Silverlight (32-bit)

Microsoft Silverlight was a web application framework used to build rich internet applications (RIAs). It was launched in 2007 as a competitor to Adobe Flash, offering a framework for creating interactive and multimedia-rich web applications. Silverlight 32bit was designed to provide a seamless and consistent user experience across multiple web browsers and operating systems. 

It will reach the end of support on October 12, 2021. Silverlight development framework is currently only supported on Internet Explorer 10 and Internet Explorer 11, with support for Internet Explorer 10 ending on January 31, 2020.

Features

Rich User Interface: It enabled developers to construct visually appealing and engaging user interfaces that included animations, vector graphics, and media playback. 
Multimedia Support: It offered robust music and video playing, as well as smooth high-definition multimedia streaming. 
Data Integration: Silverlight can readily integrate with a variety of data sources, making it ideal for creating data-driven applications. 
Cross-Browser Compatibility: It was built to work with a variety of web browsers, minimizing compatibility difficulties. 

It provided security features such as code access security and digital rights management (DRM) to safeguard content and applications.

User Interface

The applications had a sleek and customizable user interface, with a wide range of controls and design options. The UI elements were highly responsive, allowing for smooth user interactions and animations.

Installation and Setup

Installing the app was a straightforward process. Users could visit the official Silverlight website and download the runtime for their respective operating systems (Windows or macOS). The installation wizard guided users through the setup process, and Silverlight seamlessly integrated with web browsers, enabling the execution of Silverlight applications.

PROS

• Rich multimedia capabilities.
• Cross-browser compatibility.
• Integration with .NET technologies.
• Seamless user experience.

CONS

• Deprecated and unsupported.
• Limited mobile device support.
• Incompatibility with modern web standards.
• Limited third-party plugin support.

FAQ

Is Silverlight still supported by Microsoft?
No, Silverlight is no longer actively supported or developed by Microsoft since October 2021.

Can I still use Silverlight in my web applications?
While it may still function in some older web browsers, it is not recommended to use the app for new projects due to its deprecated status.

Are there any alternatives to Silverlight for creating rich internet applications?
Yes, alternatives like HTML5, JavaScript frameworks (e.g., Angular, React), and Progressive Web Apps (PWAs) have largely replaced Silverlight for modern web development.

Can I migrate my existing Silverlight applications to a different platform?
Yes, it is advisable to migrate your applications to a more modern and sustainable technology stack to ensure future compatibility and support.

Where can I find resources for migrating away from Silverlight?
Microsoft and other online resources provide guidance on migrating the applications to alternative technologies.

System Requirements

The system requirements for Silverlight varied depending on the version, but generally, it was compatible with Windows and macOS operating systems and worked in multiple web browsers, including Internet Explorer, Firefox, and Safari.