Common Language Infrastructure

What is Common Language Infrastructure?
Common Language Infrastructure (CLI) is a Microsoft specification for running high-level language program applications on various computer systems without changing the application code. CLI is based on the Microsoft .NET concept, which some high-level language programs require due to system hardware and processing limitations. CLI compiles applications as Intermediate Language (IL), which is automatically compiled as native system code. This approach enables applications to run in constrained systems without code rewriting.

CLI components are as follows: Common Type System (CTS): The CLI core model. Provides support for a wide variety of programming language data types that are often referenced by various compilers.

Metadata: Known as data about data. A mechanism between different tools like compilers and debuggers and the Virtual Execution System (VES). Defines metadata for CTS data types. Common Language Specification (CLS): A basic set of rules for each compilation language according to CLI standards.

Virtual Execution System (VES): Loads and executes CLI programs and implements the CTS model. Provides services necessary to manage code and data. Uses late binding metadata to connect connected runtime modules.

CLI benefits are as follows: Defines a consistent programming model. For example, a .NET program is syntactically similar to C.NET or VB.NET and follows the same essential steps in accessing and retrieving data. Administrators can define and strengthen security by restricting data access and ensuring the authenticity of the user. Implements protocols such as HTTP, Transmission Control Protocol (TCP / IP), Simple Object Access Protocol (SOAP), and Extensible Markup Language (XML), ensuring technology compatibility with additional layers of security.