COM Interop
COM Interop (Component Object Model Interoperability) is a technology that enables communication between managed .NET code and unmanaged COM components. It allows .NET applications to use existing COM objects, such as those written in C++ or Visual Basic 6, and vice versa, by providing runtime wrappers and marshaling services. This facilitates integration with legacy systems and Windows APIs that rely on COM.
Developers should learn COM Interop when working on .NET projects that need to interact with legacy COM-based software, such as older Windows applications, ActiveX controls, or Office automation. It is essential for modernizing applications while preserving existing investments in COM components, enabling seamless data exchange and functionality reuse across different technology stacks.