The .NET Framework is a robust software development platform developed by Microsoft, designed to build and run applications on Windows. Learning the .NET Framework involves understanding its core components, such as the Common Language Runtime (CLR), which manages program execution, and the Framework Class Library (FCL), which provides pre-written code for common tasks.
To start, familiarize yourself with programming languages like C# or VB.NET, which work seamlessly with .NET. Explore tools like Visual Studio, Microsoft’s integrated development environment, to write, debug, and test applications. Key topics include ASP.NET for web development, Windows Forms for desktop applications, and accessing databases using ADO.NET or Entity Framework. Tutorials and official Microsoft documentation can guide you through hands-on projects, from building simple console apps to advanced enterprise solutions.