.Net

As of the writing of this course, version 3.5 of the .NET Framework has been released. Version 3.5 includes features that encompass all facets of Windows, Web, and network development:

• Includes just under 10,000 classes, methods, and properties.
• Complies with the latest Web development standards.
• Introduces revolutionary technologies used in Windows Vista development, rich media and user experiences, workflow management, security and authorization, and complete distributed communication protocols.

The .NET Framework can also be fully extended by developers to create custom classes and types. The functionality of the .NET Framework spans the server, the workstation, and the Web. The four primary additions to the .NET Framework as of version 3.0 are:

1. Windows Presentation Foundation (WPF)
2. Windows Communication Foundation (WCF)
3. Windows Workflow Foundation (WF)
4. CardSpace

Windows Presentation Foundation (WPF)

WPF is used to develop elaborate user interfaces like those that adorn Windows Vista and managed advanced media streaming and integration. WPF is the a complete revamp of Windows Forms so that user interface, graphic, and media development is now designed around the .NET Framework.

Windows Communication Foundation (WCF)

WCF encompasses the ASP.NET Web Services and .NET remoting functionality that was contained in the .NET Framework 2.0 as well as new communication technologies.

Windows Workflow Foundation (WF)

WF is used to model complex workflow processes.

CardSpace

CardSpace is the embodiment of new security and user authorization functionality.