Perplexing and Bursting Guide to Changing Solution Name in Visual Studio 2017

Step 1: Rename the Solution Folder

As developers, there are times when we have to change the name of our solution or project because of rebranding or project requirements. However, changing the name of the solution is not just about renaming the folder. It involves changing several settings in Visual Studio for successful compilation and debugging. So, let’s get started on this perplexing journey.

To begin, we need to rename the solution folder. But wait, where do we do this? The answer is File Explorer! You can do this by right-clicking on the folder, selecting Properties, and renaming it to your desired name.

Step 2: Rename the Solution File

After giving the solution folder a brand new name, we also need to rename the solution file with the .sln extension. To accomplish this, we need to open the solution file in Visual Studio 2017, right-click on the solution file name in the Solution Explorer, and select the rename option.

Step 3: Rename the Project Files

The next step in this burly process is to rename the project files with the .csproj extension for each project in the solution. But how do we do it?? Fear not my dear friend, we can right-click on the project name in the Solution Explorer, select the rename option and rename the project file.

Step 4: Update the Namespaces

After we have renamed the project files, the next step is to update the namespace for all the projects. But hang on there, how do we do it?? We can open the project file, select the Properties tab, and change the Assembly name and Default namespace fields to the new name.

Step 5: Update References

If your solution has project references, then you need to update them as well. Simple, right? Just right-click on the project name in the Solution Explorer, select the Add References option, and browse for the new project file.

Step 6: Build and Test the Solution

After making all the changes and updating the references, now comes the most crucial step – building and testing the solution. Press F6 or select the Build option from the menu to check if everything runs smoothly.

Step 7: Commit the Changes to Version Control

Finally, after updating and testing the solution, you need to commit the changes to your version control system so that your team members can get the updated changes.

Conclusion:

Changing the Solution name in Visual Studio 2017 is a perplexing and challenging process. It’s not just about renaming folders and files. It also involves updating the namespaces, references, and testing the solution to make sure everything works correctly. But by following these steps, you can successfully change the solution name with ease. Remember to always commit changes to source control to avoid any conflicts with your team members.