Scripting > Python > IronPython

IronPython is an implementation of the Python programming language that runs on the .NET Framework and integrates with .NET libraries. Developed by Microsoft, it compiles Python code into .NET Intermediate Language (IL), which can then be executed by the .NET Common Language Runtime (CLR). This enables IronPython to interact seamlessly with .NET libraries and other .NET languages like C# and Visual Basic, making it useful for .NET developers who want to leverage Python's simplicity and flexibility within a .NET environment.

Some of IronPython’s key features are:

•Integration with .NET Libraries: IronPython can access .NET libraries directly, allowing Python scripts to utilize .NET functionality such as GUI components, database access, and web development libraries.

•Dynamic Language Runtime (DLR): It leverages the DLR, a .NET library designed to support dynamic languages, enhancing IronPython’s performance and enabling better inter-language operability with other .NET languages.

•Cross-Language Compatibility: IronPython allows for cross-language development, where Python scripts can call .NET code, and .NET applications can host IronPython scripts, allowing for hybrid development across the two ecosystems.

•Scripting and Automation: IronPython is often used for scripting and automation within .NET applications, providing a flexible way to add customization and automation capabilities to .NET-based systems.

While IronPython is well-suited for .NET environments, it’s worth noting that it doesn't fully support all of the Python standard library, especially libraries that rely on C-based extensions (e.g., NumPy, SciPy). Instead, IronPython users rely on .NET-based alternatives for such functionality.