dotnet-cli-distribution

The best way to distribute a .NET CLI application depends on your needs, choosing between Native AOT for fast startup, framework-dependent for smaller size, self-contained for zero dependencies, or dotnet tool packaging. This strategy balances startup time, binary size, and runtime dependencies.

To publish a .NET CLI tool as a single-file executable, you must configure your single-file publish settings and select a distribution strategy. This process minimizes binary size and ensures cross-platform distribution by bundling the application and its dependencies into one executable.

Choose Native AOT publishing for maximum performance and ease of distribution without runtime dependencies, or framework-dependent publishing for smaller artifacts when the .NET 8.0+ runtime is guaranteed on the target machine. Your choice depends on whether you prioritize startup time or download size.

Yes, you need a .NET 8.0+ baseline to use Native AOT features for CLI distribution. This Skill assumes the .NET 8.0+ runtime is present to leverage Native AOT compilation, which provides maximum performance and ease of distribution for your command-line tools.

You determine the correct Runtime Identifier (RID) matrix by planning your cross-platform targeting strategy for Linux and Windows. This guidance helps identify the specific RIDs needed to ensure your .NET CLI tool publishes correctly across different operating system architectures.

Limitations of Native AOT for .NET CLI distribution include larger binary sizes compared to framework-dependent apps and potential compatibility constraints with dynamic features. You should avoid Native AOT if you need smaller artifacts and can guarantee the .NET runtime is already installed.