Visual Studio 2008 SP1 has the option to target the "Client-only Framework Subset". Visual Studio developers can view their project properties and view the Advanced Compiler Options. The options will allow users to target the framework their application will require (.NET Framework 2.0, 3.0 or 3.5). There will also be a check-box to target the "Client-only Framework Subset". This option will change the project in two subtle ways.
- First, at compile time, the reference list of DLLs will be matched up against the known "Client List" of DLLs that are included in the Client Profile. If the project has a reference to an assembly that is not included, in the "Client List", the developer will see compile-time warnings/errors.
- Second, the project will add a configuration file that will specifically declare the application as a "client" application. The configuration file will allow their application to run on a computer with just the Client Profile installed. Without the configuration file, the end-user will be prompted to install .NET Framework 3.5 SP1 or greater