Microsoft Silverlight: A Geeks Weigh In Explanation
Understanding Microsoft Silverlight
Microsoft is a substantial technology corporation. Originating with the Windows operating system and the widespread adoption of software like Microsoft Office, the company’s influence now extends to numerous sectors, including mobile phones, gaming consoles, and automotive entertainment systems.
The success of Microsoft’s diverse initiatives isn’t uniform. While Internet Explorer has experienced a decline in user base over time, the Xbox 360 has proven to be a widely embraced and commercially successful product.
A Broad Portfolio of Products
Considering the extensive range of Microsoft products and services, it’s understandable that individual offerings can sometimes be overlooked. You may have recently encountered issues with certain Microsoft websites or software functioning properly, potentially due to a requirement for Microsoft Silverlight.
But what exactly is Microsoft Silverlight, and why should you be aware of it?
- Silverlight is a technology developed by Microsoft.
- It enables rich internet application development.
- It's designed to create engaging user experiences.
The technology allows developers to build applications that run within a web browser, offering functionality similar to desktop applications. It was initially conceived as a competitor to Adobe Flash.
However, its relevance has diminished as newer web standards have emerged. Many websites that once relied on Silverlight have transitioned to HTML5, CSS3, and JavaScript.
The Dawn of Silverlight
Microsoft Silverlight first appeared in 2007 with the release of its initial version. This inaugural release can be most accurately characterized as software designed for delivering online presentations.
Initially, Silverlight functioned as a web application framework. It enabled developers to integrate interactive elements into web-based content.
The framework allowed applications to receive input from a user’s machine and dynamically respond accordingly. Support was included for various video formats like WMA, WMV 7-9, and VC-1, alongside MP3 audio.
Silverlight and Flash: A Parallel Development
The objectives of Silverlight, from its inception, closely mirrored those of Adobe Flash. Flash content is ubiquitous online, frequently operating without explicit user awareness.
However, Flash has historically faced criticism regarding its performance and stability. Silverlight was conceived as a viable alternative to address these shortcomings.
Flash has often been described as inefficient and prone to errors. Silverlight aimed to provide a more robust and streamlined experience for delivering rich internet applications.
The core concept was to offer a similar level of interactivity as Flash, but with improved efficiency and reliability.
Silverlight: A Historical Overview
Since its initial launch in 2007, Silverlight has undergone consistent updates and improvements. Each subsequent release incorporated significant new functionalities and enhancements.
Silverlight 2 is particularly remembered for the introduction of Deep Zoom technology. This feature enabled the display of numerous high-resolution images as thumbnails, while simultaneously allowing users to view exceptionally detailed, high-resolution photographs upon zooming in. A notable example of this can be found on the Hard Rock Memorabilia website.
With Silverlight 3, support for AAC audio and H.264 video was implemented. Furthermore, the version included capabilities for 1080p streaming and other advanced media features. This significantly improved Silverlight’s media player functionality, positioning it as a viable alternative to Flash for video streaming.
The latest iteration, Silverlight 4, was released in April 2010. A key addition in this version was compatibility with the Google Chrome web browser. Developers were also given the ability to integrate webcam and microphone input into Silverlight applications.
These represent only a selection of the updates applied to Silverlight over time. For developers, the framework’s evolution over the past three years has dramatically expanded its capabilities. However, for end-users, the core outcome is that Silverlight functions similarly to Flash, often with improved speed and unique features like Deep Zoom, which Flash struggles to replicate.
Despite its advantages, Silverlight remains a relatively recent and less familiar technology. The position of Microsoft’s Silverlight is somewhat paradoxical. The company has developed a potentially better solution, but its adoption is hindered by the established ecosystem of applications and skilled developers already surrounding a competitor – Adobe’s Flash.
The most effective way to understand Silverlight’s potential is to experience it firsthand. Microsoft provides a website showcase that highlights various websites, gadgets, and tools built using this framework. The quality varies, with some examples being quite impressive.
Exploring Silverlight's Capabilities
The continuous development of Silverlight has resulted in a robust platform. It offers a compelling alternative to existing technologies in the realm of rich internet applications.
- Deep Zoom: Allows for detailed exploration of high-resolution images.
- Media Support: Includes AAC audio and H.264 video codecs.
- Streaming: Supports high-definition 1080p streaming.
- Hardware Integration: Enables the use of webcams and microphones within applications.
These features contribute to Silverlight’s ability to deliver engaging and interactive online experiences.
Compatibility
A significant advantage offered by Microsoft across its various projects is its extensive user base. Silverlight is accessible to users of Windows XP, Vista, and 7, functioning seamlessly with popular browsers such as Chrome, Firefox, Internet Explorer, and Safari.
Furthermore, Silverlight is also supported on Intel-based Apple computers running Safari. Support extends to Windows-based smartphones as well.
Broad Platform Support
Silverlight is pre-installed on all contemporary Windows mobile smartphones and Windows operating systems.
Should Silverlight not be present, obtaining and installing it is a straightforward process. The installation procedure is typically completed within a minute.
Key takeaway: Silverlight boasts wide compatibility, ensuring accessibility for a large number of users across diverse platforms.
The Future of Rich Internet Applications
Having outlined the fundamental aspects of Silverlight, it’s now appropriate to consider perspectives from the technical community. While Silverlight demonstrates considerable potential, it's undeniable that Adobe Flash currently dominates the landscape.
Flash maintains a strong position, effectively defending against emerging technologies. The central question becomes: what are your thoughts on Silverlight as a viable alternative to Flash?
A Pivotal Moment for Web Technologies
Perhaps an even more crucial consideration is whether both Silverlight and Flash will ultimately be superseded by the advancements offered by HTML5.
The evolution of web technologies is ongoing, and the future remains uncertain. Will new standards render these platforms obsolete?
- Silverlight's potential is significant, but faces an established competitor.
- Flash currently holds a dominant market share.
- HTML5 represents a potential disruptive force.
The interplay between these technologies will shape the future of rich internet applications. The industry is watching closely to see how these platforms will evolve.