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Introduction to HTTP/2

May 23, 2015 .NET, Communication, CSS, HTML, HTTP, HTTP2, IIS, KnowledgeBase, Microsoft, Protocols, Visual Studio 2015, VisualStudio, VS2015, Web, Windows, Windows 10 No comments

The reason I got started with topic is that, there  were some buzz around Visual Studio 2015 RC support for HTTP/2 and Windows 8 – IIS support for HTTP/2. I was curious to learn further about the HTTP/2 and sharing my findings in this article.

About HTTP/2.

HTTP/2 is the first new version of HTTP since HTTP 1.1, which was standardized in RFC 2068 in 1997.

  • HTTP/2 enables a more efficient use of network resources and a reduced perception of latency by introducing header field compression and allowing multiple concurrent exchanges on the same connection. 
  • It also introduces unsolicited push of representations from servers to clients.
  • This specification is an alternative to, but does not obsolete, the HTTP/1.1 message syntax. 
  • HTTP’s existing semantics remain unchanged.

“ HTTP/2 allows the server to “push” content, that is, to respond with data for more queries than the client requested. This allows the server to supply data it knows a web browser will need to render a web page, without waiting for the browser to examine the first response, and without the overhead of an additional request cycle. “

Quoting from MSDN:

HTTP/2 is a new version of the HTTP protocol that provides much better connection utilization (fewer round-trips between client and server), resulting in lower latency web page loading for users.  Web pages (as opposed to services) benefit the most from HTTP/2, since the protocol optimizes for multiple artifacts being requested as part of a single experience.

The browser and the web server (IIS on Windows) do all the work. You don’t have to do any heavy-lifting for your users.

[Source: MSDN]

HTTP v1.1 vs HTTPv2

  • HTTP/2 leaves most of HTTP 1.1’s high level syntax, such as methods, status codes, header fields, and URIs, the same. The element that is modified is how the data is framed and transported between the client and the server.

At a high level, HTTP/2:

  • is binary, instead of textual  ( the reason being is – “Binary protocols are more efficient to parse, more compact “on the wire”, and most importantly, they are much less error-prone, compared to textual protocols like HTTP/1.x, because they often have a number of affordances to “help” with things like whitespace handling, capitalization, line endings, blank links and so on. “)
  • is fully multiplexed, instead of ordered and blocking
  • can therefore use one connection for parallelism
  • uses header compression to reduce overhead
  • allows servers to “push” responses proactively into client caches

Taking help of an image visualization

http-timing-diagram

Major Milestones:

  • December 2014: The HTTP Working Group presented HTTP/2 to IESG for consideration as a Proposed Standard.
  • Feb 17, 2015: IESG approved it to publish as Proposed Standard
  • May 2015: The HTTP/2 specification was published as RFC 7540

Browser Support:

  • Chrome supports HTTP/2 by default.  (from version 41)
  • Google Chrome Canary supports HTTP/2 by default. (from version 43)
  • Chrome for iOS supports HTTP/2 by default.  (from version 41)
  • Firefox supports HTTP/2 which has been enabled by default since version 34.
  • Internet Explorer supports HTTP/2 in version 11, but only for Windows 10 beta, and is enabled by default. Currently only HTTP/2 over TLS is implemented.
  • Opera supports HTTP/2 by default (from v 28 onwards)

Reference Links:

Visual Studio Tools for Apache Cordova in Visual Studio 2015 RC

May 3, 2015 ANDROID, Cordova, CSS, CSS 3, HTML, HTML5, iOS, JavaScript, jQuery, Mobile, Mobile Frameworks, Mobile SDK, Mobile Services, Mobile-Development, PhoneGap, Visual Studio 2013, Visual Studio 2015, Visual Studio Tools for Apache Cordova, VisualStudio, VS2013, VS2015, Windows, Windows 10, Windows 7, Windows 8, Windows 8 apps development, Windows 8.1, Windows Phone, Windows Phone Development, Windows Phone Store, Windows Store, Windows Store Development No comments

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Microsoft has announced that with Visual Studio 2015 – Apache Cordova tools will be integrated within the main install bundle. Using Apache Cordova Tools for Visual Studio you will be able to develop cross-platform mobile applications using single codebase for iOS, Android and Windows Phone.

With support for native device capabilities (e.g. camera, accelerometer, contact), offline scenarios and popular JavaScript frameworks (e.g. Angular, React and Backbone), the Tools for Apache Cordova contain everything web developers need for building cross-platform mobile apps using Visual Studio.

