How Can I Debug WixSharp Custom Actions in a Console Environment?

Console Debugging of WixSharp Custom Actions: A Step-by-Step Guide

WixSharp custom actions enhance installer capabilities, but debugging them can be tricky. This guide provides a practical approach to debugging WixSharp custom actions within a console environment.

The Challenge:

You have a custom action project compiled as a .dll and need to step through its code during the installation process.

The Solution:

Follow these steps to effectively debug your WixSharp custom actions:

1. Confirm Debug Build: Ensure your project is compiled in Debug configuration.

2. Set Breakpoints: Insert breakpoints directly into your custom action code.

3. Leverage Debug.Assert() or Conditional Compilation: Utilize Debug.Assert() for runtime checks or wrap debugging code within #if DEBUG #endif preprocessor directives for controlled debug behavior.

4. Initiate Installation: Run the installation using the generated MSI file.

5. Attach the Debugger: When the custom action executes, Visual Studio will prompt you to attach a debugger to the process.

Code Example:

<code class="language-csharp">    [CustomAction]
    public static ActionResult CustomAction(Session session)
    {
    #if DEBUG
        System.Diagnostics.Debugger.Launch(); // This will trigger the debugger attachment
    #endif
        MessageBox.Show("Hello World!" + session[IISSessions.AppPoolName], "External Managed CA");
        return ActionResult.Success;
    }</code>

Troubleshooting Tips:

If your breakpoints aren't hit:

• Double-check that Debug.Assert() or code within #if DEBUG #endif is included in your custom action.
• Verify that you've built your project in Debug mode.
• Confirm that you are using the correctly built MSI file for installation.

Further Resources:

• WixSharp Custom Actions
• Debugging Custom Actions

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