With the release of Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central version 26, Microsoft has introduced a highly requested feature that simplifies life for developers — the ability to generate a launch.json file in Business Central directly from the web client.
This eliminates the need for tedious, manual configuration in Visual Studio Code and makes project setup faster, error-free, and more efficient, whether you’re working in cloud sandboxes or on-premises deployments.
What Was the Challenge Before This Update?
Before version 26, developers had to manually create and edit the launch.json file, which included:
- Copying and pasting environment-specific data
- Selecting correct server and authentication types
- Defining startup objects like pages or reports
- Troubleshooting configuration errors for hours
Even a small mistake—like a wrong URL or missing parameter—could prevent successful deployment or debugging. The process was error-prone, especially for new team members or consultants switching between multiple environments.
What’s New in Business Central v26?
With this latest update, Microsoft has added a “Download AL Project Configuration” feature to the web client’s Page Inspection Tool.
This means:
- No more guessing the right values.
- No more cross-referencing documentation.
- One-click download of a perfectly configured launch.json.
It’s a huge win for AL developers who want to get started quickly without the manual overhead.
What is launch.json and Why Is It Important?
The launch.json file is essential in Business Central AL development setup. It defines how your extension is deployed and debugged from Visual Studio Code.
Key configuration details include:
- The target environment (cloud or on-prem)
- The authentication method
- The server instance
- The startup object, such as a page or report
With version 26, Microsoft has simplified this process by allowing developers to generate this file automatically from the web client, removing guesswork and manual entry.
Prerequisites to Use This Feature
Before you get started, ensure you have the following:
- Business Central v26 (SaaS or On-Prem)
- Visual Studio Code
- AL Language extension installed
- Access to a sandbox or production environment
- A basic AL project folder already set up
Step-by-Step Guide: Generate launch.json from the Web Client
Setting up thelaunch.json file manually was once a frustrating part of the development process—especially when managing multiple environments or trying to debug quickly. With version 26, Microsoft has made it easier than ever to get started in just a few clicks.
Whether you’re a seasoned AL developer or just getting started with Business Central, here’s how you can take full advantage of this new feature:
🔹 Step 1: Open the Web Client
Log into your Business Central environment using a web browser.
🔹 Step 2: Access the “Help & Support” Page
Click the question mark icon (?) in the top-right corner and select Help & Support from the dropdown.
🔹 Step 3: Generate launch configurations in the VS Code workspace
Scroll down to the Troubleshooting section and click Generate launch configurations for this environment. This opens the generate launch configurations for this environment Tool, a valuable resource for developers and support teams.
Another way to generate launch.json from the Web Client
Open the “Extension management” page and click on the “Develop on VS Code” tab to download the launch.json file, and click on the “Generate launch configurations” action to download
🔹 Step 4: Add It to Your Project
Move the downloaded launch.json file into your AL project’s .vscode folder. You’re now ready to deploy and debug with the correct settings in place.
Final Thoughts: Small Update, Big Impact
The ability to generate a launch.json file directly from the Business Central web client in version 26 is a game-changer for AL developers . It simplifies the setup process, reduces errors, and saves time. Whether you’re configuring a new project or onboarding a new team member, this feature makes the experience smoother and more intuitive.
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💬 Got questions or want to automate more of your Business Central processes?
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