What are my options for C++ DLL to call a C# DLL?

Question

I have a C++ DLL that needs to call a function (pass a value, return a value) in a C# class library.

Is my only option to give the C# DLL a COM interface and call it from C++ with IDispatch?

Is this the best method?

Is there any way you can use managed C++ and avoid COM altogether? — Stu, Jun 09 '09 at 18:12
It is a C++ DLL calling a C# DLL. The C++ is used by another app. I can't alter the interface to the C++ DLL (and therefore managed C++ wrapper around it, is out of the question). — Jason, Jun 09 '09 at 22:49

score 6 · Accepted Answer · answered Jun 09 '09 at 18:33

Couple of options available for you here

Use a mixed mode C++/CLI assembly as a bridge between the C++ and C# DLL
Use the a COM bridge by exposing several of the key C# types as COM objects. This can then be accessed via the C++ code by normal COM semantics

score 1 · Answer 2 · answered Sep 22 '11 at 19:57

1

This project Creates dll exports for static methods in classes. You could then call a C# static method from unmanaged code.

answered Sep 22 '11 at 19:57

Justin Dearing

score 0 · Answer 3 · answered Jun 09 '09 at 18:13

0

One approach that would work would be to call it though COM. You can use the Regasm tool to create the COM wrapper.

answered Jun 09 '09 at 18:13

Rob

score 0 · Answer 4 · answered Jun 09 '09 at 18:13

0

It's not the only option.

You could also compile your C++ DLL as a managed DLL.

You could host your C# DLL as a service and remote into it.

answered Jun 09 '09 at 18:13

rein

4 Answers4