The venerable .NET Framework is now offered as an independent installation package, catering to applications needing it on contemporary Windows operating systems.
Microsoft’s .NET Framework 3.5, a development platform introduced in November 2007, will no longer be provided as an optional feature within Windows. Its distribution model has been shifted to a standalone installer for all upcoming Windows releases.
According to a Microsoft announcement made on February 5, starting with Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 27965, users will need to acquire .NET Framework 3.5 through a separate installer if their applications depend on it for newer Windows builds. This alteration pertains to all subsequent Windows platform updates but will not impact Windows 10 or any preceding Windows 10 versions up to 25H2.
Microsoft stated that this modification to .NET Framework 3.5’s distribution reflects its lifecycle stage, given that its support period concludes on January 9, 2029. Users are advised to commence planning upgrades to more current, actively supported iterations of .NET. Comprehensive resources, including installation files, compatibility information, and suggested upgrade strategies, are available on Microsoft Learn for those with applications reliant on .NET Framework 3.5.
