The .NET Framework is a vital component of Windows that serves as a great platform to develop and execute the next generation of applications and XML Web services. The .NET Framework is designed with number of functions to fulfill some important needs of programming world. Following are some of the functions on which .Net Framework is based upon:

• It provides object-oriented programming environment whether object code is stored and executed locally or via internet, executed remotely.
  
  
• It has code-execution environment that reduces the problem of software deployment and versioning.
  
  
• Code-execution environment provides safe execution of code even if it is being created by semi-trusted third party.
  
  
• .Net Framework’s code-execution environment has eliminated the performance problems of scripted or interpreted environments.
  
  
• It provides consistent environment and developer experience across different types of applications, such as Windows-based applications and Web-based applications.
  
  
• .NET Framework tries to ensure that it can be integrated with any other code. 

The .NET Framework has 2 main components:

• The common language runtime
  
  
• .NET Framework class library

Common Language Runtime

.Net Framework provides a run-time environment that executes the code and provides services for making the process of development easier. The common language runtime works as an agent that manages code at execution time, providing key services such as memory management, thread management, and remoting. .Net Framework compilers and tools help the developers to target the principle of runtime environment by providing managed code approach for developing applications. Benefits of managed code targeting runtime include cross-language integration, exception handling, enhanced security, versioning support, and debugging and profiling services.
Other features of common language runtime:

• Cross Language Inheritance
  
  
• Garbage Collection and automatic memory allocation and release
  
  
• Self describing objects
  
  
• Ability to run once compiled version on any CPU or Operating system that supports the runtime.

.Net Framework Class Library

The .Net Framework includes classes, interfaces, value types that facilitate the development environment to integrate with system functionality. .Net Framework components, controls and applications all are built upon using these class libraries. Functions of Class Library types include:

• Represent base data types and exceptions.
  
  
• Encapsulate data structures.
  
  
• Perform Input/Output (I/O).
  
  
• Access information about loaded types.
  
  
• .NET Framework security checks.
  
  
• Provide data access and provide rich and controlled GUI.

Before getting .Net training you must know that what is .Net?