Can you compile code on the fly in Silverlight?

Question

I should clarify that I am looking for a client-side solution.

Alternatively, is there a C# compiler written in managed code?

Answer 1

On the Client

Take a look at the Dynamic Language Runtime if you're using Silverlight 2.0:

• http://www.silverlightexamples.net/post/Execute-Code-String-at-Runtime-with-Silverlight-20-DLR.aspx
• http://silverlight.net/learn/dynamiclanguages.aspx

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Server or Client with Full Trust

This example uses the Microsoft.CSharp.CSharpCodeProvider, compiles on the server, and sends the assembly down to the client:

• http://www.cnblogs.com/baggiojing/archive/2008/11/03/1325297.html

There's a VB equivalent. They allow you to compile to disk or in memory. In most cases you can't use them on the client because they require full trust.

Other examples:

• http://blogs.microsoft.co.il/blogs/alex_golesh/archive/2007/12/20/how-to-compile-c-3-0-code-dynamically.aspx
• http://www.developerfusion.com/article/4529/using-net-to-make-your-application-scriptable/3/

Silverlight with full trust:

• http://blogs.microsoft.co.il/blogs/tamir/archive/2008/04/27/how-to-make-silverlight-be-air.aspx
• http://www.silverlightshow.net/items/Silverlight-Running-standalone-full-trust-applications.aspx