Last modified: June 22, 2021
Release date: April 26, 2021
Why is Microsoft dropping support for .NET Framework 4.5.2, 4.6, and 4.6.1?
The .NET Framework was previously digitally signed with certificates using the Secure Hash Algorithm (SHA-1). SHA1 – is an obsolete cryptographic hash algorithm that is no longer considered secure. We remove content signed with digital certificates using SHA1 to support evolving industry standards.
After looking at the download and usage data for the different versions of the .NET Framework, we found that the vast majority (98%) would satisfy users without having to change anything. The small group of users using .NET Framework 4.5.2, 4.6, or 4.6.1 will need to upgrade to a newer .NET Framework version to remain supported. Applications do not need to be recompiled. Given the nature of this change, we've decided that targeting .NET Framework 4.6.2 and above is the best balance of support and effort.
View this support articleDiscontinuation of SHA-1 contentFor more information.
How do I know if I have installed these versions?
See the article aboutDetermine which .NET Framework versions are installed.
I still use these versions. What can I do?
If you are using .NET Framework 4.5.2, 4.6 or 4.6.1, you must upgrade to a newer runtime version, at least .NET Framework 4.6.2 and preferably .NET Framework 4.8. Note that you only need to update the deployed runtime that your apps run on. You are not expected to rebuild your app to align with the newer version.
I'm deploying my app to Azure App Service. I need to do something?
.NET Framework 4.8 is already deployed in Azure App Service. So if you're running your web app or Azure function in Azure App Service, you don't need to do anything because you're already running the latest version 4.8.
I am using a virtual machine in Azure. I need to do something?
We are working with our partner teams to ensure that guest VM images for OS families not shipped with at least 4.6.2 are updated to include this and we expect to have this available before April 2022 when we are ending support for 4.5.2, 4.6 and 4.6.1 . Until April 2022 you can continue to use .NET Framework 4.5.2, 4.6 and 4.6.1 and they are fully supported. However, if you want to immediately start validating your application functionality on the newer runtime version, you can use this guideInstall .NET Framework on Azure Cloud Services.
My app is deployed in an enterprise environment managed by Windows Server Update Services (WSUS) or System Center Configuration Manager (SCCM). What should I do?
The latest .NET Framework runtime environment - 4.8 - is available for Windows Update, Windows Server Update Services (WSUS) and Microsoft Update (MU) Catalog for client operating systems, and WSUS and MU Catalog for server operating systems.
What resources are available to me to help with this?
Here are some resources you may find helpful:
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.NET Framework-downloads
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Compatibility with .NET Framework applications
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Runtime changes between .NET Framework 4.5.2 and .NET Framework 4.6.2
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.NET Framework Migration Handbook
(Video) Quick Fix for Microsoft .NET Framework
Is .NET Framework 4.5.2, 4.6 or 4.6.1 supported on Windows Embedded 8?
.NET Framework 4.5.2, 4.6, and 4.6.1 will reach end of support on April 26, 2022, including for customers using it on Windows Embedded 8. Customers using these .NET Framework versions should plan to upgrade to a newer runtime version, at least .NET Framework 4.6.2 and preferably .NET Framework 4.8.
I am using .NET Framework 4.5.2, 4.6 or 4.6.1 on Windows Server 2008. What should I do?
Previously, .NET Framework 4.6.1 and earlier versions did not support Windows Server 2008, but .NET Framework 4.6.2 and later versions did not. As part of this end of support update, .NET Framework 4.6.2 has been updated with Windows Server 2008 as the supported platform. Customers using .NET Framework 4.5.2, 4.6, or 4.6.1 on Windows Server 2008 should plan to move to .NET Framework 4.6.2.
Note: Newer versions of .NET Framework 4.7 and above do not support Windows Server 2008.
I am using Windows 10 2015 LTSC which is bundled with .NET Framework 4.6. What should I do?
Windows 10 Enterprise LTSC 2015 comes with .NET Framework 4.6 built into the operating system. This OS version is an LTSC (Long Term Servicing Channel) version. We will continue to support .NET Framework 4.6 on Windows 10 Enterprise LTSC 2015 until the end of support for the operating system version (October 2025).
Are there major changes in .NET Framework 4.5.2? Why are you making these changes?
