C# : Specifying a location for Dll reference

Question

Hi,

In C# console application we can add dll reference by [Soln Explorer - References & then adding reference of reqd dll].

In that case,the application expects the dll to be present in same folder. if not, then application doesn't work[Throws exception].

Is it possible that, if a dll in not present in same folder as that of application[exe] , then can we have some other alternative location\path from where the program can load reqd dll then continue with its functionality.

Thanks, Amit

Answer 1

You can install the library in the GAC (Global Assembly Cache).

Answer 2

You could put all the DLLs you wish to reference in a Libraries folder or some such and reference them from there.

Project > References > Browse

Kindness,

Dan

Answer 3

As answered by Fredik you can install the assembly in GAC. There is another way to do this. You can copy the assembly to any location (Make this location as trusted, if it is on network) and handle ModuleResolve event of the type Assembly. In the callback you then have a chance to resolve the reference to the assembly.

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On second thought, I would instead suggest you to look at AssemblyResolver. It should definitely solve any issues you have with resolving assemblies.

Answer 4

You could add App.config file to your application and specify the location of the assembly:

<runtime>
    <assemblyBinding xmlns="urn:schemas-microsoft-com:asm.v1">
        <dependentAssembly> 
            <assemblyIdentity 
                name="MyAssembly" 
                culture="" 
                publicKeyToken="8968ee41e78ce97a" /> 
            <codeBase 
                version="1.0.0.0" 
                href="file://c:/some_path/myassembly.dll" />
        </dependentAssembly>
    </assemblyBinding>
</runtime>

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EDIT:

1. Might need to set the culture="neutral"
2. Verify that the token is correct if the assembly is strongly signed otherwise set publicKeyToken="null"