Common Language Runtime
The Common Language Runtime (CLR) is the execution engine of the .NET framework that manages the execution of .NET programs. It provides services such as memory management, garbage collection, exception handling, and security, enabling code written in various .NET languages to run on different platforms. CLR compiles code into an intermediate language (IL) and then into native machine code at runtime through just-in-time (JIT) compilation.
Developers should learn CLR when building applications with .NET languages like C#, F#, or VB.NET, as it ensures cross-platform compatibility and efficient execution. It is essential for creating robust, secure, and high-performance applications on Windows, Linux, or macOS, particularly in enterprise environments where managed code and interoperability are critical.