There are a very small number of changes in .NET Framework 4.5.2 that are not fully compatible with previous .NET Framework versions. We call these runtime changes. We only include these changes when absolutely necessary for security reasons, to comply with industry standards, or to resolve a previous incompatibility within the .NET Framework. Additionally, there are some changes in .NET Framework 4.5.2 that will only be enabled when you recompile your application with .NET Framework 4.5.2. We call these changes retargeting changes.
More information on application compatibility, including .NET runtime and retargeting changes between versions of the .NET Framework 4.x family, can be found hereHere.
Do I need to recompile/rebuild my applications to use .NET Framework 4.6.2 and later versions?
.NET Framework 4.6.2 and later versions are compatible in-place updates of earlier .NET Framework 4.x versions, including 4.5.2, 4.6, and 4.6.1. This means that we expect applications built on earlier versions of .NET Framework 4.x to continue to run on .NET Framework 4.6.2 and later versions without modification. Recompilation of apps for these versions is not required. All you need to do is update the runtime version. We recommend that you test your application's functionality against the newer .NET Framework runtime before deploying it to production.
I use ClickOnce or a Visual Studio Installer project to implement .NET Framework 4.6.2 or later as a requirement for my app. What should I do?
The installers for .NET Framework 4.6.2 and later have been rebuilt. So if you use a bootstrapper to implement .NET Framework 4.6.2 or later as a requirement for your app, you need to updatepublic keyAttribute in the Product.xml and Package.xml files so that the ClickOnce bootstrapper can correctly detect the updated .NET installation packages.
Product.xml is used for English products and is located in the root of the bootstrapper version. For example, in the case of .NET Framework 4.6.2, this file would be located in %ProgramFiles(x86)%\Microsoft SDKs\ClickOnce Bootstrapper\Packages\DotNetFX462\.
You can also find several Package.xml files in locale-specific directories. These are used to implement .NET Framework language packs with your application.
You must update the valuepublic keyattribute for the//Paket/PackageFiles/PackageFileElement for this value:
3082010a0282010100b6bb19591000a3a9f1e4b85ca80b07cbdb9a1f23d0d958ab78c048f7241438f063edd54b03bfcdf809ca1450f327b3fe82b4fa1a4384e1 cbf9 1b38e83fcc9027ac97a2310a917b62ec75bfcd488da05d75fd95a775ff23d40ce5e8e063703e35ead49662f87655f756d4afa663cde3e3d60f9b7a9b2a77f1c 2 d5749c 8f47d3dda0312d1ca4252cc4c4406653d792cae3b052eabe0ab8ae750b5618c74953ae74bff2a6cdf338e98ea5a3f3029e7a6fcf7cc42fb3cc754770aa3fe7 62 11 86 dd45 482f15fbb4074c6f3ecb37ee96388a53d40e35af06a83959effbc51af781f0863666bb54bbdf2795ed1659371a2111e8098bd618b2c5daed4654524082 03 e2a7 0203 0 10001
Note that there are two instances of the //Package/PackageFiles/PackageFile element in Product.xml and one in each Package.xml file. All instances must be updated with the correct public key.
See this article for more informationBuild bootstrapper packagesMore information can be found here.
If you use another bootstrapper like the WiX Bootstrapper (Burn) you mentionedBurn the required installation documentation for .NET FrameworkFor more information.
I am using .NET Framework 3.5 SP1 - can I continue to use it?
There is no change to the support lifecycle for .NET Framework 3.5 SP1. To seeThis pagefor specific information regarding the end of support for .NET Framework 3.5.
My application distributes an installation version of .NET Framework that is no longer supported. What should I do?
You should schedule to ship a supported .NET runtime installer (4.6.2 or later) with the next scheduled update for your app. If your application is in an environment where the end user receives updates from Windows Update, your app is most likely already running on .NET Framework 4.8, as .NET Framework 4.8 has been widely deployed through Windows Update. If your app is used in an environment where Windows Update is blocked or unavailable, the end user of your app may need to self-deploy .NET Framework 4.6.2 or later if your app installer doesn't do it for them.
I am using a Microsoft product such as Exchange Server, SQL Server or Sharepoint based on .NET Framework. Do I need to update these products?
Newer versions of products such as Exchange, SQL Server, SharePoint etc. are based on .NET Framework 4.6.2 or higher. .NET Framework 4.6.2 and later versions are compatible in-place upgrades of earlier .NET Framework 4.x versions. This means that an older version of an application running on .NET Framework 4.5.2, 4.6, or 4.6.1 will continue to work without changes if the .NET runtime environment is upgraded from .NET Framework 4.5.2, 4.6, or 4.6 is updated .1 to later versions. However, we recommend that you validate your deployments by first upgrading the .NET runtime to .NET Framework 4.6.2 or later in a pre-production environment before deploying a newer version in the production environment.
