19 Oct 2023

Why Should You Upgrade to .NET Core?

What is .NET Core?

ASP .NET also known as .NET (pronounced as dot net) is a free open-source, high-performance, mainstream objective buildout platform that is maintained by Microsoft. It offers a cross-platform framework for creating modern, internet-connected, cloud-enabled applications which can run on Mac OS, Linux, and Windows Operating systems.
.Net Core is coded from scratch which makes it a fast, lightweight, and also modular framework.
This application speeds up the execution are easy to maintain and in addition, it reduces the memory footprint.

What is .NET Framework?

ASP .NET Framework (pronounced as dot net) is a development framework that is used to build and run various software applications on Windows. This framework is made up of tools, programming languages, and libraries that help in building the applications. .Net Framework is designed, developed, and managed by Microsoft. Its first beta version (1.0) was released in the year 2002. .Net Framework has various applications which allow .Net code to run on a number of other platforms or we can say it is a cross-platform software that works on Windows, Linux, Mac OS, Android, iOS and many more..Net Framework is divided into two parts or we can say it has two major parts, which are: Common Language Runtime (CLR) and Framework Class Library (FCL).
 

How to Successfully Upgrade from .NET Framework to .Net Core?

Follow the steps mentioned below to switch your application to .NET Core, ensuring a seamless transition.

• Choose the Correct Version
• Set up the Development Environment
• Create a new Project
• Migrate Code and Dependencies
• Migrate your NuGet Packages
• Transfer your Data
• Migrate your .csproj File
• Configure your app for the New Platform
• Test and deploy your app on .NET Core

1. Choose the Correct Version

Choose a suitable .NET Core version for your application, and while doing so, consider factors like – long-term support, feature availability, etc. Avoid assuming that the latest version is always the optimal choice. Instead, consider the level of support and the specific features each version offers.

2. Set up the Development Environment

Download and install the dot NET Core SDK and configure the development environment correctly. (SDK provides critical tools and libraries for creating applications.

3. Create a New Project

Generate a fresh project in your preferred development environment (Visual Studio). Choose the template that suits your migration process, like the ASP .NET Core Web Application template, to kickstart the transition.

4. Migrate Code and Dependencies

Copy your previous project’s files and dependencies to the new one. Include any required NuGet packages and update your code to be compatible with .NET Core by changing the project’s target framework.

5. Migrate your NuGet Packages

Migrate NuGet packages for a smooth project by right-clicking References and choosing “Manage NuGet Packages” in Visual Studio. Hire Dedicated .NET Developers from Positiwise if you have difficulties migrating from .NET Framework to .NET Core.

6. Transfer your Data

If your application incorporates a database, it is vital to migrate the data to the new project. Visual Studio provides convenient “Export” and “Import” features to facilitate this process. You can also utilize the Generate Scripts feature to generate an SQL script to transfer your data.

7. Migrate your .csproj File

After migrating your code, dependencies, data, etc., transfer the .csproj file. Simply copy the file from your previous project, ensuring you modify it to reference the new SDK appropriately.

8. Configure your app for the new Platform

To configure your application after migrating your .csproj file, add this line to your configuration file:

json

Copy code

"runtimeOptions": {

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

}

9. Test and Deploy your app on .NET Core

Test your application thoroughly after migrating to .NET Core to ensure it functions correctly before deploying it to users.

Why Should You Upgrade to .NET Core?

Lower costs: 

The retirement of specific components of the .NET Framework reduces costs by eliminating the need to support and maintain older components. It also allows for the use of more modern tools and technologies better suited to the current market. This can lead to cost savings and a simplified development process.

Cross-platform compatibility: 

.NET Core can run on multiple operating systems like – Windows, Linux, and macOS. This .Net Core’s feature allows you to develop applications that can be deployed on various devices. Thus eliminating the need to maintain multiple codebases and tailor applications for different platforms, saving time and cost.

Improved scalability: 

The lighter runtime environment of .NET Core enhances application scalability in cloud environments. With fewer resources required to run applications, more resources are available for processing requests, leading to better scalability and reduced latency. 

Increased security: 

.NET Core’s focus on the latest encryption standards ensures data privacy and security. By utilizing .NET Core’s security protocols, organizations can protect sensitive data and prevent unauthorized access & malicious attacks.

Improved performance: 

Enhanced application performance enables faster and more efficient services, improving customer experience and optimizing operations. Strategies like – componentization, virtualization, caching, load balancing, database optimization, etc., contribute to better performance.

Built-in cloud features: 

.NET Core encompasses built-in cloud features that enable deployment in popular cloud environments like – Azure, AWS, and GCP. This provides scalability, flexibility, and access to advanced cloud-based services, ensuring reliable and secure deployments without compatibility issues.

Migration with minimal disruption: 

Migration from Framework to Core can be done with minimal disruption to operations and a clear roadmap for future development. The migration process is simple due to language compatibility and the ability to use many of the same tools. A clear roadmap helps organizations plan their migration process and stay up-to-date with current trends and technologies.

Conclusion on Switch from .NET Framework to .NET Core

In conclusion, migrating from dot NET Framework to dot NET Core offers “n” number of advantages, such as cost savings, access to a broader talent pool, enhanced product innovation, cross-platform compatibility, improved scalability, greater flexibility, increased security, improved performance, and built-in cloud features.To migrate successfully from .NET Framework to .NET Core, developers should assess compatibility, review APIs, update libraries, establish test coverage, utilize migration tools, plan the migration process, and thoroughly test the migrated system. By following these steps & best practices, developers can seamlessly transition their applications to .NET Core & capitalize on its advanced capabilities.