Updating a NuGet package in a .NET project might sound simple at first. You bump the version, restore packages, and move on. But in a mono repository, that same task can become a serious source of friction. A single upgrade can ripple across dozens of interconnected projects.
Mono repository bring many advantages. They allow teams to share code, enforce standards, and work from a single source of truth. But with shared dependencies and tight integration, updating just one package can break multiple projects. These changes require more than just technical updates; they demand coordination and planning.
Here’s a look at the key challenges and proven techniques for upgrading .NET packages in mono repository effectively.
Common Problems You’ll Face
1. Version Conflicts
When several projects rely on the same package, but require different versions, conflicts become unavoidable. One update can introduce breaking changes in other parts of the repository.
2. Complex Integration Testing
Unit tests are not enough. You need full integration testing across all affected projects. Upgrades can impact configuration, workflows, or runtime behavior.
3. Performance Regressions
Package updates sometimes include performance optimizations. But they can also introduce slowdowns. Identifying these regressions requires benchmarking and profiling in real-world scenarios.
4. Legacy Code and Breaking Changes
Older projects often depend on deprecated APIs. New versions of packages may remove or change these features, which forces teams to refactor or isolate legacy code.
5. Runtime Assembly Errors
These issues don’t usually show up during the build or test stages. A project might compile cleanly, but fail at runtime due to missing or incompatible assemblies.
6. Team Coordination
In large repository, several teams may own different parts of the codebase. Synchronizing upgrades across projects often introduces delays, especially when priorities or testing timelines don’t align.
How to Upgrade Without Breaking Everything
Centralize Dependency Management
Use files like Directory.Packages.props to manage dependency versions in one place. This helps maintain consistency and reduces version drift.
Upgrade in Small Steps
Avoid updating all packages at once. Start with the most critical updates, validate them, and move forward incrementally. This reduces risk and makes troubleshooting easier.
Validate Assemblies Before Merging
Add validation steps to your pipelines that check for missing or conflicting assemblies. Catching issues early saves time and avoids surprises during runtime.
Use Lower Environments for Testing
Deploy changes to dogfood or internal testing environments before merging. This gives teams time to test and react before anything hits production.
Be Prepared to Roll Back
If a change causes too many problems or can’t be fixed quickly, revert your change.
Keep Documentation Updated
Track what changed, why it changed, and how it was tested. Clear documentation helps future upgrades and makes it easier for new team members to follow the process.
Avoiding Runtime Assembly Errors
One of the most common problems after a package upgrade is missing assemblies at runtime. These issues don’t appear during builds and can be hard to track.
Some tips to stay ahead of them:
- Precheck for assembly compatibility as part of your validation steps
- Make sure all dependencies are accounted for in the project and centrally defined
- Merge changes only after they pass testing or staging environments
- Schedule buffer time before releasing to production to catch late issues
- Revert quickly if a broad failure occurs and a fast fix isn't feasible
Manual Upgrade Tips That Actually Help
Even with automation, some upgrades require manual work. Visual Studio Code is a great tool for navigating large mono repository.
For SDK-style projects, search for:
PackageReference Include="Package.Name.Here" Version
This finds all references and lets you verify or update them easily.
For older projects, search for:
$(Pkg_Package_Name_Here_
Adding the underscore helps you spot version-specific overrides that need to be removed or updated.
To find binding redirects, search:
assemblyIdentity name="Package.Name.Here"
This helps you locate version mismatches that might affect runtime behavior.
Final Thoughts
Upgrading .NET packages in mono repository is rarely straightforward. It involves more than just version numbers. You have to coordinate across teams, run extensive tests, fix unexpected issues, and sometimes change how legacy code works.
By following a clear process and using the right tools, you can make upgrades predictable and safer. The goal is not just to stay current but to build a more stable and maintainable codebase.
A thoughtful upgrade strategy gives your team confidence, avoids disruption, and supports long-term scalability.
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