How To Migrate From .NET Framework To .NET Core: A Detailed Guide

Businesses looking to upgrade frameworks often consider switching from Microsoft’s popular Framework to its recent offering, Core.

Since its introduction, .NET Core has become preferable for various software developers due to its improved performance and innovative features. An estimated 55% of developers currently prefer it over its counterpart, the .NET Framework, as more developers appreciate its ability to simplify software development across platforms.

Application migration of net framework .net core may cause many to be navigated before beginning the migration. This post covered the reasons, challenges and key differences between the .net framework and the .net Core. Let’s discuss one by one:- 

Why Consider Migrating From .Net Framework To .Net Core

Most people have observed the .NET Framework for several years, more than 19 years. It has been used as their default platform for various purposes, including Windows desktop, web server, and desktop applications. It’s a fantastic environment, but it is only suitable for some. The main issue is that it restricts the applications exclusively to Windows and prevents you from using the same software on other platforms like macOS and Linux. 

There are many advantages that a particular platform can bring with itself. On the other hand, some fundamental limitations make it necessary to change. Developers may be migrating due to reasons such as:

• To experience improved performance and robust scaling.
• More security with the new Framework and adhering to strict compliance requirements.
• New platforms offer new features with additional functions.
• It is essential to understand modernity in the world of development.
• You can be assured of future-proofing applications you create. In this case, it is possible to think about migrating to .NET Core based on several reasons we’ve highlighted in this article:

High Scalability

You can run an application on multiple computers simultaneously. This is essential, especially with applications requiring greater computing power or sites crowded with users. Anyone who has used cloud-related services like Microsoft Azure and Amazon Web Services can relate to this and understand how efficient the applications are.

.NET Core allows you to create high-powered and efficient applications with less effort. Thinking about load balancers and servers is less stressful as they can be set up quickly to your requirements.

Non-Blocking

Non-blocking codes are crucial to making a high-speed app smooth and without hiccups, without overloading servers or making other programs slow down their operation. This code will ensure that your application stays locked up when it is tasked with processing data transfer requests. These requests are processed independently, without interference from others, and resources are released as necessary.

With the latest group of APIs included in .NET Core, developers can now structure and create applications that are not blocking. The same APIs have been used in earlier .NET versions. 

Containers & Microservices

Containers enable application packaging and deployment. .Net Core can be used with containers to facilitate app packing and deployment. It also supports microservices and .NET Core. Containers are a software architecture that breaks down applications into smaller, manageable components. However, a move like this could be more complex than having more extensive software. Smaller pieces are easier to manage than massive ones.

The Non-Deterministic Finalizers

Finalizers clean the memory when objects are deleted. In some cases, they could fail to function smoothly or even run. Many developers fear implementing them because they cannot predict their performance. With .NET Core, finalizers are no longer used.

The most suitable option in evaluating the switch from .NET Framework to .NET Core from .NET Framework is ASP.NET outsourcing of development.

.NET Core and .NET Framework: Key Distinctions

.NET Core and .NET Framework are software development frameworks developed by Microsoft to help developers build and run applications using Microsoft’s Microsoft .NET platform. However, there are some key differences to take into account:

• Multi-platform support: .NET Core is designed explicitly for cross-platform running on Windows, macOS, and Linux. In addition, the .NET Framework primarily targets Windows.

• Deployment Model: .NET Core applications can be installed as self-contained executables or framework-dependent applications, whereas .NET Framework applications require the Framework installed on the target computer.
• Scalability and performance: .NET Core is known for its performance enhancements and scalability compared to .NET Framework. It is smaller in size and can benefit from various performance optimizations. 

• Community-driven and open-source: .NET Core is open-source and developed with the community via GitHub. However, the .NET Framework is primarily created and managed by Microsoft.

• New features .NET Core introduced several new features, including assistance for .NET Standard, lightweight and modular deployment, better containerization, and integrated support for microservices.

• Updates and versioning: The .NET Framework follows a unidirectional versioning process, and updates are based on the framework’s version. However, .NET Core follows a more flexible and regular release cycle, with distinct versioning of its components. Direction for the future .NET Core will be the base for future .NET development. It is continuously developed and expanded to include .NET 5, .NET 6, and above, while the .NET Framework is currently in maintenance mode, with no significant updates scheduled.

