Microsoft releasing the Source Code for .Net Framework Libraries

Today Microsoft announced their plans to release the source code for the .NET framework libraries with the release of .NET 3.5 and VS 2008. Soon we will be able to download the .NET Framework source libraries via a standalone install and use any text editor to browse it locally. The plan is also to provide integrated debugging support of it within VS 2008.

Wow, how things have changed over time!

No so long ago I would have told you something like this is just a pipe dream. Sharing the source code and debugger integration is going to be really valuable for .any .NET developers. And being able to step through and review the source will allow us to get deeper understanding of the implementations of the libraries and as a result generating better implementations and quicker problem resolution.

I am looking forward to utilizing this unexpected gift from Microsoft.