When it comes to building applications with .NET, developers often choose between .NET Core and .NET Framework. Both have their strengths, but they serve different purposes.
What is .NET Core?
.NET Core is a cross-platform, open-source framework designed for modern app development. It’s fast, lightweight, and works across Windows, Linux, and macOS. Ideal for web apps, cloud services, microservices, and apps that need high performance.
What is .NET Framework?
.NET Framework is built for Windows-only applications. It supports technologies like WCF, Web Forms, and Windows desktop apps. Best suited for maintaining or upgrading existing enterprise systems that rely on these tools.
Venturing into the .NET landscape? Trust our developers to guide you through!
Feature | .NET Core | .NET Framework |
Platform | Cross-platform | Windows-only |
Performance | High | Moderate |
Microservices | Supported | Not ideal |
WCF/Web Forms | Not supported | Fully supported |
Deployment | Flexible | Windows-based |
Open Source | Yes | Partially |
When to Choose What
Use .NET Core if you need:
- Cross-platform support (Windows, Linux, macOS)
- Cloud-native or microservice architecture
- High performance and scalability
- Modern development tools and lightweight deployment
- Integration with Docker, Kubernetes, and CI/CD pipelines
Use .NET Framework if:
- You’re maintaining or upgrading existing Windows applications
- Your project relies on WCF, Web Forms, or Windows Workflow Foundation
- You need full support for Windows desktop development (Windows Forms, WPF)
- Your infrastructure is tightly integrated with the Windows ecosystem
- You’re using third-party libraries or tools that are only compatible with .NET Framework
Final Thoughts
The choice between .NET Core and .NET Framework depends on your project’s needs. For modern, cross-platform, high-performance applications, .NET Core is the better fit. For stable, Windows-only environments or legacy systems, the .NET Framework still delivers value.
Assess your goals, and choose the platform that aligns best with your application’s future.
Partner with BrainerHub Solutions for all your .NET Development Services. Get in touch with our team today for .NET Core and .NET Framework requirements!
