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Fundamentals of Building .NET 5 Desktop Applications

Thomas Claudius Huber

To build a desktop app with .NET and C#, you can choose between different UI frameworks. This course teaches you what UI frameworks you can use and how to build .NET desktop apps for Windows with WinUI, WPF, and Windows Forms.

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To build a desktop app with .NET and C#, you can choose between different UI frameworks. This course teaches you what UI frameworks you can use and how to build .NET desktop apps for Windows with WinUI, WPF, and Windows Forms.

To build desktop applications with .NET and C#, you can choose between different UI frameworks. In this course, Fundamentals of Building .NET 5 Desktop Applications, you’ll learn to create Windows desktop apps with WinUI, WPF, and Windows Forms. First, you’ll explore the different UI frameworks that you can use to build Windows desktop apps and cross-platform desktop apps with .NET and C#. Next, you’ll learn how to choose a UI framework for your project. Finally, you’ll learn how to build Windows desktop apps with WinUI, WPF, and Windows Forms, and while building these apps you'll learn about important concepts for desktop apps like XAML, layout, the MVVM pattern, and data binding. When you’re finished with this course, you’ll have the skills and knowledge of the .NET UI frameworks that are needed to build your own Windows desktop applications with .NET and C#.

This course is no longer available. Find something similar by browsing:
C# WinUI WPF Windows Forms XAML MVVM Pattern Data Binding

What's inside

Syllabus

Course Overview
Knowing the UI Frameworks for .NET Desktop Apps
Creating Your First WinUI App
Building Your First WPF App
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Traffic lights

Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Teaches the fundamentals of building .NET 5 desktop applications, including core concepts such as XAML, layout, the MVVM pattern, and data binding
Suitable for beginners who want to build desktop applications with .NET and C#
Covers the different UI frameworks available for building Windows desktop apps, including WinUI, WPF, and Windows Forms
Provides hands-on experience in building desktop apps with each UI framework
Taught by Thomas Claudius Huber, an experienced instructor in .NET and desktop development
May not be suitable for learners who already have experience with UI frameworks or desktop development

