Program Debug Database files in a Release output folder

Question

I've switched over my solution's Build configuration to Release mode and now have an output in the "Release" folder instead of in the "Debug" one.
But still the Release output contains Program Debug Database files. Why is that? When should I keep them, when and how should I get rid of them?

Answer 1

The debug database files (.pdb or "symbol files") contain debug information, such as line numbers, to enable easier debugging.

When present, exception stack traces will contain the actual source file full path and line number.

It is up to you whether to distribute these along with your application.

In order to not create pdb files in Release configuration:

1. Go to your project's Properties.

2. Under "Build" tab, select "Advanced" (on the buttom).

3. For "Debug Info", select "None".

Note that this will not affect any references assemblies (their .pdb files will be copied to your project's output folder.

Read more about Symbols here: Program Database Files (C#, F#, and Visual Basic)