I am using a third-party software vendor product that installs .NET Framework 4.5.2, 4.6, or 4.6.1. What should I do?
If your computer receives updates from Windows Update, your computer is most likely already running the app on .NET Framework 4.8, as .NET Framework 4.8 has been widely deployed through Windows Update. If the app is used in an environment where Windows Update is blocked or unavailable, you should contact your application provider and ask for an updated version of the application that provides .NET Framework 4.6.2 or later.
What is the .NET Framework Support Lifecycle Policy?
To seeThis pagefor the specific end of support dates for each version of the .NET Framework.
Does this affect .NET Core and .NET 5 or later?
No. The announcement applies to .NET Framework 4.5.2, 4.6, and 4.6.1. There is no change to the support lifecycle for .NET Core and .NET 5.
FAQs
How long will .NET Framework 4.5 be supported? ›
. NET Framework 4.5. 2, 4.6, and 4.6. 1 retired on April 26, 2022.
Is .NET Framework 4.6 1 still supported? ›Support for . NET Framework 4.5. 2, 4.6, and 4.6. 1 ended on April 26, 2022.
Is .NET 4.5 no longer supported? ›NET will no longer provide updated security fixes or technical support. If you are using the dot net 4.5 frameworks, or the dot net framework 4.5. 1, 4.6 or 4.61 then you will no longer be provided with updates and/or security fixes. This is because the support for these versions reached the end of April 2022.
How long will .NET 4.6 2 be supported? ›Hi, I found this Microsoft article that indicated the 4.6. 2 . Net Framework support life follows the Lifecycle Policy of the parent OS. It is my understanding that this would be governed then by the end of life for Windows 10 Enterprise/Education which is slated for October 2025.
What versions of .NET are no longer supported? ›Starting with Visual Studio 2022, Visual Studio no longer includes .NET Framework components for .NET Framework 4.0 - 4.5.1 because these versions are no longer supported. Visual Studio 2022 and later versions can't build apps that target .NET Framework 4.0 through .NET Framework 4.5.1.
Does installing NET Framework 4.5 require a reboot? ›The . NET Framework 4.5 installer uses the Restart Manager to prevent system restarts whenever possible during installation. If your app setup program installs the . NET Framework, it can interface with the Restart Manager to take advantage of this feature.
How long will Microsoft support .NET framework? ›Net 4.8 as long as it's on a supported version of Windows. . Net Core: It's best not to target the . Net Core versions as only 3.1 currently has LTS, but that will come to an end in December, 2022.
What is replacing .NET framework? ›With the planned release of a unified platform in 2020, . NET Core will replace . NET Framework. You will be able to use it to target Windows, Linux, macOS, iOS, Android, tvOS, watchOS, WebAssembly, and more.
What is the latest supported version of .NET framework? ›Visit the Microsoft . NET Framework download website. Select the Latest Update Package Version. Download the Runtime package.
How do I upgrade .NET Framework 4.5 to 5? ›
- Create a New Folder for Your .NET Framework Project.
- Create a New File and Add the Code.
- Add the .csproj to the Existing Solution.
- Configure the Project File to Include Code.
- Add NuGet Packages.
Starting with Visual Studio 2022, Visual Studio no longer includes .NET Framework components for .NET Framework 4.0 - 4.5.1 because these versions are no longer supported. Visual Studio 2022 and later versions can't build apps that target .NET Framework 4.0 through .NET Framework 4.5.1.
Is it safe to upgrade .NET Framework? ›Upgrading to the . NET Framework is faster, safer, and generally easier to do than ever before. The . NET Framework supports all versions of Visual Studio, which is especially helpful if you're working in a group environment.
What is the difference between .NET and .NET framework? ›NET Core and . NET Framework is a platform for . NET applications on Windows whereas, NET Core is the latest version of the . NET Framework which is a cross-platform and open-source framework optimized for modern app needs and developer workflows.
Does .NET 4.6 require a reboot? ›Additional Information. Microsoft's policy for software that installs the Microsoft . NET Framework 4.6. 2 and earlier states that a reboot may be required before installing any other software.
