The Microsoft .NET Framework 4 was released just a few days ago along with Visual Studio 2010. The framework is currently only available for download but will likely be integrated into upcoming Microsoft operating system releases and updates.
The newest iteration of the framework improves on the current ones. It introduces several new features as well as performance improvements that both developers and end users will benefit from.
Some of the more important changes are:
- Performance improvement including better processor multi-core support, background garbage collection, and profiler attach on server.
- Easier debugging including dump debugging, Watson minidumps, mixed mode debugging for 64 bit and code contracts.
- Added support for Windows 7 multi-touch, ribbon controls, and taskbar extensibility features.
- Improvements in performance and scalability.
- Visual improvements in text clarity, layout pixel snapping, localization, and interoperability.
A full list of changes is available on this Microsoft page.
Microsoft .NET Framework 4 Download
Microsoft is giving more weight to the web installer in their announcements, and did not mention a standalone installer for the new version of the framework at all in the announcement.
The standalone installer does not require an Internet connection during installation. That’s useful as it does away with any connectivity related issues during installation.
Here are the links to both the offline and online installer of the .net Framework 4.
- Microsoft .NET Framework 4 (Web Installer)
- Microsoft .NET Framework 4 (Standalone Installer)
- Update: newer versions of .Net Framework can be downloaded from the official download website.
The standalone installer has a size of 48 Megabytes and contains all the files needed to install the new framework which means it does not have to load additional components from the Internet; Ideal for installing the Microsoft .NET Framework 4 on offline computer systems with no direct Internet connection.
The web installer weights in at less than 1 Megabyte but requires an Internet connection to download the remaining components during installation.
Both links point to the English version of the .net Framework 4.
Microsoft .NET Framework 4 requires at least Windows XP SP3, Windows Vista SP1 and will run on both 32-bit and 64-bit editions of those operating systems.
Applications that require the Microsoft .net Framework 4.0 will – as usual – trigger a download of the component if it is not already installed on the user’s PC.