What’s new in Apache Cordova Tools for VS2015-RC

  • Grunt, Gulp, Bower and Node-based Workflows –  Starting with the RC release, it’s also much easier for you to build Cordova apps using tools familiar to many web developers.
  • New Templates from Ionic and Onsen UI – Ionic and Onsen UI templates are provided as optional to enable developers to try out the new frameworks. Each framework provides a variety of starting points to suit the most common project types. 
  • Fresh Samples, Tutorials and Documentation

Read more from Visual Studio team blog on Apache Cordova Tools for Visual Studio 2015 RC

If you are using Visual Studio 2013, then you will have to rely on Visual Studio Tools for Apache Cordova CTP3.1 (Add On) to enable cross platform mobile development using Visual Studio 2013 Update 4.

This preview release for Visual Studio 2013 Update 4 and Visual Studio 2015 RC supports building apps for the following device targets:

  • Android 4+
  • iOS 6, iOS 7, iOS 8
  • Windows 8.0 and Windows 8.1 Store
  • Windows Phone 8.0 and Windows Phone 8.1

Benefits of using Visual Studio Tools for Apache Cordova:

When you develop apps using Visual Studio Tools for Apache Cordova, Visual Studio provides these benefits:

  • Easy installation. Manual installation of Cordova involves a lot of work to find, install, and maintain the correct version of all the third-party software required to support native platforms. Visual Studio handles all that for you by including a third-party dependency installer that gets you up and running in the first hour.

  • Plugin management. Cordova plugins provide access to native APIs using a JavaScript interface. Support for custom plugins like those that turn a mobile phone into a barcode scanner are critical to an app’s success. Visual Studio makes it easy to add plugins of all kinds, including core Cordova and custom plugins. You also benefit from IntelliSense for plugins in Visual Studio.

  • Unified debugging experience. Cross-platform development often requires a different tool for debugging each device, emulator, or simulator. Different tools mean different workflows and lost productivity every time you switch devices. With Visual Studio, you can use the same world-class debugging tools for all deployment targets, including iOS devices and emulators, Android devices and emulators, Windows, and the Apache Ripple emulator.

  • Write once, deploy everywhere. The common JavaScript and plugin APIs in Cordova make it easy to write an app using a single code base that deploys to all target platforms—iOS, Android, and Windows. Of course, you can always write platform-specific code if and when you need it.

  • Command line interoperability. The Visual Studio solution directly reflects the file system and is updated in real time. This means that it is easier than ever to use your favorite command line tool with Visual Studio.

  • Multi-Version Cordova support. The Visual Studio solution allows you to select different versions of Cordova at the project level.

Quoting from MSDN Article – Getting Started with Visual Studio Tools for Apache Cordova

TO Learn more USE THE FOLLOWING RESOURCES

Introducing Visual Studio Code

May 1, 2015 .NET, .NET Framework 4.6, ASP.NET, CSS, HTML, JavaScript, Linux, Linux.World, Mac OSX, Open.Source, Operating Systems, Visual Studio Code, VisualStudio, Windows, Windows No comments

As part of Microsoft’s focused approach to bring in more value to Cross platform & Open Source based initiatives Microsoft has released Visual Studio Code IDE along with .NET Core runtime for Mac, Linux and Windows.

Visual Studio Code, a new, free, cross-platform code editor for building modern web and cloud applications on Mac OS X, Linux and Windows. Visual Studio Code is built primarily with standard web technology (HTML, CSS, JavaScript). Visual Studio Code offers developers built-in support for multiple languages (such as CoffeeScript, Python, Ruby, Jade, Clojure, Java,  Javascript,  JSON, C++, R, Go, makefiles, shell scripts, PowerShell, bat, xml), the editor will feature rich code assistance and navigation for all of these languages. JavaScript, TypeScript, Node.js and ASP.NET 5 developers will also get a set of additional tools.

vscode1

vscode2

Quoting from Visual Studio code site:

Visual Studio Code provides developers with a new choice of developer tool that combines the simplicity and streamlined experience of a code editor with the best of what developers need for their core code-edit-debug cycle. Visual Studio Code is the first code editor, and first cross-platform development tool – supporting OSX, Linux, and Windows – in the Visual Studio family.