What does it mean when a version is no longer supported? ›An unsupported version of Windows will no longer receive software updates from Windows Update. These updates include security updates that can help protect your PC from harmful viruses, spyware, and other malicious software which can steal your personal information.
Which of the versions of .NET Framework is required? ›The . NET Framework 4.6. 2 is the latest supported . NET Framework version on Windows 10 1507 and 1511.
Which Microsoft operating systems are no longer supported? ›January 10, 2023, marks the end of Microsoft's support for Windows 7 and 8.1. That means Microsoft will no longer release security and bug updates for these Windows versions from now on. But what does this mean for you?
Do I need to install all versions of NET Framework? ›It is safe to install multiple versions of the . NET Framework on your computer. Developers may want to check out . NET Framework SDKs and Targeting Packs and Targeting .
How can I run .NET Framework 4.5 on Windows 10? ›- Select Start > Control Panel > Programs > Programs and Features.
- Select Turn Windows features on or off.
- Restart the machine when prompted.
Do I need to update my .NET Framework? ›
Conclusions. Updating your project solution to the latest framework version takes some time, but it can save time and money in the long run. And this because the latest framework updates include security patches for the holes that hackers and malware know to look for.
Do people still use .NET Framework? ›The . NET framework has remained steadily popular while newer technologies have emerged, according to the Stack Overflow Developer Survey. The tech world is constantly evolving, but . NET has been Microsoft's primary developer platform since 2000, and it continues to thrive.
Is Microsoft .NET framework needed? ›You need .NET Framework installed to run applications on Windows that were created using .NET Framework. It's already included in many versions of Windows.
Should I uninstall Microsoft .NET framework? ›In general, you should not uninstall any versions of the .NET Framework that are installed on your computer, because an application you use may depend on a specific version of the .NET Framework.
Is .NET outdated technology? ›NET framework is highly outdated. Of course, the main reason behind this is the lack of cross-platform development, which was rectified in future versions released by Microsoft. Most developers and programmers prefer programming languages and frameworks that offer flexibility when working with them.
Does .NET Framework update with Windows Update? ›NET Framework updates into the Unified Update Platform or UUP-based feature update. Moving to Windows 11, version 22H2 via Windows Update will now automatically help secure your device with the latest .
Can I change .NET Framework version? ›After you create a UWP app, you can't change the targeted version of either Windows or . NET. In the Target Framework list, choose the version that you want.
How long will .NET Framework 4.8 1 be supported? ›NET Core 3.1—are LTS. Your out-of-support versions will still work, but you will miss important security and bug fixes. Because Framework 4.8 and Core 3.1 are LTS for at least two more years, you may choose to delay migration until the next LTS release (. NET 6), scheduled for November 2021.
How do I know which version of .NET Framework is installed? ›- Run command "regedit" from console to open Registry Editor.
- Look for HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Microsoft\NET Framework Setup\NDP.
- All installed .NET Framework versions are listed under NDP drop-down list.
NET 5.0 is not an LTS release and is therefore supported for 18 months, or 6 months after the next release ships, whichever is longer. . NET 5.0 support will end on May 10, 2022. When . NET 5.0 reaches end of support, applications that use this version will continue to run.
How do I update .NET on Windows 11? ›
NET Framework updates for Windows 11, version 22H2 on the Settings > Windows Update > Advanced options > Optional updates page. Control what optional updates you want to install by visiting the Optional updates page and picking them from a list.
Can you install multiple versions of NET Framework? ›Users can run multiple versions of the framework of . NET on their computers. If you are a developer and need to deploy or develop software or an app, then you will need to know which .
How to change .NET Framework 4 client profile if you change it to .NET Framework 4? ›NET Framework 4.0. Navigate to the Project toolbar item, and then select Properties (Application properties). In the Application tab, change the Target framework to . NET Framework 4.
How do I upgrade .NET Framework 4.5 to .NET 6? ›- Step 1 - Understand Your Dependencies. ...
- Step 2 - Upgrade the Visual Studio Project (csproj) Format. ...
- Step 3 - Multi-target . ...
- Step 4 - Fix Code Issues. ...
- Step 5 - High-Level Projects. ...
- Step 6 - Testing.
NET application from any initial version (. NET Framework or . NET Core) by right-clicking on your project in Solution Explorer and choose “Upgrade”.
