Do i need 3.5 .net framework

Hi,
My new Windows update is telling me to download and install ".net framework 3.5" . Do I really need this download,what does it do,I do not have any programs that need it at the moment. Could someone plz expain this program and why it's needed.

HP
Windows 7 Home
64 bit

Marlene,
Hugsssssssssssss,

 

Having looked around the web when my MS updates asked the same thing, i found no compelling reason to install it, so i will wait until such time as a program tells me it is needed

 

I agree with BILLMCC66, if your computer hasn`t informed you that you need .netframework 3.5 to run a certain program, I wouldn`t concern myself with installing it. I am sure opinions will vary, but then I am more a minimalist when it comes to putting things on my computer that I don`t really need at the present time. When you do install a program that requires 3.5, don`t worry, the computer well let you know., then just download it and install.

 

If M$ classify it as Important, then it's important, not Optional.

 

Hi Guys,
Thank you for all your help,I was browsing the internet on the subject and I ran across this site that will tell you if Net Framework is installed on you computer. Well I already have 2.0 on my PC so 3.5 would be an upgrade,I will install the newer version.

http://www.echometer.com/software/qrod/dotnet.htm

Thanks again,
Marlene
Hugsssssssssssssssss

 

That isn't how it works. 3.5 isn't an upgrade to 2.0, it's a separate installation, so if you install 3.5 you will end up with both.

However on my Win 7 today's update was an update to 3.5 SP1, so are you sure you don't already have 3.5?

 

Marlene, if you look in Control Panel > Programs and Features in the left pane, Turn Windows Features On or Off, you will find .NET 3.5.1 listed. Also, you won't find 2.0. That site doesn't work properly.

 

Hey Earthling,

I figured that out when I went back to the site and it still said I had 2.0 after I installed 3.5. If you look in the registry under
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\NET Framework Setup\NDP
you'll find all your versions there. I found that last night.

Thanks again,
Marlene
Hugssssssssssssssss

 

Yes 3.5 does come installed with windows 7 and also you need 3.5 net framework to work windows live messenger without that live messenger will not work.

Also some games require 3.5 net framework to play online gaming.

Andy

 

Hi Marlene: Glad you asked that question. I have one on the same matter. I have Windows Vista Home Premium 64-bit with service pack 2. Can I and should I download service pack 3.5?