For solutions, projects, folders, and files, properties can be defined that are used by the project system in the build process. These property values can be viewed and modified by using the Properties window in conjunction with the Project Explorer. As you select items in the Project Explorer, the Properties window will list the set of relevant properties.

Some properties are only applicable to a given item type. For example, linker properties are only applicable to a project that builds an executable file. However, other properties can be applied either at the file, project, or solution project node. For example, a compiler property can be applied to a solution, project, or individual file. By setting a property at the solution level, you enable all files of the solution to use that property's value.