Class Library in .
NET
Overview
A Class Library in .NET is a collection of reusable classes, interfaces, and functions that are compiled into a
Dynamic Link Library (DLL) file. These libraries can be referenced and used in multiple applications,
promoting code reusability and modular design.
Key Features of a Class Library:
1. Code Reusability: Write once, use in many projects.
2. Encapsulation: Hides implementation details and exposes only necessary functionalities.
3. Modular Development: Breaks large projects into smaller, manageable units.
4. Versioning: You can update libraries without changing the main application code.
Creating a Class Library in .NET:
1. Open Visual Studio.
2. Go to File > New > Project.
3. Select Class Library (.NET Framework) or Class Library (.NET Core).
4. Name your project and click Create.
5. Write your classes/methods inside the generated Class1.cs file or add new classes.
Example:
public class Calculator
public int Add(int a, int b)
return a + b;
Class Library in .NET
Using a Class Library:
1. In another project, right-click on References > Add Reference.
2. Browse and select the DLL file of your class library.
3. Use the 'using' directive to import the namespace.
Example:
using MyLibrary;
Calculator calc = new Calculator();
int result = calc.Add(10, 20);
Real-Life Example:
Imagine you create a library for database operations. Instead of writing database connection code in every
app, you just use the class library where it's already implemented.