# Generating MAP Files in Visual Studio (C++)

> Instructions for enabling MAP file generation in Visual Studio (MSVC) projects to enhance NiceProtect obfuscation.

Canonical HTML: <https://www.niceprotect.com/help/visual_studio_map_file.htm>

## Visual Studio MAP File Configuration


To generate a MAP file in **Microsoft Visual Studio**, open the project properties via **Project** -&gt **Properties**.


Ensure you are modifying the **Release** configuration. Navigate to **Configuration Properties** -&gt **Linker** -&gt **Debugging** (or **All Options**). Set the **Generate Map File** property to **Yes (/MAP)**.

![Visual Studio MAP File](https://www.niceprotect.com/images/help/visual_studio_map_file.jpg)


Upon rebuilding the solution, a `.map` file will be created in the output directory. **DotFix NiceProtect** uses this file to identify function addresses for virtualization.

**Note:** The MAP file is for internal use during the protection process and should not be distributed to end-users.