binlog-generation

Generate MSBuild binary logs with the /bl: switch for .NET build diagnostics.

2|Updated Mar 17, 2026

Search Tags:#logging #diagnostics #dotnet #build-analysis #msbuild #binlog #build-logs

Ready to run

npx skills add https://github.com/sayedihashimi/copilot-skill-eval --skill binlog-generation-sayedihashimi

💬 Prompt for ChatGPT / Claude Chat▼

Please help me install this Agent Skill.
Skill: binlog-generation
Source: https://github.com/sayedihashimi/copilot-skill-eval/tree/main/examples/aspnet-razor-pages/plugins/dotnet-skills/dotnet-msbuild/skills/binlog-generation
Command: npx skills add https://github.com/sayedihashimi/copilot-skill-eval --skill binlog-generation-sayedihashimi

SYSTEM DOCUMENTATION & REQUIREMENTS

What problem does it solve?

MSBuild binary logs (binlogs) capture a complete build trace to diagnose failures and performance issues, enabling post-build analysis and traceability.

Core Features & Use Cases

Generate /bl binlogs for MSBuild-based commands (dotnet build, test, pack, publish, restore) to diagnose build failures and performance bottlenecks.
Ensure unique binlog naming for repeatable analysis and artifact management in CI.
Support guidance for MSBuild 17.8+ / .NET 8 SDK environments and PowerShell brace escaping.

Quick Start

Run an MSBuild-based command with the /bl: flag to generate a binlog for diagnostic analysis.

Frequently Asked Questions about binlog-generation

High-intent search queries and answers about installing and using this skill.

FAQPage Schema

What is an MSBuild binlog and when do I need it for .NET builds?▼

An MSBuild binlog is a binary build trace that captures complete diagnostic information for .NET builds. You need binlogs to diagnose build failures and analyze performance bottlenecks during development or CI artifact management.

How do I generate MSBuild binlogs for dotnet build, test, pack, publish, or restore?▼

To generate MSBuild binlogs, add the /bl: switch to your dotnet build, test, pack, publish, or restore commands. This creates a binary log file for post-build diagnostic analysis and traceability.

Does generating MSBuild binlogs require a specific version of the .NET SDK?▼

Yes, generating MSBuild binlogs requires MSBuild 17.8+ or the .NET 8 SDK. These versions support the /bl:{} switch needed to capture complete build traces for diagnostic analysis.

How do I escape curly braces when using the /bl switch in PowerShell?▼

When using the /bl switch in PowerShell to generate MSBuild binlogs, escape the curly braces by doubling them as {{}}. This ensures the command parses correctly for .NET build diagnostics.

Can I use MSBuild binlogs for performance profiling and CI artifact management?▼

Yes, MSBuild binlogs capture complete build traces for performance profiling and failure analysis. They support unique naming for repeatable analysis and artifact management in CI environments.