How to create Shared memory between C# application and VC++ console application

manoharbalu

I want to create shared memory in a C# windows application. And a second console application in visual studio has to share the same memory using OpenFileMapping function. Is it possible to share memory as I mentioned between one application in C# and other application in Visual C++ console application. Please advise and suggest the ways of doing this

Richard Deeming

The BCL has plenty of support for memory-mapped files: Memory-Mapped Files | Microsoft Docs[^]

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OriginalGriff

I would strongly suggest that you don't: instead redesign to use message based communications via Named Pipes[^] or Sockets C#[^] / Sockets C++[^] It's a much more robust solution that can be a whole load more flexible.

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Lost User

Going in circles. [Shared memory - C# Discussion Boards](https://www.codeproject.com/Messages/5813583/Shared-memory)

It was only in wine that he laid down no limit for himself, but he did not allow himself to be confused by it. ― Confucian Analects: Rules of Confucius about his food

manoharbalu

But I didnt get a solution. Please provide me some details and hints how to share memory between C# application and VC++ console application

manoharbalu

This gives details for creating and opening shared memory between 2 C# application processes. Please help me to share memory between 2 applications, one in C# and other VC++ console application to open the share memory created in C# application. Is it possible of doing this? Please advise

Richard Deeming

The documentation tells you how to create or access memory-mapped files from a C# application. You presumably already know how to create or access memory-mapped files from a C++ application. If not, the Microsoft docs site has details: Memory-Mapped File Information - Win32 apps | Microsoft Docs[^] The file doesn't care which language was used to create the process that's accessing it.

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Lost User

You're stuck on one approach and not open to suggestions.

It was only in wine that he laid down no limit for himself, but he did not allow himself to be confused by it. ― Confucian Analects: Rules of Confucius about his food

jschell

If helps. A memory mapped file is an OS supported option. C++ can use and access a memory mapped file. C# can use and access a memory mapped file. So the solution is 1. Study memory mapped files so you specifically understand how they can be shared between applications. I believe sharing requires a specific set up. 2. Study the api for C++ memory mapped files. 3. Study the api for C# memory mapped files. 4. Design how the memory mapped file will be used. Pay attention to failure scenarios. 5. Use 2 and 4 to implement a solution in the C++ app. 6. Use 3 and 4 to implement a solution in the C# app.