Download:

Read more about it from below references:

Visual Studio Code Team blog – http://blogs.msdn.com/b/vscode/

Getting Started to become MCSD–Web Application Solutions Developer

March 30, 2013 .NET, .NET Framework, .NET Framework 4.5, ASP.NET, ASP.NET 4.5, ASP.NET MVC, Azure, Certification, Community, CSS 3, HTML, HTML5, IIS, IIS8, JavaScript, JumpStarts, KnowledgeBase, Microsoft, Microsoft Learning, MSDN, SignalR, VisualStudio, VS2012, Web, Web API, Web Services, Windowz Azure No comments

In this article I will introduce you to the necessary requirements for preparing and earning MCSD – Web Apps Solutions Developer certification.

In my previous article Permanent Link to Getting Started to become an MCSD in Windows Store Apps, I have introduced you to the MCSD – Windows Store Apps Developer certification exams and requirements.

Similarity between MCSD – Win Store Apps development using HTML5 and MCSD – Web Apps is that initial exam is same for both the certification titles. 70-480 is the initial exam that is required for earning both the certifications.

Earning an MCSD: Web Applications certification will qualify you for a position as a web developer or web administrator.

Below are the 3 exams required to pass to earn the title MCSD: Web Applications

  1. 70-480 – Programming in HTML5 with JavaScript and CSS3
  2. 70-486 – Developing ASP.NET MVC 4 Web Applications
  3. 70-487 – Developing Windows Azure and Web Services

Note: This MCSD certification requires you to show continued ability to perform in your chosen solution area by completing a recertification exam every two years.

Online Preparation materials: (Provided to you by Channel9 and Microsoft Virtual Academy)

70-480 – Developing in HTML5 with JavaScript and CSS3 Jump Start – FREE

70-486 –  Building Web Apps with ASP.NET Jump Start – FREE – by Scott Hanselman and Jon Galloway

70-487 – Developing Windows Azure and Web Services – no jumpstarts available yet.

Know more about MCSD: Web Applications | from Microsoft Learning

Continue your learning and all the best to you – if you are planning to take MCSD on Web Applications.

Getting Started to become an MCSD in Windows Store Apps

March 30, 2013 .NET, .NET Framework, .NET Framework 4.5, Certification, Community, CSS 3, HTML5, JavaScript, Microsoft, Microsoft SDKs, MSDN, VisualStudio, VS2012, Web, Windows, Windows 8, Windows 8 apps development, Windows Store, Windows Store Development 1 comment

Last few years Microsoft Developer Certification Exams progressed forward through two certification tracks or titles MCTS(Microsoft Certified Technology Specialist) and MCPD(Microsoft Certified Professional Developer). Earlier Microsoft certification titles been called as MCAD(Microsoft Certified Application Developer) and MCSD(Microsoft Certified Solution Developer), and Since .NET Framework 2.0 to 4.0 certifications – Microsoft renamed the titles as MCTS and MCPD respectively.  Last year onwards Microsoft has decided to return back to old titles once again.

All .NET Framework 4.5 certification series belongs to MCSD(Microsoft Certified Solutions Developer) and MTA(Microsoft Technology Associate)  titles.  Also MCSD titles have a validity of 2 years and developers have to renew their titles in every 2 years, to keep up with latest industry technology standards(earlier there was no expiry for certifications, most of the exams were valid life long) .

What is an MCSD?
The MCSD is a professional level certification that is the latest in Microsofts re-envisioning of their developer exams for the cloud. Rather than be tied to a specific qualification they are tied to the technology and re-certification is required.

What is the recertification period?
Every 2 years

To prove your Windows Store application development skills – Microsoft has introduced the MCSD on Windows Store Apps. 

There is again two tracks depending on the development platform of choice, and each title consists of 3 exams, you will have to pass all these 3 exams to earn the MCSD title on windows store apps.

1. MCSD on Windows Store Apps using HTML5/CSS3/JavaScript

  • 70-480 – Programming in HTML5 with JavaScript and CSS3 ( as a promotional offer, this exam was free until – MARCH 31st 2013, and probably most of you already earned it successfully)
  • 70-481 – Essentials of Developing Windows Store Apps Using HTML5 and JavaScript
  • 70-482 – Advanced Windows Store App Development Using HTML5 and JavaScript

2. MCSD on Windows Store Apps using XAML/C#

  • 70-483 – Programming in C#
  • 70-484 – Essentials of Developing Windows Store Apps Using C#
  • 70-485 – Advanced Windows Store App Development Using C#

Note: Exam 480 and Exam 483 validate programming skills in a specific language. By passing one of these exams you will earn a Microsoft Specialist certification.

Microsoft has released a set of FREE JumpStart tutorials/trainings for programmers who would like to study and take these exams.  Going through this online trainings and practicing would be enough for gaining proficiency in passing these exams.

