How to Configure WCF Services in Windows 8

Introduction

In this article we are explaining how to configure WCF Services in Windows 8 for Visual Studio 2012. In previous versions of Windows when we want to configure WCF Services then we simply install IIS and then run the " aspnet_regiis -i " command in the Visual Studio command prompt. But the problem with Windows 8 is that this option is not supported for this version of the operating system.

By default on Windows 8 when we try to add a services reference to any application in Visual Studio 2012 then the following error occurs:

How to enable WCF services in Windows 8

Step 1

Go to the search box and type "Turn windows on or off" then click on "Settings". Click on the application that appears in the results window.

Step 2

In the "Windows feature" window go to ".NET Framework 4.5 advanced services" > WCF Services" and enable to "HTTP Activation". Click on "OK" to install the services.

Step 3

Wait a few minutes to install the feature. A message will appear notifying you that the feature has been installed. Click on "Close".

Step 4

Now go to Visual Studio 2012 and try to add the services reference.