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Reviews summary

Foundational .net desktop ui frameworks overview

According to learners, this course offers a largely positive overview of building desktop applications with .NET and C#. Students praise its ability to provide a solid introduction to various UI frameworks, including WinUI, WPF, and Windows Forms. Many found the explanations of core concepts like XAML, layout, MVVM pattern, and data binding to be particularly clear and helpful. It is widely considered ideal for beginners or those new to .NET desktop development. However, some learners noted that the course provides breadth over depth for individual frameworks and, being based on .NET 5, may require learners to consider newer .NET versions.
Highly suitable for those new to .NET desktop development.
"As a beginner to .NET desktop applications, I found the course structure and pacing just right to get started."
"If you're new to desktop apps in .NET, this course provides a gentle but thorough entry into the ecosystem."
"I had some C# experience but was new to UI development, and this course guided me exceptionally well."
Features useful hands-on coding examples and projects.
"The hands-on coding and projects are the strongest part of the course for me, making concepts tangible."
"Building the sample apps alongside the instructor really solidified my learning and confidence in applying skills."
"I found the practical demonstrations invaluable for applying the concepts taught into real-world scenarios."
Clearly explains essential concepts like XAML and MVVM.
"The explanations of XAML, layout, and MVVM were particularly helpful for my understanding and application."
"I finally grasped data binding and the MVVM pattern effectively thanks to the practical examples provided."
"It builds a solid foundation, especially for understanding UI patterns critical for desktop application development."
Offers a wide-ranging introduction to .NET UI frameworks.
"I appreciate how it covers WinUI, WPF, and Windows Forms, giving a broad perspective on choices."
"It's a fantastic starting point to understand the different options for building desktop apps with .NET and C#."
"This course helped me see the landscape of .NET desktop development clearly, which was invaluable."
Covers many frameworks but lacks deep dives; uses older .NET 5.
"While comprehensive, I wish it went deeper into one or two frameworks, not just a surface-level of all three."
"I found it to be a good overview, but I'll definitely need more advanced courses for specific frameworks."
"The use of .NET 5 is a bit outdated now, I hope it gets an update to a newer version like .NET 8 soon."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Fundamentals of Building .NET 5 Desktop Applications with these activities:
Practice C# coding basics
Refresh your understanding of C# coding basics, such as data types, variables, operators, and control flow, to ensure a strong foundation for building desktop apps in .NET.
Show steps
  • Review online resources and tutorials on C# basics.
  • Practice writing simple C# programs.
  • Complete coding challenges or exercises.
Review WPF basics
Review key WPF concepts, such as XAML, data binding, and event handling, to refresh your understanding and prepare for building .NET desktop apps.
Browse courses on WPF
Show steps
  • Review XAML syntax and structure
  • Practice creating simple WPF applications using basic controls
  • Explore data binding and MVVM pattern
  • Implement event handling and commands
Review course notes and assignments
Regularly review your course notes, assignments, and quizzes to reinforce your understanding of the concepts covered in the course and identify areas that need further attention.
Show steps
  • Go through your course notes after each lesson.
  • Review completed assignments and quizzes.
  • Identify concepts that you need to revisit.
Ten other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all 13 activities
Explore Windows Forms tutorials
Enhance your understanding of Windows Forms by following online tutorials, deepening your knowledge and expanding your practical skills.
Browse courses on Windows Forms
Show steps
  • Search for video or written tutorials on Windows Forms
  • Follow tutorials to create sample applications
  • Experiment with different controls and features
Practice layout and styling in XAML
Complete exercises that focus on layout and styling in XAML to improve your proficiency in designing user interfaces for your .NET desktop apps.
Browse courses on XAML
Show steps
  • Create a new XAML file and define the layout using Grid, StackPanel, and DockPanel.
  • Apply styles to controls using Brushes, Fonts, and Margins.
  • Practice creating custom controls and templates.
Build a simple WinUI app
Apply your understanding of WinUI by creating a practical application, reinforcing core concepts and gaining hands-on experience.
Browse courses on WinUI
Show steps
  • Design the UI using XAML
  • Implement data binding and event handling
  • Test and debug the application
Build a simple WinForms app
Create a simple WinForms app to gain hands-on experience with the framework and reinforce your understanding of the concepts covered in the course.
Browse courses on Windows Forms
Show steps
  • Create a new WinForms project in Visual Studio.
  • Design the user interface using the Form Designer.
  • Write code to handle user input and perform calculations.
  • Test and debug your app to ensure it works correctly.
Volunteer as a mentor in a programming community
By mentoring others in a programming community, you can reinforce your understanding of the course material while helping others learn and develop their skills in a supportive environment.
Show steps
  • Join a programming community or online forum.
  • Offer your help to beginner programmers.
  • Answer questions and provide guidance.
Explore the MVVM pattern for data binding
Follow online tutorials and documentation to learn about the MVVM pattern for data binding in .NET desktop apps, which will enhance your ability to create maintainable and testable applications.
Browse courses on MVVM Pattern
Show steps
  • Understand the principles of the MVVM pattern and its benefits.
  • Implement data binding using ViewModels and data models.
  • Practice using commands and events for user interaction.
Solve XAML code challenges
Sharpen your XAML skills by solving coding challenges, improving your understanding of syntax, structure, and best practices.
Browse courses on XAML
Show steps
  • Find online XAML coding challenges
  • Attempt to solve challenges самостоятельно
  • Review solutions and learn from successful approaches
Develop a prototype for a desktop app
Design and build a prototype for a desktop app using the knowledge and skills acquired in the course to demonstrate your understanding and proficiency in creating functional Windows desktop applications.
Browse courses on Prototyping
Show steps
  • Define the scope and requirements of your app.
  • Create a UI prototype using wireframing tools or design software.
  • Implement basic functionality using .NET and C#.
  • Test and refine your prototype to ensure it meets the requirements.
Build a desktop app that solves a personal need
Create a desktop application that addresses a personal need or problem to apply your knowledge and skills in a practical setting, fostering problem-solving abilities and project management experience.
Show steps
  • Identify a personal need or problem that can be solved with a desktop app.
  • Design and prototype the app.
  • Implement the app using .NET and C#.
  • Test and refine the app.
Develop a cross-platform desktop application
Consolidate your knowledge by creating a cross-platform desktop application that utilizes multiple UI frameworks, demonstrating proficiency in integrating different technologies.
Browse courses on Cross-Platform
Show steps
  • Choose a cross-platform UI framework
  • Design and implement the application logic
  • Test and deploy the application on different platforms

