Update Deployment for Visual Studio and the .NET Framework

How to install and update the .NET Framework 1.1 on different operating systems

I've blogged previously about how confusing our servicing story is for .NET Framework 1.1 on Windows Server 2003 and 64-bit versions of Windows XP and Windows Server 2003. Now there's a new KB article in the Microsoft Knowledge Base to help customers understand and address these and other issues regarding .NET Framework 1.1 on various operating systems. Check it out: KB915756.

.NET Framework 1.1 Servicing Releases on Windows Update for 64-bit Systems

Among the most confusing stories that we have asked .NET Framework customers to understand has been .NET Framework 1.1 support on Windows Server 2003 and 64-bit versions of Windows. I've blogged about this before. Today I get to tell you that we've done right by putting .NET Framework 1.1 servicing releases on Windows Update for 64-bit platforms.

Deployment Channels

I stated in an earlier post that "I am the person in charge of getting product updates (service packs and hotfixes) for Visual Studio and the .NET Framework into distribution channels like Windows Update, Microsoft Update, and the Microsoft Download Center." It occured to me that some of you might care which updates go where. If you do, read on!

.NET Framework Installer Technologies: A Primer

Updates for the the .NET Framework 1.1 come in two flavors: One set of packages for 32-bit x86 versions of Windows Server 2003 and a different package for everything else. Similarly, updates for the .NET Framework 1.0 come in two flavors as well: One set of packages for Tablet PC and Media Center editions of Windows XP, and a different set of packages for everything else. Confused? You're not alone. I'll try to help.