Should I Dispose of HttpClient and HttpClientHandler?

.NET HttpClient and HttpClientHandler: Disposal Necessary?

This article addresses the common question of whether HttpClient and HttpClientHandler in .NET require explicit disposal using Dispose(). While both implement IDisposable, Microsoft's examples often omit explicit disposal calls.

The Verdict: Disposal is Generally Unnecessary

The short answer is no, you typically don't need to explicitly dispose of HttpClient or HttpClientHandler objects. Doing so might introduce unnecessary overhead without providing tangible benefits.

Best Practices: Avoid Unnecessary Disposal

While technically disposable, the design of HttpClient and HttpClientHandler in current .NET versions doesn't necessitate manual disposal for typical usage. The potential performance gains from disposal are generally negligible compared to the added complexity.

Code Considerations: Safe Disposal Practices

If you choose to dispose (which is generally not recommended), ensure you dispose of the HttpClientHandler before the HttpClient. Incorrect disposal order can lead to issues. However, the benefits of doing this are minimal and often outweighed by the added complexity.

Why IDisposable Implementation?

The IDisposable implementation allows for future extensibility. Microsoft might introduce scenarios in future .NET versions where disposal becomes necessary for optimal resource management. For now, it's best to follow the established best practice of not explicitly disposing of these objects.

Are Microsoft Examples Misleading?

No, Microsoft examples that omit explicit disposal are not misleading or unsafe for typical use cases. They reflect the current best practice of letting the garbage collector handle cleanup.

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