How to use Shell32 within a C# application?

Just add a reference to Shell32.dll from the Windows\System32 folder and use it:

Shell32.Shell shell = new Shell32.Shell();
shell.MinimizeAll();

maybe this can help:

1. Right click project
2. Click Add reference
3. Click .COM tab in Add reference dialogue
4. Select Microsoft Shell Controls and Automation
5. Click OK

your shell32 is ready to use...

I know this thread is old, but I post this for anyone having the same problem as I did. The solution above does not compile under windows 8

Shell32.Shell shell = new Shell32.Shell(); <= this doesn't work with windows 8

Use the work around below if you want your apps to run under windows 8.

using Shell32;

private Shell32.Folder GetShell32Folder(string folderPath)
{
    Type shellAppType = Type.GetTypeFromProgID("Shell.Application");
    Object shell = Activator.CreateInstance(shellAppType);
    return (Shell32.Folder)shellAppType.InvokeMember("NameSpace",
    System.Reflection.BindingFlags.InvokeMethod, null, shell, new object[] { folderPath });
}