How to: Create a Project from Existing Code Files

If you have an application that does not include project or solution files, for example, an application that you obtained from an online source, you can create a Visual Studio project from the existing code files. The project is created on your computer and all relevant files are added to the project.

A project can be created from any one of the following types of code files: Visual Basic, Visual C++, or Visual C#. By using a wizard, you specify the details of the existing code files that will be added to the project and the application that will be created when you build the project.

Security noteSecurity Note

Before you use existing code files to create a project, determine the trustworthiness of the code files outside Visual Studio. Opening a project in Visual Studio automatically executes code from that project on your computer in the fully trusted process of devenv.exe.

To create a project from existing code files

  1. On the File menu, click New, and then click Project From Existing Code.

    The Create New Project from Existing Code Files wizard opens.

    Warning

    This option is not available in Express editions. It is available only in the following development setting profiles: General, JavaScript for Windows 8, SQL Server, Visual C++, Visual C#, and Visual F#. To view or change your settings, choose Import and Export Settings on the Tools menu. For more information, see Customizing Development Settings.

  2. Use the wizard to specify the details of the existing code files that will be added to the project and the application that will be created when you build the project.

See Also

Concepts

Creating Solutions and Projects