Get Started with .NET Core in Visual Studio 2019

If you’re looking to build powerful and scalable applications that run on Windows, Linux, and macOS, .NET Core is the cross-platform framework for you. With flexible development options, easy deployment using containers, and modern web APIs, it’s a great choice for developers of all levels. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to add .NET Core to your development environment using Visual Studio 2019:

1. Install Visual Studio 2019

To get started, download and install Visual Studio 2019 from the official website. Choose from several editions, including Community, Professional, and Enterprise, depending on your needs. The installation process is straightforward, including various components and workloads you can customize based on your preferences.

2. Update Visual Studio 2019

After installing Visual Studio 2019, check for updates to ensure you have the latest version. Go to the Help menu, select Check for Updates, and download and install any available updates. Keeping your development environment up-to-date is essential to benefit from new features and bug fixes.

3. Install .NET Core SDK

To create, build, and deploy .NET Core applications, you need to install the .NET Core SDK, which includes the runtime, libraries, and tools. Download the SDK from the official .NET Core website and select the latest version. Run the installer on your machine and choose your preferred options, including installation folder, runtime, and developer workload. Then, verify the SDK is installed correctly by opening a command prompt and typing “dotnet –version.”

4. Create a .NET Core project in Visual Studio

With Visual Studio 2019 and the .NET Core SDK, you can create your first .NET Core project. Open Visual Studio, select File -> New Project, and choose the .NET Core template that suits your needs, such as ASP.NET Core Web Application or Console Application. Set the project name, location, options, and target framework. Click Create, and Visual Studio generates the project files and solution explorer, where you can start coding and testing your .NET Core application.

5. Publish a .NET Core application

Finally, when you’re ready to deploy your .NET Core application, use the Publish command in Visual Studio. This process creates a standalone executable file that includes all the required libraries and dependencies to run. Select the target platform, deployment options, and deployment path for your application, and any configuration settings or environment variables. Once published, test your .NET Core application and use Visual Studio’s remote debugging capabilities to troubleshoot any issues.

In conclusion, adding .NET Core to Visual Studio 2019 is a straightforward process that requires a few steps. Follow this guide, and you’ll be building and deploying powerful and scalable .NET Core applications on any platform and device in no time. Happy coding!