.NET vs. C#: Are .NET and C# the Same Thing?

Posted on 08/17/2022 by Niko Venev

Among the limitless tools available for professional developers are two of the most trusted and popular: C# and .NET. C#, pronounced "C sharp," and .NET are consistently relied upon to develop and execute applications, software, and services that power our technological world. Their relationship, however, can often confuse novices regarding their exact purposes and uses.

       

Live Microsoft .NET Instructor-led Courses

Course Title Length Price (USD)
.NET Core Foundations (Visual Studio) 2 days $1,235
.NET Framework Using C# (Visual Studio) 4 days $2,425
ASP.NET Core MVC (Visual Studio) 2 days $1,235
ASP.NET Using C# (Visual Studio) 5 days $3,010
ASP.NET Web API Essentials Using C# (Visual Studio) 2 days $1,235
C# Programming in Visual Studio 5 days $3,010
Windows Presentation Foundation (WPF) Using C# (Visual Studio) 4 days Teams Only
       

Self-Paced Microsoft .NET eLearning

Course Title Length Price (USD)
ASP.NET eLearning Bundle 6 courses $375
ASP.NET CORE 6 Microservices eLearning Bundle 12 courses $375
C# Programming eLearning Bundle 16 courses $600
Microsoft .NET eLearning Bundle 10 courses $600

Are .NET and C# the Same?

In short, .NET and C# are not the same thing. C# is an object-oriented programming language, and .NET is a framework in which it can be deployed to develop both basic and advanced applications. Microsoft created C# to work with their .NET framework. When professional developers speak about .NET, they may also be referring to a common language runtime, which can also run code written in other languages, such as Visual Basic and F#. Though each of these tools can seem similar through association and even terminology, they can have specific purposes.

When individuals talk about the differences in .NET vs. C#, there are often discussions about why C# is considered the superior programming language to use while working with .NET. Versus C#, other languages simply fall short. This is because C# is a native programming language that was specifically developed to work with the .NET platform. Using C# with the .NET framework comes with a host of advantages, not least of which is the convenient, automatic availability of classes that makes the development process easier.

Generally, C# is considered to be a highly versatile programming language, and this flexibility is a main reason why many developers choose to use it. Since C# is open source and has a robust fan base with community support, users can expect regular updates to the language. Improvements to C# often streamline programming and increase developers' productivity. Coupled with its reputation for being a relatively easy language to learn, the benefits of using C# can seem limitless.

 

C# and .NET Similarities

While many individuals new to programming languages and frameworks may be interested in listening to conversations debating .NET versus C# to try to differentiate them from each other, it can be worth learning about their similarities. Although they're totally different in features and functions, they can have some common attributes, like being:

  • Open source
  • Initially developed by Microsoft
  • Cross-platform
  • Streamlined in functionality
  • Relatively easy to learn

Understanding these basic similarities can go a long way in determining if using C# is best to use for your professional projects and job duties. While no programming language and framework will likely be a completely perfect fit for all of your tasks, the ubiquity, maturity, and flexibility of C# and .NET make them go-to solutions for most projects.

When debating taking .NET vs. C# courses, students should know that C#:

  • Can make working with .NET easier
  • Opens the door to using thousands of classes
  • Provides convenient cleanup features with .NET
  • Facilitates automatic features that can save time
  • Offers native Windows integration

 

Sign up for .NET and C# Courses

While the answer to, "Are .NET and C# the same thing?" can be straightforward, the nuances of terminology and use of these tools can often puzzle novices. One way to fully understand the differences between C# and .NET is to sign up for classes that are taught by a knowledgeable, live instructor with experience using both. At Certstaffix Training, we offer a number of on-site and online classes that teach students the fundamentals of how to work with this framework and programming language. Our hands-on C# and .NET classes are available to students nationwide, meaning that anyone can learn about these tools from any location. Enroll today to get the skills you need quickly and easily!

 







Related C# Posts:

Public instructor-led C# course prices start at $2,425 per student. Group training discounts are available.

Self-Paced C# eLearning courses cost $600 at the starting point per student. Group purchase discounts are available.







 

Start your training today!