.NET Framework

.NET Framework (pronounced dot net) is a product of Microsoft. It is a programming framework used by Software applications in order to run.^[1] It has two major parts: the Common Language Runtime (CLR) and the .NET Framework Class Library. The CLR is an execution engine used to handle running programs. The class library provides a library of reusable code that applications can use.^[2] These are designed to greatly simplify the development of larger applications.^[2] .NET Framework supports Object-oriented programming (OOP).^[3] Everything in .NET is contained in an object.^[3] It also greatly simplifies Windows programming.^[3]

Often, a program will ask for a particular version of .NET Framework to be installed (see below).^[4] It is usually recommended to install the latest version your operating system (OS) will support.^[4] This is because of backward compatibility; the newer version will also support older versions.

Visual Studio is the major development tool for .NET Framework. Visual Studio 2013 Community Edition is the first full-featured edition for personal development. It also has compilers for computer programming languages such as C++ and others.

1. ↑ Chandan Sinha, .Net Framework - Quick Reference Guide (Google e-book, 2014), p. 11
2. ↑ ^{2.0 2.1} Thuan Thai; Hoang Lam, .NET Framework Essentials (Beijing: O'Reilly, 2003), p. ix
3. ↑ ^{3.0 3.1 3.2} Tim Patrick (7 September 2007). "An Introduction to .NET for Beginners". Pearson Education, Informit. Retrieved 30 December 2014.
4. ↑ ^{4.0 4.1} Kevin Purdy (13 April 2011). "What Is the .NET Framework, and Why Do I Need It?". lifehacker. Retrieved 30 December 2014.