What exactly does installing the .net framework do?

[styrafoam]

I downloaded a program that requires the .net framework to be installed to function. Besides allowing this program to run, what other affect will installing have on a system? Does installing it have any affect on other installed programs or the operating system in general?

 

[oog]

Nothing really, except take up some space.

 

[rh71]

I had to install it for an RSS reader (which I've since deleted). .net framework is still installed and I notice no difference at all...

 

[WannaFly]

the .net framework is the equivelent(and more) of the old VB6 runtime DLL's. the VB runtimes are included with every windows OS - as the .net framework will be (its included on server 2003). Basically, it gives your program the libararies and functionality it needs - it should not affect anything on your system.

 

[Nothinman]

It's Microsoft's version of the Sun JRE, except that it's not Java. You need the .NET runtimes to run .NET applications but that's all.

 

[styrafoam]

Thanks guys---