It includes the base .NET Runtime , meaning users do not need to install the core runtime separately to run console-based components .
: Unlike the older Windows-only .NET Framework, .NET 8.0 is part of the modern, open-source, and cross-platform lineage of .NET. microsoft .net desktop runtime %28x64%29 8.0x
Version numbers matter. As of this writing, .NET 8 is a release. This is a critical distinction from versions like .NET 7 or .NET 9 (which are Standard Term Support). It includes the base
Because .NET is "modular," Windows no longer comes pre-installed with every version. This keeps the operating system lean, but it means users must occasionally download specific runtimes to support newer third-party software. Installation and Maintenance How to Install It includes the base .NET Runtime