Preface

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Microsoft .NET is an advance in programming technology that greatly simplifies application development both for traditional, proprietary applications, and for the emerging paradigm of Web-based services. .NET is a complete restructuring of Microsoft's whole system infrastructure and represents a major learning challenge for programmers developing applications on Microsoft platforms. The new platform includes a new programming language C# and a major class library, the .NET Framework.

This book covers important topics in the .NET Framework for experienced programmers. You do not need prior experience in C#, because there is a self-contained treatment, but you should have experience in some object-oriented language such as C++ or Java. The book could also be read by a seasoned Visual Basic programmer who has experience working with objects and components in VB.

If you already understand C#, you may safely skip or skim Chapters 3 and 4. Chapter 5 contains important information about the interactions of C# and the .NET Framework. You may then proceed with a detailed study of the .NET Framework in Chapters 6 and beyond. For a thorough introduction to the C# language you may read the book Introduction to C# Using .NET .

The book is practical, with many examples and a major case study. The goal is to equip you to begin building significant applications using the .NET Framework. The book is part of The Integrated .NET Series from Object Innovations and Prentice Hall PTR.

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