process - What exactly happens when you run a .NET executable (step by step to the point where the program is loaded and running)? -

when run .net executable, takes place, step step in order. basic understanding run executable, clr checking, compiles cil platform specific code, loads along specified required dll's (as specified in manifest(s)) , runs program.

can elaborate on this, down "it allocates memory , that" level? know happening when double-click on executable when program running.

p.s. diagrams, external links welcome. :-)

there's reason information isn't accessible - because microsoft have learnt publish has remain fixed time (source: 90% of raymond chen's blog).

the ecma standard available here, though appears table of contents may not cover material after. specifies structure, though not internal implementation details.

for specific internal details, need provide at least exact version of .net framework interested in (and we'll ignore other clrs such mono) , details of program running.

if have practical (ie. debugging) reason needing these details, start executable windbg , step through loading process. (this work interests sake, though may not enjoyable.)

finally, mono open source, can browse code see how chose implement it. there no guarantee identical way microsoft implemented theirs, academic exercise either should sufficient.