Knowing which .NET framework version is installed on your computer can come in handy, especially if you’re a developer. Using the correct version of this runtime framework is essential since certain apps can only run on specific .NET framework versions.
If you’re wondering which dot NET framework version you have on your PC, you’re in the right place.
Let’s dive into this article as I’ve thoroughly discussed all the methods to quickly check the .NET framework version on any Windows PC.
What is Microsoft .NET Framework?
Microsoft .NET (also known as dot NET) Framework is a software framework used by developers to build and run various apps and services. It’s a free, open-source framework that has become a very popular development environment for programmers.
This framework basically provides a common set of libraries and APIs for developers to easily build and maintain programs and services for Windows OS. This tremendously helps the devs and programmers as they don’t have to worry about low-level coding.
It also includes built-in security features to prevent any unauthorized access or data breach/theft. The developers can write their source code in any runtime language as they please since the .NET framework supports multiple programming languages.
In a nutshell, the dot NET framework is Microsoft’s platform for developing and deploying apps/services. It is absolutely necessary to properly run various programs on Windows OS.
Check Which .NET Framework Version is Installed on Your PC
To find what Microsoft .NET framework is installed on your machine, type regedit in the Windows search bar and hit Enter to open Registry Editor. Now, go to HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE > Microsoft > NET Framework Setup > NDP & you’ll see all the dot NET framework versions are listed under the NDP subkey.
There are also other methods that you can follow to achieve the same result. Below, I have shortlisted all the concise methods to determine the .NET framework version on your PC in no time.
Here’s how to check the dot NET framework version:
Method 1: Via File Explorer
- Open File Explorer on your PC.
- Click on the address bar and paste the following path:
C:\Windows\Microsoft.NET\Framework - Hit Enter.
- Double-click to open the last folder. It’s usually the one that shows the latest version; for me, it’s v4.0.30319.
- Select and right-click on any of the .dll files and select Properties from the context menu.
- Click on the Details tab.
- Check the Product version section. Here, you’ll see the .NET framework version of your computer.
Method 2: Via Registry Editor
- Press Windows key and type regedit.
- Hit Enter. Click Yes if you see any Windows security pop-up.
- Go to HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE > SOFTWARE > Microsoft > NET Framework Setup > NDP. All installed .NET framework versions will be listed under the NDP registry.
- Expand the latest version key. For me, it’s v4.
- Check the Version string’s data section from the right side pane. That number is the installed version of the .NET framework on your PC.
Method 3: Via CMD
- Press Windows Key+S and type command prompt.
- Right-click on Command Prompt and select Run as administrator.
- Type the following line in the dialogue box: reg query “HKLM\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Net Framework Setup\NDP” /s
- Hit the Enter button.
- Check the Version field to see all the installed .NET framework versions. The second last one is the latest installed version.
Here is the easy step to create folders from CMD in Windows.
Method 4: Via PowerShell
- Click on the Windows search bar and type powershell.
- Right-click on Windows PowerShell and select Run as administrator.
- Paste the following command in the dialogue box:
Get-ChildItem ‘HKLM:\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\NET Framework Setup\NDP’ -Recurse | Get-ItemProperty -Name version -EA 0 | Where { $_.PSChildName -Match ‘^(?!S)\p{L}’} | Select PSChildName, version - Press Enter. The dialogue box will show the .NET framework version in the Full section.
Follow our guide to check CPU usage using PowerShell.
These methods will work for any Windows OS. The current latest version of the dot NET framework is v4.8. So, if your computer has an older version installed, consider downloading the latest one from Microsoft’s official site.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the latest version of the .NET framework?
The latest version of the .NET framework at this moment is v4.8.1.
How do I update my .NET framework version?
To update your computer’s .NET framework version, simply download and install the latest .NET framework from Microsoft’s official site.
What is the difference between .NET and .NET framework?
The key difference between .NET and .NET frameworks is that .Net works on all platforms(Windows, Linux, Mac), while the .NET framework is limited to Windows only.
Wrapping Up
Personally, I prefer checking the .NET framework version by using PowerShell as it’s the most straightforward and hassle-free way to do so. But the three other methods are also very easy to follow.
Anyway, hopefully, this write-up has helped you find the dot NET framework version of your computer. If you have any questions on this topic, feel free to share your thoughts in the comments below.
Have a good one!
