Anyone who still uses the old program, be careful. 🚨
Microsoft is preparing to restructure Windows, most recently beginning testing the removal of .NET Framework 3.5 from the Optional Windows Features list in new versions of Windows, marking a significant step towards reducing the burden of older software near the end of its support life.
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Windows 11 currently has .NET Framework 4.8 enabled by default, but users who still rely on some older programs need to enable .NET Framework 3.5 via the Windows Features menu. Many people, especially IT lines, should have encountered this situation because some software still relies on .Net to run.
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Most recently, Microsoft has announced that in the next version of Windows, the .NET Framework 3.5 will no longer be enabled through Optional Features. This change started with Windows 11 Insider Preview build 27965 that was released for testing in October 2025 and will take effect on future new versions of Windows, while Windows 10 and previous versions of Windows 11 25H2 will still not be affected.
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Removing .NET Framework 3.5 also results in software and related features such as ASP .NET 3.5, .NET Extensibility 3.5, as well as both HTTP and non-HTTP WCF systems, which cannot be installed through Optional Features. If required, users must download and install separately. Microsoft has already provided documentation and installation guidelines.
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According to Microsoft, this change is consistent with the product lifecycle, as .NET Framework 3.5 will officially end support on January 9, 2029. At the same time, it also recommends that casual users and organizations upgrade to a new version of .NET that is also supported to enhance security and long-term compatibility.
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Source: Neowin