• Technologies that .NET Core doesn’t accept: Various technologies not included in .NET Core pose potential problems during the migration. Focusing on the most critical components and tools is essential throughout the process.

• Application domains: With .NET Core, domains for applications that were previously used to distinguish distinct applications within the same system are no longer supported. Instead, it would help to consider using the AssemblyLoadContext class to load assemblies dynamically.

• Remoting: .NET Remoting, a technology that allows inter-application communication, is not supported in .NET Core due to the absence of application domains. Consider alternatives like web services and other communication technologies, such as gRPC.

• Security for access codes (CAS): Security for Code Access (CAS) is a security feature of the .NET Framework but is not included as a default feature for .NET Core. But you can manage the permissions of assemblies using several options: one-words

• Implement role-based security: Utilize resource-based security to provide greater control. Use an external authorization service for central authorization management.

• LINQ to SQL (LINQ2SQL): LINQ in SQL is a .NET Framework component for managing data in relational form as objects, but it is not available within .NET Core. Instead, consider using Entity Framework Core to get similar functionality, including supporting transactions, views, and stored procedures.

If you know the limitations and options for these technologies, you can manage the migration process more efficiently and ensure an efficient migration into .NET Core.

A Detailed Step-By-Step Procedure to Convert .NET Framework to .NET Core

STEP 1: Assessment & Planning

Begin by evaluating your application.

• Know its architecture, dependencies, and components. Decide what version of the .NET Framework your application is running.
• Make sure you are aware of the present status of your request.
• Find the third-party libraries you use, NuGet packages, and dependencies for your app.
• Utilize tools such as the .NET Portability Analyzer to determine whether the software is compatible with .NET Core. Fix any compatibility issues by changing the software or finding compatible alternatives.

STEP 2: Choose Target .NET Core Version

Various variations can be made using the still-new .NET Core platform. It is essential to select the correct version for the specific application. The most current version is only sometimes the ideal option.

Before deciding, consider the level of support offered for each edition and the functions available for each edition. Additionally, consider the specific capabilities and support your application requires.

STEP 3: Download & Install .NET Core SDK

It’s time to download and install the .NET Core SDK. You’ll receive all the necessary resources to build applications for the platform. You can also target various .NET Core versions and more.

STEP 4: Migrate Code & Dependencies

Transfer the dependencies and files from your previous projects to the latest. Change the project’s Framework of choice to make your code fully compatible with .NET Core, and then include any NuGet-related packages you need to.

STEP 5: Migrate NuGet Packages

Moving NuGet packages is crucial to guarantee compatibility, access new features, boost performance, and receive security updates. Right-click on References and choose “Manage NuGet Packages” in Visual Studio to migrate NuGet packages to create a seamless project.

STEP 6: Migrate Your Data

Moving data into the new project is essential if your application relies on a database. Visual Studio has easy “Export” and “Import” tools to help you with this. You can also develop an SQL script that will transfer your data using this feature, called the Generate Scripts function.

Step 7: Transfer .csproj file

Transferring your .csproj file is essential to converting the .NET Framework to .NET Core, as altering the project structure and reference is required to be compatible with the .NET Core build system. Copying the file from your previous project is the way to do this. You need to modify the file to point to the latest SDK.

STEP 8: Configure Your App for New Platform

The next step is to install your application on the new platform after you’ve moved. Csproj file. Include the following line in your configuration file to achieve this:

json

Copy code

“runtimeOptions”: {

“tfm”: “netcoreappX.Y”// Replace X and Y with the version of .NET Core you are using

}

STEP 9: Try or Deploy your Application to .NET Core

Conducting a thorough test of your application following the migration into .NET Core is crucial to creating a flawless application. These steps ensure that your application is functioning using brand-new technology. Before launching, you must ensure your application is running on .NET Core.

Testing and Quality Assurance

Perform thorough testing of the migrated components, ensuring they function correctly and satisfy security and performance requirements. Examine the performance of applications and correct any problems that may have occurred.

Deployment

Create a deployment plan for your .NET Core application. Find out the host environment (e.g. on-premises, cloud containers).

Automate the configuration of deployment scripts and procedures.

STEP 10: Monitoring & Maintenance

Install monitoring and logging tools to monitor your application’s behaviour and performance in this new setting. Establishing maintenance plans for regular updates, security patches, and feature improvements is also possible.

