NuGet is the official package manager for .NET, making it easy to add, update, and manage third-party libraries and tools in your projects. If you want to reuse code, share your own libraries, or keep your dependencies up to date, NuGet is your go-to solution.
This article will explain what NuGet is, how it works, and how you can use it to supercharge your .NET development.
Introduction to NuGet
NuGet is like an app store for code. It lets you find and install packages—pre-built libraries and tools—so you don’t have to write everything from scratch. NuGet is built into Visual Studio and the .NET CLI, and it works on Windows, macOS, and Linux.
Why Use NuGet?
- Save time: Add powerful features to your app in seconds.
- Stay up to date: Get the latest bug fixes and improvements automatically.
- Share code: Publish your own libraries for others to use.
- Manage dependencies: Keep track of all the libraries your project needs.
How NuGet Works
NuGet uses packages—bundles of code, resources, and metadata. These packages are stored in feeds (online repositories), like the official nuget.org feed. When you install a package, NuGet downloads it and updates your project files automatically.
Installing a Package
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dotnet add package Newtonsoft.Json |
This command adds the popular Newtonsoft.Json package to your project. NuGet updates your project file and downloads the package for you.
Managing Packages
- Update a package:
1dotnet add package Newtonsoft.Json --version 13.0.3
- Remove a package:
1dotnet remove package Newtonsoft.Json
- List installed packages:
1dotnet list package
How Packages Are Stored
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<!-- In your .csproj file --> <PackageReference Include="Newtonsoft.Json" Version="13.0.3" /> |
NuGet adds a <PackageReference> entry to your project file for each package you install. This makes it easy to share your project and restore dependencies on any machine.
Creating Your Own Packages
Want to share your code with the world? You can create and publish your own NuGet packages!
1. Create a .NET Class Library
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dotnet new classlib -n MyLibrary |
2. Pack Your Library
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dotnet pack -c Release |
This creates a .nupkg file in the bin/Release folder.
3. Publish to NuGet.org
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dotnet nuget push bin/Release/MyLibrary.1.0.0.nupkg --api-key YOUR_API_KEY --source https://api.nuget.org/v3/index.json |
Replace YOUR_API_KEY with your NuGet.org API key.
Best Practices for Dependency Management
- Use the latest stable versions of packages for security and bug fixes.
- Review package sources—prefer official or well-known feeds.
- Remove unused packages to keep your project clean.
- Check for license compatibility before adding a package.
- Use
dotnet restoreto ensure all dependencies are installed.
Summary
NuGet makes .NET development faster, safer, and more collaborative. With just a few commands, you can add powerful features, keep your code up to date, and share your own libraries with the world. Mastering NuGet is a must for every .NET developer!
This article is part of our .NET Essentials series. Go back to the series plan or explore more topics to level up your .NET skills.
