The .NET Reference Source is a read-only repository containing source code from the Microsoft .NET Framework class libraries.
The repository serves as a reference implementation for a subset of the .NET Framework, providing developers with access to the underlying source code of core class libraries. It exists primarily as a consultation resource during the development of .NET Core, allowing the open-source .NET Core project to reference proven implementations from the .NET Framework. The repository also enables the broader .NET developer community to understand how framework components work internally and to leverage this knowledge for their own development scenarios.
Developers should treat this repository as a reference and learning resource rather than a development platform. It suits those who need to understand the internals of .NET Framework class libraries or who are working on .NET Core development and want to consult the original implementations. The repository is explicitly read-only and does not accept feature requests or bug reports, so it is not appropriate for contributing changes or reporting issues. Those working with .NET Framework should direct issues to the official .NET Framework feedback channels, while those working with .NET Core should use the .NET Core repository.
The project receives no active development activity. The repository is maintained as a static reference archive with no ongoing commits, pull requests, or issue resolution.
