Obtaining the .NET Framework 2.0

The Easiest Way

The easiest way to see if you need Microsoft .NET Framework 2.0 is to run the setup program for the tool you are trying to use. If you need the .NET Framework version 2.0, the setup program will download the correct edition from the internet and install it for you. This is the easiest option if you have a fast internet connection (such as Broadband or over a corporate network link).

The Microsoft Way (easiest manual way)

The easiest manual way to get the Microsoft .NET Framework 2.0 is to use Microsoft Internet Explorer to visit http://windowsupdate.microsoft.com/. Then follow the steps below. Note that the exact details may vary slightly depending on your computer, but the outline below shows the main steps. Windows Update will only show you the most appropriate edition of the .NET Framework 2.0 for your machine.

Click the Custom button.
Let the site check your machine over (you may be asked to install a control in order to do this).
Click the "Software, Optional" section in the list on the left.
Make sure that the Microsoft .NET Framework 2.0 component has a tick next to it in the list on the right.
Click Review and Install Updates.
Click the Install Updates button on the next page.
Wait for the updates to be installed and follow any instructions given.

Without using Windows Update

You can download the .NET Framework 2.0 without using the Windows Update site by visting this link http://msdn.microsoft.com/netframework/downloads/updates/default.aspx.

You will need to download one of the x86 editions of the framework, not any mentioning the word "SDK". Be sure not to download the 64-bit version unless you have a 64-bit computer and a 64-bit edition of Windows.