MicrosoftReferenceSource

MicrosoftReferenceSource is a website hosted by Microsoft that provides access to the source code of many Microsoft products and components. Launched in 2009, it serves as a resource for developers and users who wish to examine how certain Microsoft technologies are implemented. The site offers a searchable interface allowing users to find specific code snippets, classes, and methods. It covers a wide range of Microsoft products including the .NET Framework, Windows Presentation Foundation (WPF), and various parts of the Windows operating system.

The primary purpose of MicrosoftReferenceSource is to foster transparency and aid in learning. Developers can use it to understand the underlying mechanisms of the .NET platform, troubleshoot issues by examining the code, and learn best practices by observing how Microsoft's own engineers have written the code. It is important to note that while the source code is available for viewing, it is not necessarily open source. This means that users can view and learn from the code, but they are typically not permitted to modify and redistribute it without explicit permission from Microsoft. The site is a valuable tool for anyone working with Microsoft technologies who seeks a deeper understanding of their inner workings.