Windows 7: Installing .NET Framework 4 (But Does It Matter?)

I was not alone when Microsoft .NET Framework 4, bundled in a Windows Update this week, refused to install. It may be common knowledge by now, but the issue can be resolved by downloading the program from Microsoft Download Center: Search Results.

But does it matter? I don't fully understand what the .NET Framework programs do but have always accepted the advice to retain them all on my computer, not just the latest version. However, when installing Version 4, I realised that none of the earlier versions is on my laptop (at least, none appear alongside Version 4 in the Programs and Features list). I've apparently, then, been using my laptop for 7 months (internet, basic officework, media storage, nothing grand) without the help of .NET Framework and with no problems.

So do I really need it?

Nope.

I was getting along with 3.5 (default of Windows 7) just fine for months (almost a year actually) with no problems.

It basically comes down to:
Install it if you want, or wait until you need it.

~Lordbob

Basically, you are fine with .NET framework 3.5 unless the program that you wanna install require the appearance of .Netframework 4. For example, when Lordbob or me analyze BSODs (crash), we use a program called WinDbg, the new package of WinDbg require .NEtframework 4 in order to install (Don't know why but they required me to have if I wanna continue installing process).
It never hurt to try .NEtframework 4. I believe you can have many version of .Netframework on same system (I have framework 1,3 and 4)
When you need to have it, you will be notified by the program you are installing

Regard
Tuan

I was having the same installation problem when I tried installing it from Windows update. I also noted that it was trying to install to one of my external drives. Thanks to AlanDyson, I downloaded it from the Microsoft Download Center, shut off my external drive, rebooted, and it finally installed properly. I hope this info helps some one else.

The reason .NET 2.0-3.5 do not show up in the Programs and Features list is because it is included in Windows 7 as a Feature. On the Programs and Features page click on Turn Features On or Off on the left side and you will see .NET listed. The .NET Framework programs are Runtime programs, which is a group of files that are required to run other programs written using the .NET feature. That way each new program does not have to download the required files since they are already on your system.

I had the same problem installing the .NET Framework updates but I used the Trouble Shooting Feacture and after it ran the updates downloaded again and install OK.

Jim

There was a forced update today of .NET Framework SP1 Update for me today. And then there was an optional update of .NET Framework 4 client profile which I updated too. The first update is mentioned as important in the importance status and not the regular recommended status. So, maybe it is better to install it.

Installing the NetFramework 4 might disable the Net Framework 2 in the services.

Install the version 4 and check in the Control Panel=>Administration Tools=>Services, and set to manual the NetFramework 2.
Netframework 4 should be delayled "automatic" and 2 on "Manual" because both won't work side by side on automatic settings.

Thanks to all who replied. You helped me understand a little better why .NET Framework lives in my laptop, and even a little understanding is contentment in old age.

I'm particularly grateful to Phone Man and NoN for the guidance that earlier versions have been hiding there all along, albeit well camouflaged for a non-expert. Version 3.5.1 is where Phone Man said; it is checked, though the tick is grey. Version 2 can likewise be reached as NoN said; both entries had been disabled and I reset them to manual. So I guess I'm now properly set up unless anyone tells me otherwise.

I'm pleased that Cinderelli found the link useful but you may need to reset Version 2 as advised by NoN.

Thanks again guys.

Glad it had helped!

Too many Apps still need the NetFramework 2 and are launch with it, that's why it is important to set it, manual.

Some new programs will ask for it. For example if you install the new Microsoft Expression Studio 4, it will ask for it to be downloaded and installed first. M