Online Preparation materials: (Provided to you by Channel9 and Microsoft Virtual Academy)

70-480 – Developing in HTML5 with JavaScript and CSS3 Jump Start

70-481 – Developing Windows Store Apps with HTML5 Jump Start and prep materials

70-482 – Advanced Windows Store App Development with HTML5 Jump Start

70-483 – Programming in C# Jump Start

70-484 –Developing Windows Store App Essentials using C# (484) Jump Start – LIVE – May 2nd 2013 – REGISTER TODAY

70-485 – Not available yet

Also try these free eBooks from Microsoft Press

Free ebook: Programming Windows 8 Apps with HTML, CSS, and JavaScript

Once you complete through corresponding JumpStart materials, you will have sufficient knowledge and confidence to appear for the associated exams. Remember practice is the key, and through practice you can gain more knowledge as well.

All the best for your exams, any doubts or helps write to me.

Learn more about MCSD Windows store developer certifications:  visit MCSD: Windows Store Apps Certification | Microsoft Learning

HTML5 – Introduction to HTML5Shiv for Internet Explorer 6/7/8

January 3, 2013 All, Back-2-Bascis, Codes, CodeSnippets, Community, CSS, CSS 3, HTML, HTML5, JavaScript, KnowledgeBase, MSDN, StyleSheets, Web 2 comments

HTML5Shiv is a JavaScript workaround, discovered by Sjoerd Visscher, to enable support styling of HTML5 elements in versions of Internet Explorer prior to version 9.0, which do not allow unknown elements to be styled without JavaScript. Means your CSS classes and attributes will not be applied to the particular HTML5 specific display element, until and unless the object is available in the DOM tree.

What HTML5Shiv does is that it creates the objects for all known HTML5 elements(of the Page) in the DOM tree?. This gives the browser an implication that the particular element is supported and available in the DOM tree and it applies the specific CSS classes to the element.

Follow these simple steps to integrate HTML5Shiv to your existing page:

Step 1: Get HTML5Shiv binary – You can get HTML5Shiv binary(html5shiv.js) from  http://code.google.com/p/html5shiv/

Step 2: Insert the necessary code block in the <head> element of your html page (after or before your CSS)

code block:

<blockquote><p>&lt;!--[if lt IE 9]&gt;<br />&lt;script src=&quot;scripts/html5shiv.js&quot;&gt;&lt;/script&gt;<br />&lt;![endif]—&gt;</p></blockquote>

NB: Assuming that html5shiv.js is kept under the scripts folder under the root folder of your web application.

Lets look for a simple example:

Look at the below html sample, with an article element:

Copy the below code block  in to notepad and save as ‘test.html’ – to a location wherever you like 🙂

<!DOCTYPE HTML>
<html>
<head>
     <style>
          article {
               font-size: 22px;
               color: orange;
          }
     </style>
</head>
<body>
     <article>Hello!</article>
</body>
</html>

Try to Browse the sample in Internet Explorer 7.0(by double clicking on ‘test.html’ file) and you can see that font color and font size are not applied and as a default fallback – it is displaying text in a normal font and color. It is because browser will not apply the CSS to an unknown element, HTML5 elements are aliens 🙂 for IE 8.0 and below.

[Before – HTML5 Shiv is applied]

HTML5Code_before

Now try to apply the HTML5Shiv code block on to the above sample and see the magic. Modified code block will look like below:

&lt;!DOCTYPE HTML&gt;
&lt;html&gt;
&lt;head&gt;
&lt;!--[if lt IE 9]&gt;<br />&lt;script src=&quot;scripts/html5shiv.js&quot;&gt;&lt;/script&gt;<br />&lt;![endif]--&gt;
     &lt;style&gt;
          article {
               font-size: 22px;
               color: orange;
          }
     &lt;/style&gt;
&lt;/head&gt;
&lt;body&gt;
     &lt;article&gt;Hello!&lt;/article&gt;
&lt;/body&gt;
&lt;/html&gt;

[After – HTML5 Shiv is applied]

HTML5Code_after

Very nice! right?. Yes, it is indeed helpful for enabling backward support of your HTML5 elements styling on IE 6,7,8 versions.

DOWNLOAD and USE

You can get HTML5Shiv binary from here: http://code.google.com/p/html5shiv/

and Full original, uncompressed source available here: https://github.com/aFarkas/html5shiv

Hope you enjoy this nice tip.

Courtesy: Wikipedia and Google Code