What Are Some Common Challenges Occur in Shifting From .NET Framework To .NET Core

Are you considering shifting from NET Framework to .NET Core? It may cause some challenges. Some of them are as follows:- 

Library compatibility

Some libraries might not be compatible with .NET Core, prompting the necessity of finding alternatives to replace these libraries with compatible ones. Furthermore, implementing specific functions might require a different approach within the new platform.

API changes

.NET Core brings numerous improvements to the API compared to the .NET Framework. Certain application parts must be revised to conform to the new API structure.

Configuration and deployment

The deployment and configuration procedures could require modifications to ensure optimal performance for .NET Core environments. This may involve changing configuration settings, revising deployment scripts, or confirming compatibility with the latest infrastructure.

Expenses

The transition from Framework to Core requires much time and resources to test the code, refactor it, and make changes. Careful planning and resource allocation are essential during this process.

When Should You Migrate to .NET Core?

You should migrate your .net core application from leading to reduce its area. Deploying your application on devices with limited storage capacity creates a smaller footprint, an excellent option for IoT applications and any device with limited storage capacity.

Another reason to move to another platform is when using multiple platforms, such as Windows, macOS, and Linux. With .NET core, creating an application compatible with all three platforms with one single code is possible, making it easier for developers because they don’t need to maintain separate codes for each platform.

Developers can also use the latest operating systems without concern about compatibility issues for backward compatibility. When the latest features become available to .NET main libraries, developers can use them immediately.

If you’ve already transferred your application from the complete Framework and you’re not worried about it, there’s not much to do to transfer it again. However,  some breakthrough changes could require making.

To top it all off, the fact that you can migrate gives you more time until Microsoft removes support for the entire Framework. However, this stage will be far more complex and expensive. Therefore, it is an excellent moment to make the move!

Get Your System Ready For Migration .NET Framework to .NET Core

Utilizing the .NET Framework to .NET Core migration tool is an enormous job that requires meticulous preparation and implementation. Here is a checklist to use to help make sure that the process is smooth and successful.

Review APIs

Take a closer look at any APIs or dependencies specific to the platform that must be changed. Be aware that .NET Core comes with a distinct range of APIs than .NET Framework. This means that you must rework your code to use suitable alternatives. Be sure that the developers you employ employ APIs and frameworks for cross-platforms to ensure seamless interoperability wherever possible.

Create .NET Standard Files

Making the .NET Standard library before converting it to .NET Framework and then converting it to .NET Core ensures the compatibility of the code between both frameworks. It allows for the gradual transition of code, reuse, and separation of code specific to platforms, which makes the transition simpler while ensuring compatibility with the other .NET platforms and encouraging longevity of maintainability.

Employ Model Binder

When a desktop application is moved into .NET Core, its data handling has to be modified. Model Binder, a powerful tool for converting data, can be used. It is also mighty for mapping information in HTTP requests to parameters for calls to action.

Update Third-Party Libraries

Verify that the libraries from third parties you are using check if they are .NET Core compatible. Update your dependencies when you check for updates or versions that support Core. If a library cannot find a compatible version, search for alternatives or ask the library vendor for help.

Assess Compatibility

Before starting the migration process, ensure your current codebase is compatible with Core. Use the .NET portability Analyzer tool to identify any libraries, APIs, and features that .NET Core does not allow. Based on this valuable knowledge of possible issues, you can make changes.

Create Test Coverage

Use a comprehensive test program to ensure the operation and integrity of your system following the migration. Automated tests help identify problems or regressions caused by the migration process. The .NET developers test the system’s behaviour and all the essential routes.

Conclusion

In the end, the cycle of framework.net core migration is more challenging than it looks. However, it’s doable. Understanding the principle of migration and following the best methods are essential to a successful transition, regardless of the obstacles encountered.

Developers must meticulously prepare before beginning the migration process. This involves checking compatibility, API review, library update testing, planning the migration process, and testing the system. If you follow these steps carefully, developers can effortlessly move their apps to .NET Core, leveraging its advanced capabilities to the fullest potential.

If you need any assistance in transmission from .NET Framework to .NET Core, AddWeb Solution helps you throughout the process by offering comprehensive services that can be customized explicitly to clients’ requirements. The process covers the initial assessment to careful planning and seamless execution. Our engineers can assist you throughout the process. You can trust to solve any compatibility issues and let your application benefit from the potential that is .NET Core.

FAQs Related to Transit From .NET Framework to .NET Core?