Intermediate language can be returned to source code (although without comments), your application becomes open source and others can see how code works, edit code to break license protection or explore security holes, recompile and use without restriction. Net assemblies through Reflector's user interface. You can try it yourself, to decompile any. Net exe or dll files can be easily decompiled back to C# or VB.NET source code. Net source code is compiled to IL (Intermediate Language). These dll files can't be read with text editor but be aware that compiled dll doesn't protect code although is compiled.

Net class projects are compiled as dlls by default. This dll is sufficient to run complete site and now you can distribute web application without providing of source code. If you compile web application project, compiler will create dll file located in /bin folder. As first step in protection, you may decide to convert website project to type of web application project in Visual Studio. But, if your web application, custom control or component will be installed on different servers, code protection is the subject that should not be ignored.ĪSP.NET web application works fine if you just copy files to web server but these files are visible in Notepad or any other text editor. If you offer web service or solution hosted on your server only, you can even upload source code since you are the only person who has access to server. If you create ASP.NET web application or custom web control that should be distributed to customers worldwide, you need to protect your code from pirates, unlicensed users and competitors.

Protected folder license code