FAQ: When is it necessary to install .NET for Windows?

Audience

Administrator

Some Autodesk products require Microsoft DirectX, which, in turn, requires the Microsoft .NET Framework. Autodesk product installers automatically install the appropriate version of .NET.

However, Windows 8/8.1 restricts the installation of .NET 3.5 and earlier versions from local media. If you are installing from media, you need Internet access during deployment so that Windows updates can install or enable the .NET Framework. If the .NET installation fails, you see the following message: "An Internet connection is required to install a Windows component. Please connect and re-launch the installer." The message means one of the following:

• An Internet connection is not available during installation.
• The computer is configured to use Windows Server Update Services (WSUS) instead of Windows Update.
• The Windows 8/8.1 update for Microsoft Security Advisory is not installed.

If you can't resolve the problem, manually enable .NET 3.5 on each Windows 8/8.1 computer before running the Autodesk installer:

1. Right-click Start screen > All Apps > Control Panel > Programs > Turn Windows Features On Or Off.
2. In the feature list, select Microsoft .NET Framework 3.5.