Career center

Learners who complete Fundamentals of Building .NET 5 Desktop Applications will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Computer and Information Systems Manager
Computer and Information Systems Managers plan, implement, and oversee the use of computer and information systems in organizations. This course would be useful for those looking to become a Computer and Information Systems Manager as it covers how to build Windows desktop apps with WinUI, WPF, and Windows Forms, which are commonly used in the management and maintenance of computer and information systems.
See salaries and explore the career path for Computer and Information Systems Manager
Information Security Analyst
Information Security Analysts plan and implement security measures to protect information systems. This course would be useful for those looking to become an Information Security Analyst as it covers how to build Windows desktop apps with WinUI, WPF, and Windows Forms, which are commonly used in the implementation and maintenance of information security systems.
See salaries and explore the career path for Information Security Analyst
Software Test Engineer
Software Test Engineers test and evaluate software systems. This course would be useful for those looking to become a Software Test Engineer as it covers how to build Windows desktop apps with WinUI, WPF, and Windows Forms, which are commonly used in the testing and evaluation of software systems.
See salaries and explore the career path for Software Test Engineer
User Interface Designer
User Interface Designers create and design the user interfaces for software applications. This course would be useful for those looking to become a User Interface Designer as it covers how to build Windows desktop apps with WinUI, WPF, and Windows Forms, which are widely used in the design of user interfaces.
See salaries and explore the career path for User Interface Designer
Computer Systems Analyst
Computer Systems Analysts analyze and design computer systems. This course would be useful for those looking to become a Computer Systems Analyst, as it covers how to build Windows desktop apps with WinUI, WPF, and Windows Forms, which are commonly used in the analysis and design of computer systems.
See salaries and explore the career path for Computer Systems Analyst
Information Systems Manager
Information Systems Managers plan, implement, and oversee the use of information systems in organizations. This course would be useful for those looking to become an Information Systems Manager as it covers how to build Windows desktop apps with WinUI, WPF, and Windows Forms, which are commonly used in the implementation and maintenance of information systems.
See salaries and explore the career path for Information Systems Manager
Computer Network Architect
Computer Network Architects design and oversee the implementation of computer networks. This course would be useful for those looking to become a Computer Network Architect as it covers how to build Windows desktop apps with WinUI, WPF, and Windows Forms, which are commonly used in the design and implementation of computer networks.
See salaries and explore the career path for Computer Network Architect
Systems Analyst
Systems Analysts analyze and design computer systems. This course may be helpful for those looking to become a Systems Analyst as it provides the skills and knowledge needed to build Windows desktop applications with .NET and C#, which are common in business environments.
See salaries and explore the career path for Systems Analyst
Software Architect
Software Architects design and oversee the development of software systems. This course may be of use to those looking to become a Software Architect, as it provides the skills and knowledge needed to build Windows desktop applications with .NET and C#, which are common in the software development industry.
See salaries and explore the career path for Software Architect
Network Systems Administrator
Network Systems Administrators plan, implement, and oversee the use of computer networks. This course may be useful for those looking to become a Network Systems Administrator as it covers how to build Windows desktop apps with WinUI, WPF, and Windows Forms, which are commonly used in the management and maintenance of computer networks.
See salaries and explore the career path for Network Systems Administrator
Software Developer
Software Developers design, develop, and maintain computer software. This course may be useful for those looking to get into this field as it provides the skills and knowledge needed to build Windows desktop applications with .NET and C#, which are commonly used by Software Developers.
See salaries and explore the career path for Software Developer
Computer Programmer
Computer Programmers write and maintain the code that makes software work. This course would be useful to those looking to become a Computer Programmer as it focuses on how to build Windows desktop apps with .NET and C#, which are widely used in the software development industry.
See salaries and explore the career path for Computer Programmer
Web Developer
Web Developers create and maintain websites. While this course focuses on building Windows desktop apps, the skills and knowledge gained, such as understanding XAML, layout, and data binding, can also be applied to web development.
See salaries and explore the career path for Web Developer
Database Administrator
Database Administrators manage and maintain databases. This course may be of some use to those looking to become a Database Administrator, as it covers concepts like data binding, which is used in managing and accessing data in databases.
See salaries and explore the career path for Database Administrator
Technical Writer
Technical Writers create and maintain technical documentation. This course may be of some use to those looking to become a Technical Writer, as it covers concepts like XAML, layout, and data binding, which are used in the creation and maintenance of technical documentation.
See salaries and explore the career path for Technical Writer

