Abstract
Sometimes, the most profound lessons come from the simplest examples. Have you ever wondered how the .NET runtime works?
Prepare for a unique journey into the intricacies of .NET. We’ll dissect the world’s smallest C# program, unlocking deep insights into the compilation and execution of .NET applications.
Equipped with powerful tools, including DotPeek, ProcMon, and WinDbg, we’ll explore the .NET runtime environment and its inner workings like never before, uncovering fundamental principles that support the .NET applications we develop.
Whether you’re new to .NET, aiming to build a strong foundation, or a seasoned developer eager to deepen your appreciation for the framework’s core mechanics, this session promises to transform your perspective on C# and .NET programming.
We will delve into advanced topics, providing a rare glimpse into how .NET works. These insights will open an intriguing window into the framework you use daily, enriching your understanding, sparking your curiosity, and empowering you to tackle more complex tasks.
Join Steve for an engaging and insightful journey through the essence of. NET. This demo-heavy session promises to transform your perspective on C # and .NET programming, proving that even the smallest programs can teach us invaluable lessons and impact our approach to software development.
Resources
- ECMA 334
- ECMA 335
- ECMA 335 Addendum
- Roslyn GitHub Repository
- .NET SDK GitHub Repository
- .NET Runtime GitHub Repository
- MsBuild GitHub Repository
- Blog Post: Creating, Inspecting and Decompiling the World’s (Nearly) Smallest C# Program
- Blog Post: A Brief Introduction to the .NET Muxer (aka dotnet.exe)
- Blog Post: How dotnet.exe resolves and loads the hostfxr library – Exploring the .NET muxer
- Simon Cooper: Anatomy of a .NET Assembly – PE Headers (start of series)
Tools
- JetBrains dotPeek
- PETree – Kirill Osenkov
- HxD Hex Editor
- WinDbg
- Process Monitor
- MSBuild Structured Log Viewer
- SharpLab.io
Presented At
- NDC London 2025 (January 29th 2025 – Room 2)