Native API

The Native API is the programming interface ( API), used by the kernel of Windows NT - based operating systems. In contrast to the Win32 Application Programming the Native API is almost entirely undocumented.

Furthermore, it serves for communication between the subsystems with the kernel, but is also required in situations in which the subsystems are not available, such as at system start or device drivers. Some functions of the Native API provided via the library ntdll.dll in user mode, so they are also normal programs. The Native API provides some features that are not available in the Win32 API.

The Driver Development Kit provides the undocumented possibility to develop applications specifically for the Native API. This can not be performed and are used only in rare situations, such as checking the system partition for errors during boot under normal circumstances under Windows.