Enabling IIS Express in Visual Studio 2017: A Perplexing Process

The process of enabling IIS Express in Visual Studio 2017 may seem like a straightforward task, but it is not without its complexities. While IIS Express comes with the Visual Studio 2017 package by default, it still requires some considerable effort to enable it successfully for your web application testing and deployment purposes. In this article, we will guide you through this perplexing procedure, step by step.

Step 1 – Open The Project

Before you can even think about enabling IIS Express, you need to open your project in Visual Studio 2017. Once you have done that, navigate to the “Solution Explorer” panel on the right side of your screen. How hard can that be, right?

Step 2 – Right-Click on the Project

Now the real fun begins. Right-clicking on the project will bring up an array of menu options, each one more confusing than the next. Fear not, weary traveler, for you must trudge through the labyrinthine options and proceed to the “Properties” selection, as shown in the picture below. May the odds be ever in your favor.

Step 3 – Configure the Project Properties

You made it this far; don’t lose hope now. After clicking on the “Properties” option, a window will suddenly appear, filled with seemingly endless possibilities. You must now select the “Web” tab on the left side of the screen. Choose wisely.

Step 4 – Choose the Local IIS Option

Oh, what a tangled web we weave; select the “Server” option, and you will be greeted with two equally likely options: IIS Express and Local IIS. By default, IIS Express will be selected, but you must now choose the “Local IIS” option, and start specifying the “Project URL” and “Start URL” fields. How thrilling!

Step 5 – Create Your Virtual Directory

Do not falter now, my intrepid traveler. Your mission is nearly complete, but not quite. After configuring the project properties, click the “Create Virtual Directory” button, which will magically create a virtual directory for your project in IIS. Voila!

Step 6 – Save Your Changes

Congratulations, you have made it to the final step! Now, simply click on the “Save” button to save your changes, and you can begin debugging your project. Press the “F5” button or select the “Debug” menu option, then choose “Start Debugging.” Well done, brave soul!

Conclusion

Enabling IIS Express in Visual Studio may seem like a daunting task, but with these steps, you are well on your way to success. May the odds be ever in your favor, young developer.