Solved Are .NET Framework Updates REALLY Necessary?

markaz

Power User
I do manual updates instead of auto. Except for a video problem that just started occurring I've had no issues with my computer or software. As I look at the list of .NET Framework updates that I have not installed I really have to wonder if these are really necessary for John Q. User. Any opinions?
 

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Thanks, Rich. Multiple opinions in the link that favor the installations. One last question...These are the .NET Framework updates that have yet to be downloaded and installed. Do all need installation for functionality or should I just zero in on the latest update(s)? Quite frankly, I'm a little leery as I have read of so many problems after the installs and would like to minimize the chance(s) of any problems if I can get by with one or two.
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Mark, trust me, I hear you, but when it comes to security I must say they should be installed. I know that the upadates can cause problem. Two months ago I had to reinstall with an image from Reflex Macrium, because I could no longer boot after the updates. Updates just to have the most recent are not necessary, but security updates are a must. Think of what could happen is someone got your bank password etc. I could not say ignore them. I update whenever I have a security updates, but have hidden (not installed others).
 

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    Intergrated 7.1 Channel Audio
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    Dell SP2009W 20 inch Flat Panel w Webcam
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Thanks ofr your insights, rich.
 

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    HP Pavilion s3700y (PC)
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    AMD Athlon 64 X2 Dual Core 5000+
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    3GB Micron Technology (PC2-6400)
    Graphics Card(s)
    NVIDEA GeForce 8400GS
    Sound Card
    Realtek High Def Audio
    Monitor(s) Displays
    Compaq WF1907
    Screen Resolution
    1360x768
    Hard Drives
    Western Digital 320GB
    Case
    Slimline
    Cooling
    A little fan
    Keyboard
    eMachines Enhanced Multimedia
    Mouse
    Logitech M305
    Internet Speed
    2703 kbps
I agree that the updates to .net framework are important if you have it installed however, correct me if I'm wrong, you are questioning whether or not installing .net framework is necessary. The answer to that lies in the programs that you install. As an example I once had software for a phone I had that allowed me to backup my phone, transfer pics to/from the phone, and even use it as a modem. That software required .net framework to run because it was probably programed, at least in part, in the .net programming language. It's kind of like having to have java or flashing player installed in that if you use websites that are programmed in either you will need them installed for the sites to work correctly. Microsoft likes to push the platform on you by default assuming that you need it and that I disagree with.

On a fresh install of a retail copy without anything on it you can try going without it and if you get an error from installing a program that requires it then install it. The program could be programed automatically install it. On an OAM installation some of the programs installed by the manufacturer might require it. My thoughts are if it is installed, leave it installed and update it because you might break something by uninstalling it. On a system provided by your employer you will definitely want to leave it.
 
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