How Can I Safely Load, Locate, and Execute a Class Method from a Dynamically Loaded Assembly?

Dynamic Assembly Loading, Class Location, and Method Invocation: A Robust Approach

Loading assemblies, locating classes, and invoking methods dynamically presents unique challenges. This article details a secure and efficient method for accomplishing this task.

The common approach of directly loading a DLL and accessing its classes often leads to casting errors. A superior solution leverages the power of AppDomains.

AppDomain Isolation: A Safer and More Flexible Method

Rather than directly loading the assembly, encapsulate it within its own AppDomain. This offers enhanced security and control.

The improved code example:

<code class="language-csharp">var domain = AppDomain.CreateDomain("NewDomainName");
var t = typeof(TypeIWantToLoad);
var runnable = domain.CreateInstanceFromAndUnwrap(@"C:\myDll.dll", t.Name) as IRunnable;
if (runnable == null) throw new Exception("broke");
runnable.Run();</code>

Here's a breakdown:

• AppDomain Creation: Creates an isolated AppDomain, preventing conflicts and enhancing security.
• TypeIWantToLoad: Specifies the type (class) to load.
• CreateInstanceFromAndUnwrap: Creates an instance of the specified class within the new AppDomain and unwraps it for use in the main domain.

Advantages of AppDomain Usage

Employing AppDomains provides:

• Enhanced Security: Isolates assemblies, reducing the risk of conflicts and security breaches.
• Improved Flexibility: Allows dynamic loading and unloading of assemblies, providing fine-grained control.
• Customizable Execution Environments: AppDomains support customized resource allocation, permissions, and security settings.

Advanced Techniques: Managed Add-ins Framework

For advanced scenarios requiring more control over dynamic loading and unloading, the Managed Add-ins Framework (System.AddIn namespace) offers a robust and powerful solution for managing add-ins and extensions.

The above is the detailed content of How Can I Safely Load, Locate, and Execute a Class Method from a Dynamically Loaded Assembly?. For more information, please follow other related articles on the PHP Chinese website!