Tip 1 - .NET Assembly Add to GAC using Visual Studio

Introduction

This tip provides a simple explanation of how to install a DLL into the Global Assembly Cache (GAC).

• The Global Assembly Cache provides a solution to the problem of duplicated DLLs.
• The GAC is a machine-wide repository for shared assemblies.
• Once an assembly is added to the GAC, it is available to all applications that wish to use it.

To use DLL Assembly in Biztalk Orchestration, you need the following:

1. Add DLL To Gac
2. Any Assembly added to Gac must have a strong name

• Strong-naming an assembly creates a unique identity for the assembly.
• This can prevent assembly conflicts.

Getting Started

A. Assembly Strong Name

1. Open Visual Studio, create C# Class Library
2. Add any code you need
3. Go to project Properties

   

4. Open Signing Tab, check sign the assembly, choose strong name key.

   

5. Create a new strong name: you can protect with password and signature algorithm.

   

B. Assembly Add To Gac

1. From project properties: go to Build Events Tab, Click Edit Post build.

   

2. Write Command line using GAC Tool that adds assembly to Gac.
   • Find the path of gacutil:

     %ProgramFiles%\Microsoft SDKs\Windows\v8.0A\bin\NETFX 4.0 Tools\gacutil.exe

   • Specify the targetpath (DLL Path)
   • For more information about GAC Tool, you need to follow this article.

   

3. The last step is to build the DLL, show in output window, how DLL is successfully added to GAC.

Other Approach: Using CMD "Command Prompt"

• Run command prompt as administrator.
• Write the same CMD command before, but redirect to DLL folder.
• It will register assembly to Gac.