.NET Framework: Difference between revisions

Revision as of 20:21, 30 March 2025

Revision as of 01:31, 31 March 2025

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===Assemblies===

Compiled CILCLI code is stored in [[assembly (CLI)|CLI assemblies]]. As mandated by the specification, assemblies are stored in [[Portable Executable]] (PE) file format, common on Windows platform for all ''[[dynamic-link library]]'' (DLL) and ''executable'' [[EXE]] files. Each assembly consists of one or more files, one of which must contain a manifest bearing the [[metadata]] for the assembly. The complete name of an assembly (not to be confused with the file name on disk) contains its simple text name, version number, culture, and [[public key]] token. Assemblies are considered equivalent if they share the same complete name.

A private key can also be used by the creator of the assembly for [[strong name|strong naming]]. The public key token determines the real-world identity of the assembly's signer. Only those knowing their private key (of the double-key cryptography system) can sign assemblies that have the same strong name as a prior version assembly. Strong naming is required to add assemblies to [[Global Assembly Cache]].