Visual Studio 2005 Express Editions are free downloads
Microsoft has launched the Express Editions of Visual Studio 2005:
- Visual Web Developer 2005 Express Edition
- Visual Basic 2005 Express Edition
- Visual C# 2005 Express Edition
- Visual C++ 2005 Express Edition
- Visual J# 2005 Express Edition
Each of these is a simplified and streamlined version of Visual Studio 2005 focused on development in a single language (except Visual Web Developer, which includes Visual Basic and C#). A full run-down of the feature differences between these Express Editions and the full Visual Studio 2005 can be found in the product feature comparison matrix.
In short, all the essential features for building ASP.NET 2.0 Websites are here. The Express Editions include a simplified user interface and limited features (e.g., you can only interface with databases on your local computer), but for developers building simple sites or just getting started with .NET for Windows desktop or Web development, there’s more than enough meat in these products. Visual Web Developer Express Edition, in particular, is a must-download for anyone currently working with ASP.NET Web Matrix, though developers should note that these Express Editions are not backwards compatible with version 1.x of the .NET Framework — they can only be used to develop for .NET 2.0.
Although Microsoft had previously announced each of these Express Editions at a price point of US$49, it has instead launched them as free downloads for one year. In a year’s time, Microsoft may elect to begin charging for the software, but anyone who has downloaded it during the free download period will have it for keeps–this is not expire-ware.
Also available is SQL Server 2005 Express Edition, the successor to the aging MSDE database. Perfectly suited for use as a local database for Web development, SQL Server 2005 Express Edition will remain free for as long as the product is available.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Visual Studio 2005 Express Editions
What are the system requirements for Visual Studio 2005 Express Editions?
Visual Studio 2005 Express Editions require a system with a minimum of a 600 MHz Pentium processor, 192 MB of RAM (256 MB recommended), and 2 GB of available hard-disk space. The software is compatible with Windows 2000 Service Pack 4, Windows XP Service Pack 2, and Windows Server 2003 Service Pack 1.
Can I use Visual Studio 2005 Express Editions for commercial use?
Yes, you can use Visual Studio 2005 Express Editions for both personal and commercial use. There are no restrictions on the type of applications you can create or the use of the applications you develop.
How do I install Visual Studio 2005 Express Editions?
To install Visual Studio 2005 Express Editions, download the setup file from the official website or a trusted source. Run the setup file and follow the on-screen instructions to complete the installation. You may need to restart your computer after the installation.
Are there any known issues with Visual Studio 2005 Express Editions?
Some users have reported issues with compatibility on newer versions of Windows. However, these issues can often be resolved by running the software in compatibility mode or by installing the latest service packs and updates.
What programming languages does Visual Studio 2005 Express Editions support?
Visual Studio 2005 Express Editions support several programming languages, including Visual Basic, Visual C#, and Visual C++. Each language has its own dedicated version of the software.
Can I upgrade from Visual Studio 2005 Express Editions to a newer version?
Yes, you can upgrade from Visual Studio 2005 Express Editions to a newer version. However, you may need to modify your projects to ensure compatibility with the newer version.
What is the difference between Visual Studio 2005 Express Editions and other versions of Visual Studio?
Visual Studio 2005 Express Editions are streamlined versions of the full Visual Studio software. They are designed to be easy to use for beginners, but they still offer powerful programming features.
Can I install Visual Studio 2005 Express Editions on multiple computers?
Yes, you can install Visual Studio 2005 Express Editions on multiple computers. There are no restrictions on the number of installations.
How can I get support for Visual Studio 2005 Express Editions?
You can get support for Visual Studio 2005 Express Editions through the official Microsoft support channels. There are also numerous online communities and forums where you can ask questions and get help from other users.
Are there any tutorials or resources to help me get started with Visual Studio 2005 Express Editions?
There are many tutorials and resources available online to help you get started with Visual Studio 2005 Express Editions. These include official Microsoft documentation, online video tutorials, and community forums.
Kevin Yank is an accomplished web developer, speaker, trainer and author of Build Your Own Database Driven Website Using PHP & MySQL and Co-Author of Simply JavaScript and Everything You Know About CSS is Wrong! Kevin loves to share his wealth of knowledge and it didn't stop at books, he's also the course instructor to 3 online courses in web development. Currently Kevin is the Director of Front End Engineering at Culture Amp.
