How to view code for classes in the .NET library?

Question

I would like to look at the code for some of the classes in the .NET library. I find functions by using intellisense and just reading the tooltips that come up when I select different items.

One example is the Contains method that you can use on arrays to search for a given string. I just happened to stumble upon that while working on an exercise to learn. I'm assuming it's a simple method that just iterates through the array and checks for the string at each element.

If I wanted to take a look at this code, or code for any other class in .NET, how would I go about it? I have Visual Studio 2008.

Answer 1

Use .NET Reflector

Answer 2

Reflector is the way to go.

.NET Framework 3.5 BCL source code is available through debug symbols (reference license).

SSCLI (Rotor) and Mono source code can be relevant too.

Answer 3

Either Reflector (for ease of use and universal application) or Microsoft's symbol server for the real thing.