What It Does
OpenSilver is a free, open-source framework that helps developers build modern web applications using C#, VB, or F# and XAML.
It is designed for organizations that want to bring existing WPF or Silverlight applications to the web without rebuilding everything from scratch.
With OpenSilver 3.3, developers can now run Blazor components directly inside XAML applications, making modernization faster and more flexible.
Key Features
- Blazor Components in XAML – Run Blazor components directly inside OpenSilver applications.
- Cross-Platform Deployment – Build once and run on Windows, macOS, Android, Chrome, Firefox, Safari, and more.
- High Code Reusability – Reuse 95%+ of existing WPF or Silverlight code in many migration projects.
- AI-Powered UI Designer – Drag-and-drop interface builder enhanced with AI capabilities.
- MAUI Hybrid Integration – Connect OpenSilver applications with .NET MAUI projects.
- WPF & Silverlight Compatibility – Designed to preserve existing UI, workflows, and user experiences.
- Open Source Framework – Available under the MIT License with full source code access.
- Built-In Migration Support – Professional migration services available for businesses with legacy applications.
- Works with Modern Frameworks – Compatible with Blazor and can integrate with technologies such as React and Angular.
- Online IDE Available – Try OpenSilver instantly through XAML.io without installation or registration.
Who Is OpenSilver For?
- Enterprise Development Teams – Modernize legacy applications without expensive rewrites.
- WPF Developers – Move desktop applications to the web while keeping familiar development workflows.
- Silverlight Application Owners – Extend the life of existing software after Silverlight’s retirement.
- .NET Developers – Build web applications using C# and XAML instead of JavaScript-heavy frameworks.
- Organizations with Large Codebases – Reduce migration costs by reusing existing code and UI assets.
- Software Vendors – Deliver applications across browsers and devices while maintaining a consistent user experience.
- Consultancies & Agencies – Offer faster modernization projects with lower development overhead.
Final Thoughts
OpenSilver stands out as a practical solution for businesses and developers looking to modernize WPF and Silverlight applications without starting from zero.
The ability to reuse existing code, maintain a familiar UI, and deploy across browsers and devices can significantly reduce migration costs and development time.
The addition of Blazor component support in OpenSilver 3.3 makes the platform even more flexible for modern .NET development.
If you’re maintaining a legacy WPF or Silverlight application and want a faster path to the modern web, OpenSilver is definitely worth exploring.
