Userware, in an effort to keep Microsoft’s legacy Silverlight applications alive and kicking, has rolled out OpenSilver 2.2—an open-source renovation targeting what was once a booming platform for rich internet applications. With Silverlight’s discontinuation looming overhead, many enterprises faced the monumental task of re-engineering their existing applications or risking obsolescence. This latest OpenSilver version introduces a much-needed solution that can bring old LightSwitch applications back from the brink. Organizations can now breathe new life into these apps by transporting them into the modern era of web technology, including HTML5 and WebAssembly, without having to start from scratch.
1. Initialize Migration Process
To start the process of migrating a LightSwitch application, developers must first transfer the generated files from the legacy LightSwitch project. This step is crucial as it involves the careful extraction of the extant project data, which will form the basis for the new OpenSilver project. Once these files are secured, they must be imported into the latest instance of Visual Studio, preparing them for OpenSilver’s transformational process.
2. Incorporate Compatibility Package
As Microsoft prepares to phase out Silverlight, a once-popular framework for interactive web applications, Userware steps in with OpenSilver 2.2, a revitalizing open-source project. This solution is especially pivotal for businesses grappling with the potential loss of their Silverlight-based applications, including those created with LightSwitch. OpenSilver 2.2 offers a seamless transition path, modernizing these legacy applications to function with current web standards like HTML5 and WebAssembly. The update promises to retain the core functionalities of the original programs while making them compatible with modern browsers and technologies. This not only prevents the applications from becoming outdated but also eliminates the need for a complete overhaul, saving organizations time and resources. With OpenSilver 2.2, companies are afforded an opportunity to extend the life of their investment into the digital landscape of tomorrow without substantial redevelopment.