Does updating .NET Framework require a reboot? ›NET Framework into the UUP, so users who move to Windows 11 version 22H2 will get automatic updates and will not need to reboot as many times. One time fewer than before, in fact. Think of the time you'll save.
Why can't I update my .NET Framework? ›This issue occurs because, when the Microsoft . NET Framework 4 is installed, certain components are locked or are being used until the system is restarted. These components cannot be updated until the system is restarted.
Which NET Framework is best? ›Visual studio is the primary and most preferred software used to create and build . NET framework applications in Windows and other platforms. You can technically use a third-party tool like a text editor to write C# code but Visual Studio makes your work easier.
What is the difference between .NET version and .NET Framework version? ›NET Framework Application Model includes WinForms, ASP.NET, and WPF, used for developing desktop and web apps. In contrast, . NET Core does not support desktop application development, focusing instead on the web, windows mobile, and windows store with ASP.NET and Windows universal apps.
How do you know if you are using .NET core or .NET Framework? ›- NET Core SDK in Use. Open your Command Prompt and type: dotnet --version.
- NET Core SDKs Installed. Open your Command Prompt and type: dotnet --list-sdks.
- NET Framework. The information of the .
What is the .NET Framework used for? ›
NET Framework types enable you to accomplish a range of common programming tasks, including string management, data collection, database connectivity, and file access. In addition to these common tasks, the class library includes types that support a variety of specialized development scenarios. You can use .
Is .NET 4.6 still supported? ›. NET Framework 4.5. 2, 4.6, and 4.6. 1 retired on April 26, 2022.
How do I know if .NET 4.6 is installed? ›Detect .NET Framework 4.5 and later versions. The version of .NET Framework (4.5 and later) installed on a machine is listed in the registry at HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\NET Framework Setup\NDP\v4\Full. If the Full subkey is missing, then .NET Framework 4.5 or above isn't installed.
How do I enable .NET Framework 4.6 in Windows 10? ›- On the Features dialog box, select . NET Framework 3.5 Features. Expand the container and select all the options.
- Select . NET Framework 4.6 Features. Expand the container and select all the options.
- Click Next.
- Create a New Folder for Your .NET Framework Project.
- Create a New File and Add the Code.
- Add the .csproj to the Existing Solution.
- Configure the Project File to Include Code.
- Add NuGet Packages.
Net 4.8 - Indefinite support as long as it's installed on supported operating systems.
What is the latest supported version of .NET Framework? ›NET Framework 4.8 is the latest available version.
What is difference between .NET core and .NET framework? ›Net Core is the up-to-date version of . Net Framework which is free, open-source, cross-platform (can be executed on Windows, Mac OS, Linux), and is been used to develop modern applications. Whereas . Net Framework is a platform that is used to develop ASP.NET applications that execute based only on Windows.
Will .NET core replace .NET framework? ›With the planned release of a unified platform in 2020, . NET Core will replace . NET Framework. You will be able to use it to target Windows, Linux, macOS, iOS, Android, tvOS, watchOS, WebAssembly, and more.
How do I change my .NET framework to .NET standard? ›
- In Visual Studio, select Analyze and then Portability Analyzer Settings.
- In the General Settings window, select . NET Standard 2.0 under Target Platforms, and then choose OK.
- Now, open the project file containing the code that needs to target .
The . NET framework has remained steadily popular while newer technologies have emerged, according to the Stack Overflow Developer Survey. The tech world is constantly evolving, but . NET has been Microsoft's primary developer platform since 2000, and it continues to thrive.
Do I have the latest .NET Framework? ›Use Registry Editor
In the Registry Editor, open the following subkey: HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\NET Framework Setup\NDP\v4\Full. If the Full subkey isn't present, then you don't have .NET Framework 4.5 or later installed.
Release types
LTS releases are supported for three years after the initial release. STS releases are supported for six months after a subsequent STS or LTS release. Releases happen every 12 months so the support period for STS is 18 months.
- Select the Latest Update Package Version.
- Download the Runtime package.
- Locate that file after it downloads.
- Double-click the file to start the setup wizard.
- Follow the instructions. The install wizard guides you through the setup.
- Once done reboot the PC. Shift4.
In newer windows, such as Windows 10, 8.1 and 8, . Net framework 4.5 is available as part of the OS, and is installed by default.
How do I enable .NET Framework 4.5 on Windows 10? ›- Select Start > Control Panel > Programs > Programs and Features.
- Select Turn Windows features on or off.
- Restart the machine when prompted.