dotnet-winforms-basics
dotnet-winforms-basics
WinForms on .NET 8+: updated project templates with Host builder and DI, high-DPI support with PerMonitorV2, dark mode via Application.SetColorMode (experimental in .NET 9, targeting finalization in .NET 11), when to use WinForms, modernization tips for migrating from .NET Framework, and common agent pitfalls.
Version assumptions: .NET 8.0+ baseline (current LTS). TFM net8.0-windows. .NET 9 features (dark mode experimental) explicitly marked. .NET 11 finalization targets noted.
Scope boundary: This skill owns WinForms on modern .NET patterns: project setup, high-DPI, dark mode, DI, when to use, modernization. Migration from .NET Framework to .NET 8+ is owned by [skill:dotnet-wpf-migration]. Desktop testing is owned by [skill:dotnet-ui-testing-core].
Out of scope: WinForms .NET Framework patterns (legacy) -- this skill covers .NET 8+ only. Migration guidance -- see [skill:dotnet-wpf-migration]. Desktop testing -- see [skill:dotnet-ui-testing-core]. General Native AOT patterns -- see [skill:dotnet-native-aot]. UI framework selection -- see [skill:dotnet-ui-chooser].
Cross-references: [skill:dotnet-ui-testing-core] for desktop testing, [skill:dotnet-wpf-modern] for WPF patterns, [skill:dotnet-winui] for WinUI 3 patterns, [skill:dotnet-wpf-migration] for migration guidance, [skill:dotnet-native-aot] for general AOT, [skill:dotnet-ui-chooser] for framework selection.
.NET 8+ Differences
WinForms on .NET 8+ is a significant modernization from .NET Framework WinForms, with an SDK-style project format, DI support, and updated APIs.