Compiling Managed C

Overview

Microsoft’s .NET Framework defines an environment that supports the development and execution of highly distributed, component-based applications. It enables differing computer languages to work together and provides for security, program portability, and a common programming model for the Windows platform. Although the .NET Framework is a relatively recent addition to computing, it is an environment in which many C++ programmers will likely be working in the near future.

Microsoft’s .NET Framework provides a managed environment that oversees program execution. A program targeted for the .NET Framework is not compiled into executable object code. Rather, it is compiled into Microsoft Intermediate Language (MSIL), which is then executed under the control of the Common Language Runtime (CLR). Managed execution is the mechanism that supports the key advantages offered by the .NET Framework.

To take advantage of .NET managed execution, it is necessary for a C++ program to use a set of nonstandard, extended keywords and preprocessor directives that have been defined by Microsoft. It is important to understand that these extensions are not defined by ANSI/ISO Standard C++. Thus, code in which they are used is non-portable to other environments.

It is far beyond the scope of this book to describe the .NET Framework or the C++ programming techniques necessary to utilize it. However, a brief synopsis of the .NET managed extensions to C++ is given here for the benefit of those programmers working in the .NET environment. A basic understanding of the .NET Framework is assumed.