How to Check if .NET Framework 3.5 Is Installed

.NET Framework 3.5 is required for many legacy applications on Windows Server 2012 R2. This guide shows several quick and reliable ways to check whether .NET Framework 3.5 is already installed on your server.

Method 1: Using Server Manager (GUI)

Description:
This method checks installed Windows features through the Server Manager interface.

Steps:

1. Open Server Manager

2. Click Manage → Add Roles and Features

3. Click Next until you reach the Features screen

4. Look for .NET Framework 3.5 Features

Result:

• If it is checked, .NET Framework 3.5 is already installed

• If it is unchecked, .NET Framework 3.5 is not installed

Method 2: Using PowerShell (Recommended)

Description:
This is the fastest and most reliable method for system administrators.

Steps:

1. Open PowerShell as Administrator

2. Run the following command:

Result:

• Installed : True → .NET Framework 3.5 is installed

• Installed : False → .NET Framework 3.5 is not installed

Method 3: Using Control Panel

Description:
This method checks optional Windows features through Control Panel.

Steps:

1. Open Control Panel

2. Go to Programs → Programs and Features

3. Click Turn Windows features on or off

4. Check .NET Framework 3.5 (includes .NET 2.0 and 3.0)

Result:

• Checked → Installed

• Not checked → Not installed

Method 4: Using Registry (Advanced)

Description:
This method verifies installation status directly from the Windows Registry.

Steps:

1. Open PowerShell

2. Run:

Result:

• Install : 1 → .NET Framework 3.5 is installed

• Install : 0 or key not found →

Important Notes

• Windows Server 2012 R2 does NOT install .NET Framework 3.5 by default

• Installation may require:

  • Windows Server 2012 R2 ISO media

  • Or access to Windows Update

• .NET Framework 3.5 is required for:

  • Legacy ASP.NET applications

  • Applications built on .NET 2.0 / 3.0 / 3.5

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