ILMerge is a powerful tool for merging multiple .NET assemblies into a single executable or library. It is widely used by developers to simplify deployment and reduce the number of files needed for an application. While ILMerge offers many benefits, there are certain best practices that should be followed to ensure optimal usage and maintainability of the merged assemblies.
First and foremost, it is important to understand the purpose of ILMerge and when it should be used. ILMerge is primarily used to merge multiple assemblies into a single file for deployment purposes. This can be especially useful for web applications, where minimizing the number of files can improve performance. However, ILMerge should not be used as a substitute for proper dependency management. If there are multiple versions of the same assembly or conflicting dependencies, it is better to resolve those issues before attempting to merge them with ILMerge.
Before merging assemblies, it is recommended to thoroughly test the application to ensure that all functionality is still working as expected. Merging assemblies can introduce unexpected issues, so it is important to have a solid understanding of the application and its dependencies before proceeding with ILMerge.
When merging assemblies, it is important to carefully consider the order in which they are merged. The order of the assemblies can affect the final merged assembly, as dependencies may need to be resolved in a certain order. It is generally recommended to start with the main application assembly and then add any dependent assemblies in the order of their dependencies.
Another best practice is to use the /targetplatform flag when merging assemblies. This flag allows ILMerge to set the target platform for the merged assembly, which can help ensure compatibility with the target system. It is also recommended to use the /targetplatform flag when using ILMerge to merge assemblies from different versions of the .NET framework.
In addition to these best practices, it is important to keep in mind that ILMerge does not support merging assemblies that have been obfuscated. If the assemblies have been obfuscated, it is recommended to either merge them before obfuscation or to use a different tool for merging, such as Costura.Fody.
Lastly, it is important to regularly review and update the merged assemblies as needed. As the application evolves, there may be changes to the dependencies or the need for different versions of certain assemblies. It is important to regularly test and update the merged assemblies to ensure the application continues to function properly.
In conclusion, ILMerge can be a valuable tool for simplifying deployment and reducing the number of files needed for an application. However, it is important to follow best practices when using ILMerge to ensure optimal usage and maintainability of the merged assemblies. Thorough testing, careful consideration of the assembly order, use of the /targetplatform flag, and regular updates are all essential for successfully using ILMerge in your development process.
