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Thread ID: 99964 2009-05-21 11:27:00 What is Microsoft .NET Framework needed for? Robin S_ (86) Press F1
Post ID Timestamp Content User
775600 2009-05-21 11:27:00 Microsoft Update wants to install "Microsoft .NET Framework 3.5 SP1 and .NET Version 2.0 through 3.5 (KB951847) x 86" on my wife's laptop. This is the update with which Oxie had a problem a couple of days ago, but that is easily fixed. What does Framework do and for what apps/utilities/processes is it needed? She has XP Pro, Office XP (without Publisher), Photoshop Elements 6 (hardly used) and that's about all of significance. She uses Eudora client for email, and not Outlook (for anything) or OE, and does nothing in the way of gaming, videos or music. I have an idea that I saw Framework mentioned when installing software for a digital camera recently. I see no point in installing the sizeable SP1 if she has no use for it.

And in similar vein, what is M$ CAPICOM used for? Is there any need to update that?

1.1 GHz, 256MB RAM
Robin S_ (86)
775601 2009-05-21 18:26:00 Not really a top essential,C here,msdn.microsoft.com kjaada (253)
775602 2009-05-21 21:28:00 I am sure that if you need it, you will know about it as the programs that require it will have crashed. I run GBPVR (media/PVR suite) and it is written with .net technology so I need .net framework installed. And you have to have the right version! But I don't need 3.5 so I have held back from installing this version.

So, in short, you can happily ignore it (for now!).
linw (53)
775603 2009-05-22 06:18:00 Also, not need to update M$ CAPICOM.

Its quite old and MS is replacing it with .net framework stuff

Blam
Blam (54)
775604 2009-05-22 12:46:00 Thanks for the replies. Will skip them both. Robin S_ (86)
775605 2009-05-22 22:05:00 I have got to have .Net Framework as a couple of programs on my computer won't work without it. I would install it. I think it is one of those must have programs like Java, Flash player and Adobe reader.
:)
Trev (427)
775606 2009-05-22 22:35:00 If you don't have these installed, no need to update them, I think in Windows Update they will show as Recommended or Optional (www.microsoft.com) if they are not already installed.

If you already have earlier versions installed it's advisable to update, because there will probably be performance and security improvements for any programs that use those components.

For the same reason it's important to keep Java updated if you have it installed.
Saucy (14844)
775607 2009-05-22 22:38:00 You dont need net framework, but if you're using something like the ATI drivers, it MUST be installed, or it wont work properly. Whatever program you download, read what it requires before you install it. Speedy Gonzales (78)
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