> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.elsaworkflows.io/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.elsaworkflows.io/getting-started/prerequisites.md).

# Prerequisites

Before you can start creating your own workflow server using Elsa, there are a few prerequisites to consider.

### .NET <a href="#dotnet" id="dotnet"></a>

* .NET SDK (Version 8 or higher)
* A code editor (e.g., Visual Studio, Visual Studio Code, Rider)
* Basic knowledge of C# and ASP.NET Core and optionally Blazor for extending Elsa Studio

### Docker <a href="#docker" id="docker"></a>

In order to be able to run the various prebuilt Docker images hosting Elsa Server, Elsa Studio and Elsa Server + Studio, you will need to have [Docker for Desktop](https://www.docker.com/products/docker-desktop/) (or a similar tool) installed.