Reading list

We've selected seven books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Fundamentals of Building .NET 5 Desktop Applications.
Cover image
Windows Runtime via C#
Save
This in-depth guide to the Common Language Runtime (CLR) provides a comprehensive understanding of the underlying principles of .NET development, including the execution process and memory management.
Windows Runtime via C# (Developer Reference)
Kindle Edition
$$
Cover image
Visual C# 2010 Recipes
Save
This advanced guide to WPF explores advanced techniques, performance optimization, and interoperability with other technologies, providing valuable insights for experienced developers.
Visual C# 2010 Recipes: A Problem-Solution Approach...
Paperback
$$
Visual C# 2010 Recipes: A Problem-Solution Approach...
Kindle Edition
$$
Cover image
Windows 8. 1 Apps with XAML and C# Sams Teach...
Save
This comprehensive reference guide to WPF 4 covers advanced topics and best practices, providing a valuable resource for experienced developers.
Windows 8.1 Apps with XAML and C# Sams Teach...
Kindle Edition
$$
Cover image
Programming WPF
Save
This practical guide offers a comprehensive overview of Windows Forms, providing step-by-step instructions and code examples to help you create robust desktop applications.
Programming WPF
Paperback
Check
Programming WPF
Kindle Edition
Check
Cover image
User Interfaces in VB . Net
Save
This beginner-friendly guide to Windows Forms provides a solid foundation for building simple desktop applications, covering essential concepts and practical implementation techniques.
User Interfaces in VB . Net
Paperback
Check
User Interfaces in VB . Net
Kindle Edition
Check
Cover image
XAML Unleashed
Save
This introductory guide to WPF provides a gentle introduction to the framework, covering its key concepts and practical implementation techniques.
XAML Unleashed
Kindle Edition
$$
Universal Windows Apps with XAML and C# Unleashed
Paperback
$$$
Windows 8 Apps With XAML and C# Unleashed
Paperback
$$$$
Windows 8.1 Apps with XAML and C# Unleashed
Kindle Edition
$$
Universal Windows Apps with XAML and C# Unleashed...
Unknown Binding
$$$$
Cover image
Windows 8.1 Apps with XAML and C# Unleashed
Save
This concise guide to WPF provides a solid overview of the framework's key concepts and practical implementation techniques, serving as a useful reference for both beginners and experienced developers.
Windows 8.1 Apps with XAML and C# Unleashed
Paperback
Check
Windows 8.1 Apps with XAML and C# Unleashed
Kindle Edition
Check

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Time
209 hours
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Introductory
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Instructor
Thomas Claudius Huber
Language
English
Traffic lights
Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Teaches the fundamentals of building .NET 5 desktop applications, including core concepts such as XAML, layout, the MVVM pattern, and data binding
Suitable for beginners who want to build desktop applications with .NET and C#
Covers the different UI frameworks available for building Windows desktop apps, including WinUI, WPF, and Windows Forms
Provides hands-on experience in building desktop apps with each UI framework
Taught by Thomas Claudius Huber, an experienced instructor in .NET and desktop development
May not be suitable for learners who already have experience with UI frameworks or desktop development
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