For .NET development, the ArcObjects SDK 10.8 requires (Community, Professional, or Enterprise editions). Visual Studio 2015 was deprecated at ArcGIS 10.7, and support has been removed for 10.8.
Avoid “free download” websites offering the SDK. They often contain outdated, tampered, or malware-infected files. Esri vigorously protects its IP; unauthorized distribution violates the EULA.
Before diving into the download process, it's essential to understand what the ArcObjects SDK actually provides. The SDK includes: