As developers integrating web functionalities into native applications, we often encounter the necessity to embed web content seamlessly. The Microsoft Edge WebView2 Runtime emerges as a solution, bridging the gap between our native application code and the robust capabilities of web technologies. WebView2 is a control provided by Microsoft, capable of rendering web content within native applications, leveraging the Chromium engine that powers the Microsoft Edge browser.
We benefit from the WebView2 Runtime as it ensures our applications remain current with the latest web standards and features provided by Microsoft Edge updates. This “evergreen” runtime is automatically updated by Microsoft, ensuring long-term compatibility and security. Moreover, for certain environments where automatic updates are not ideal, WebView2 also provides a fixed version, giving us control over the browser environment our application relies on.
Embedding web technologies into our native projects with WebView2 allows us to enrich the user experience with powerful web-based tools and interfaces. Our users can enjoy the modern web capabilities without having to leave the application environment, simplifying workflows and maintaining the look and feel of our software. For us as developers, WebView2 simplifies the deployment process, as the runtime can be bundled with our apps or leveraged through existing installations on the Windows operating system.
Contents
Setting Up WebView2 Runtime
Many developers appreciate the versatility of Microsoft Edge WebView2 Runtime due to its dual update channels: the evergreen and fixed versions. Understanding how to install and manage these versions is crucial for seamless application deployment.
Installation Methods
First, we ensure Visual Studio is updated to support the WebView2 SDK. The WebView2 SDK can be acquired through the NuGet package manager. During application development, we incorporate the SDK, allowing us to implement WebView functionalities in our apps.
For a more hands-on approach, deploying WebView2 Runtime manually is an option. We select and package the specific version we need from the official Microsoft Edge Developer website. This method gives us full control over the version and timing of the runtime installation.
Version Management
| Evergreen Runtime | Fixed Version Runtime |
| Automatically updates with the latest features and security updates. | We align a specific runtime version with our application, independent of the user’s browser. |
| Ideal for applications where the latest web platform capabilities are important. | Suitable for environments where updates are managed to ensure compatibility and testing. |
We determine our versioning strategy based on our deployment needs. If we prefer automatic updates and hands-off maintenance, the evergreen approach is suitable. It does the legwork in ensuring the latest version of the WebView2 runtime is always in use. However, if our application requires a precise version of the runtime for compatibility reasons, the fixed version setup is the path we choose. This approach involves manual updates but provides a stable and predictable environment.
Developing With WebView2
As developers, we must adapt to the evolving landscape of web technologies. Microsoft Edge WebView2 is a game-changer for us, offering a versatile control that lets us embed web content in our Windows applications with ease. Whether we’re developing new software or updating existing ones, WebView2 paves the way for a powerful fusion of web and desktop capabilities.
Integrating WebView2 with Windows Applications
Utilizing Web Technologies in Desktop Applications
WebView2 SDK and Documentation
| Key Element | Use | Benefits |
| WebView2 SDK | Develop & Test | Access to latest APIs & Tools |
| Documentation | Guides & References | Facilitates seamless development |
| API Feedback | Improve WebView2 | Informs future updates |
Our toolkit for developing with WebView2 includes its comprehensive SDK and extensive documentation. By leveraging the SDK, we have access to the latest APIs that herald improved controls and functionality within our applications. Documentation serves as our guidepost, offering us references and step-by-step instructions to exploit WebView2 to its fullest. We also value the feedback loop provided by users and the developer community, which further refines the evolution of the WebView2 ecosystem.
Performance and Resource Management
In the context of Microsoft Edge WebView2 Runtime, it’s crucial for us to understand how it influences system performance and resource allocation. Let’s explore the ways to efficiently handle memory and CPU usage to ensure smooth functioning.
Understanding Memory and CPU Usage
WebView2’s disk footprint is usually modest, but as a developer, it’s important to monitor disk space to prevent any potential issues with reliability. Resource usage varies; during idle periods, WebView2 should consume minimal resources, yet during active times, usage will naturally spike.
Handling Resource Constraints
| Strategy | Benefit | Consideration |
| Limit Background Processes | Reduces idle CPU/RAM usage | May affect multitasking |
| Optimize WebView2 Version | Enhances performance | Requires keeping up with updates |
| Monitor with Task Manager | Real-time resource tracking | Manual intervention needed |
We need strategies for handling resource constraints especially when developing resource-sensitive applications. Keeping the runtime updated and selecting the appropriate version helps in optimizing performance. Moreover, being proactive in resources management by periodically checking the Task Manager to understand real time CPU and memory footprint can help in preemptively addressing any potential resource over-utilization. These approaches enable us to strike a balance between resource usage and application reliability.
Security and Updates
The Microsoft Edge WebView2 Runtime is a critical component in ensuring both the security and the timely updates of web content within native applications. We focus on providing a secure platform that is regularly updated to combat emerging threats and adhere to web standards.
Ensuring Application Security
Managing Update Channels and Rollouts
In terms of updates, WebView2 offers two distinct distribution channels: the evergreen and the fixed version. The Evergreen distribution mode is designed for applications that can adapt to the latest changes swiftly, while the Fixed Version Runtime is available for applications with strict compatibility requirements.
| Evergreen Distribution Mode | Fixed Version Runtime |
| Automatically updated to stay on latest version | Select and package a specific version |
| Evergreen Bootstrapper and Standalone Installer available | Doesn’t receive automatic updates |
| Microsoft Edge Stable Channel integration | Compatible with Stable Channel releases |
We manage updates to ensure a balance between the latest features and stability. The evergreen bootstrapper and standalone installer options provide developers with flexibility in updating the WebView2 runtime. The security of our users’ applications remains a top priority, and we are committed to delivering the most secure platform with the Microsoft Edge Stable Channel.