In simple English
This tool helps your software generate documents, invoices and tables that users can print or save. It connects to your database and pulls information into a neat layout. You design the templates in advance using visual blocks and tables. It costs nothing to use under the MIT licence. You need some programming knowledge in C# to plug it into your application.
What it is
FastReport is an open-source reporting engine written in C# for the .NET platform. It lets your software turn raw data from databases or lists into structured documents.
What it is good for
Solo developers building software on .NET who need a reliable way to print invoices, reports or data summaries without paying for commercial software licences.
- Connects directly to many databases including PostgreSQL, MySQL, SQLite and MongoDB.
- Supports pivot tables, charts and sub-reports for complex layouts.
- Free to use in commercial projects under the MIT licence.
- PDF export in the open source version is basic and lacks advanced features like encryption.
- Requires a separate Windows desktop app or paid designer to create templates visually.
- Needs C# and .NET development skills to integrate and run.
Writing manual PDF generation code or paying for commercial .NET reporting suites.
ASP.NET Core web applications and SQLite databases.
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dotnet add package FastReport.OpenSource dotnet add package FastReport.OpenSource.Web