Do I need both 2005 and 2008 versions of these?

Two versions of Microsoft Visual C++ are on my computer (Home Premium 64bit). Are both needed? is it possible that they result from the migration of files from my old XP?

The visual redist is a runtime library, a way to share a set of functions among different programs. All programs created using Visual C++ 2005 require it. Redistributable runtimes are mostly installed silently, so you need not be worried about it.

Visual C++ 2008 is the newer version, it'll be required to load programs that were created by using it.

Keep both versions so you can use older programs that need 2005.

Obviously Bill2's telepathic abilities sussed I'd need a succinct explanation. OTOH perhaps he read my other OPs.

Thanks all