Search code examples
c#multiple-instancesspecial-foldersapplication-data

create unique Application Data directory for each instance of an application

I have written a c# application that it is installed as many instances, on different directories defined by the user. e.g.

C:\Program Files(x86)\MyApp1
C:\Program Files(x86)\MyApp2
C:\MyApp1
C:\MyApp2
...

I want to write/read data files in separated directories, one for each of these instances, at Environment.SpecialFolder.LocalApplicationData.

What is the best approach to use in my code in order to reference the corresponded directory from each installed executable. e.g.

C:\Program Files(x86)\MyApp1\app.exe to reference unique app dir C:\Users\xxxx\AppData\Local\MyApp1\
Solution

  • You can append a unique value onto the end of the path: C:\Users\xxxx\AppData\Local\MyApp\ghfdsjgb23

    If there is no such unique value per installation, you can use a hash of the installation path or similar.