.net

[Baz]

what is this .NET Framework that shows in windies update.Its telling me theres an update for version 4.0 but I dont remember or think I have that version installed, may be have 2 and a service pack for 2, or even 3.0 

Do I need it, can I uninstall older versions and just have 1 on my system.

[Technical Ben]

I think it's optional. If it's a security update then add it.
.net is a programming language like Java, C++ etc. So any program you have may need it.

[Steve]

Some programs require a particular version of .NET so you cannot necessarily pick and choose which version to keep.


Edit I'll re phrase that - if you know which version of .NET you need for you particular set of programs of course you can delete the others. 

[Baz]

ah right so if you delete a early version and some program needs it, then it wont work.


what if you have the latest does that not cover all versions

[MisterW]

what if you have the latest does that not cover all versions

Of course not! this is Microsoft we're talking about here

[Technical Ben]

ah right so if you delete a early version and some program needs it, then it wont work.


what if you have the latest does that not cover all versions

It does not, as each version can have totally different programming language services/options. To be safe, they install the one they need (similar to Direct X, you end up with 3 or 4 versions. ).
Also, a word of warning, I once uninstalled/broke a .net 2 instillation and it required and entire reinstall of windows (XP though), to fix. Why? .net is integrated into the OS. :/