Logic NP Software has released EZNamespaceExtensions.Net v2013 which enables you to develop shell or Windows Explorer namespace extensions in .NET. It employs an easy to use object model to enable the shell namespace extension to integrate smoothly and seamlessly into Windows Explorer. The look, feel and functionality of the extensions will be similar to that of the active Windows Explorer folders.
EZNamespaceExtensions.Net provides support for the following Windows Explorer features and functionalities
- Folder and non-folder items
- Multi level sub folders
- Automatic sub folder navigation
- Context menus, background context menus for items
- Details and Report view support with multiple columns
- Thumbnail view, Cut, Copy and Paste
- Group view and category
- Icons and Overlay icons for items
- Automatic renaming functionality for items
- Property sheet and Infotip for items
EZNamespaceExtensions also provides an ability to integrate menu items to the main Windows Explorer frame menu and add buttons to the Windows Explorer toolbar with drag-drop support from, to and within the namespace extension. It also enables you to present items in the namespace extension as files and folders.
In order to work with EZNamespaceExtensions.Net v2013, you need to make use of Shell Namespace Extension project template integrated with Visual Studio 2012. It automatically generates the required code and files for the development of a namespace extension.
The project can be then modified, built and registered using the RegisterExtensionDotNet40.exe utility, which can be found inside the installation folder. Moreover, you should restart Windows Explorer using the RestartExplorer.exe utility in order to view the namespace extension and will also be visible under My Computer.
InfoQ spoke to Himangi G, Senior Developer, LogicNP Software to know more about the possibilities of EZNamespaceExtensions.Net.
InfoQ: What is the need for the development of Windows Explorer namespace extensions in .NET?
Developing Windows Explorer namespace extensions in .NET allows developers to leverage their existing knowledge and skills of the .NET technology and base class library as well as use their favorite .NET programming language, be it C# or VB.NET. Using .NET to develop namespace extensions allow developers to use the vast base class library (BCL) to their advantage.
InfoQ: Can you share with us the type of applications that can be developed using EZNamespaceExtensions.Net v2013?
The following is just some of the types of Windows Explorer-integrated and File Open/Save Dialog-integrated software that you can developed using EZNamespaceExtensions.Net 2013:
- Document Management Software
- Content Management Software
- Information Management Software
- Virtual Drives
- FTP programs
- Database Browser or Front-End
- Protocol Handlers
InfoQ: Is it necessary to purchase a license of EZNamespaceExtensions.Net v2013 when distributing the application?
No, EZNamespaceExtensions.Net v2013 includes royalty-free redistribution licenses, so you can redistribute the EZNamespaceExtensions.Net binary with your developed namespace extension absolutely free.
InfoQ: How easy it is to develop an application with EZNamespaceExtensions.Net v2013?
EZNamespaceExtensions.Net allows you to jumpstart namespace extension development with Visual Studio IDE Project wizards. It has a simple, well designed and thoroughly tested API framework which allows you to develop namespace extensions in hours/days instead of weeks/months. It has full feature support allowing your namespace extension to integrate seamlessly into Windows Explorer and File Open/Save dialogs of all applications. It includes a registration utility to easily deploy your developed namespace extensions.