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Application Menu In Windows Forms Ribbon (Syncfusion)

Sample date Updated on Apr 02, 2026
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ribbon ribbon-application-menu syncfusion wpf

This sample shows how to add and configure the Office-style Application Menu for the Syncfusion Windows Forms Ribbon control. It covers both the Backstage (full-page) and classic drop-down Application Menu styles, demonstrates adding tabs/commands, images, keyboard shortcuts, and saving/loading settings to create a polished, Office-like user experience.

Features

  • Backstage view: full-page file menu with tabs and command buttons
  • Classic drop-down Application Menu with recent items and separators
  • Ribbon integration with tabs, groups, and quick access toolbar (QAT)
  • Images, descriptions, and keyboard shortcuts for menu commands
  • Recent documents list and custom footer/header areas
  • Enable/disable items and runtime updates
  • Localization-ready labels and tooltips
  • Theme support consistent with Ribbon visual styles

Getting Started

  1. Create a Windows Forms App project in Visual Studio.
  2. Install the NuGet package:
    • Project > Manage NuGet Packages > Browse > install "Syncfusion.Windows.Forms.Tools".
  3. Add a Ribbon control to your form:
    • From the Toolbox, drag "RibbonControlAdv" onto the form (or create it in code).
  4. Choose an Application Menu style:
    • Backstage: add a BackStageView to the Ribbon and populate with BackStage tabs and buttons.
    • Drop-down Application Menu: configure the Ribbon's ApplicationMenu with menu items.
  5. Add commands:
    • File actions like New, Open, Save, Save As, Print, Options, and Exit.
  6. Customize visuals and behavior:
    • Assign images, tooltips, and shortcuts. Enable/disable items based on app state.
  7. Run the app and verify the Application Menu behavior.

Usage Tips

  • Choose Backstage for a modern, full-page file experience; use the drop-down menu for compact layouts.
  • Populate a Recent Documents list and bind it to your MRU model.
  • Provide accessible names, tooltips, and keyboard shortcuts for all commands.
  • Keep destructive actions (e.g., Exit) separated by a visual divider.
  • Align the Ribbon theme with your app’s style for consistency.

About the Sample

This repository provides a focused example of configuring the Application Menu in the Syncfusion Windows Forms Ribbon, including both Backstage and drop-down styles. Extend it by adding your own controls, models, and services to match your application’s workflow.

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