Do you want to run apps? The runtime includes everything you need to run existing apps/programs built with .NET Framework. Not necessarily to be confused with «Microsoft .NET Runtime».
Normally the runtime is installed by default with all x64 versions of Windows 11, and with x64 and x86 versions of Windows 10 22H2, which as of January 14, 2026 causes complications with the Winget verification process. Due to that, this package can by default only be installed on ARM64 devices, and users of x64/x86 versions of Windows 10 ≤21H2 cannot use this package even if they are still on Framework 4.8.0.
Publisher’s description
What is Microsoft .NET Framework Runtime 4.8.1?
Microsoft .NET Framework Runtime 4.8.1 by Microsoft Corporation is free Windows software in the languages & sdks category.
Installation and requirements
The publisher provides EXE installers for 64-bit, ARM64, 32-bit and Any CPU Windows. The main installer is 77.7 MB. Installation asks for administrator rights. A silent install is possible with the installer’s documented switches.
Pros / Cons
Pros
- Free to use
- Native ARM64 build for Windows on Arm
- Documented silent install
Cons
- Installation needs administrator rights
In short: Microsoft .NET Framework Runtime 4.8.1 is a free languages & sdk tool for 64-bit, ARM64, 32-bit and Any CPU PCs. Administrators can deploy it unattended.
Is Microsoft .NET Framework Runtime 4.8.1 safe to download?
- The file is served by download.microsoft.com, the publisher’s own domain
- The download link uses HTTPS
- A SHA256 hash is published, so you can verify the file:
C0CA2E0C9CD18A24A0A77369A13FAE2C2C4E8BC83355DD24E5DDC00F9D791FE3· Open the VirusTotal report for this hash - The link answered when we last checked it (October 22, 2026)
- ExeAtlas does not host, wrap or modify installers
Related guide: How to check a file’s SHA256 hash on Windows
Recent versions
All 1 versions ›| Version | Date | Size | Files |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4.8.1Latest | January 15, 2026 | 77.7 MB | ARM64 EXEAny CPU EXE32-bit EXE64-bit EXE |
Install from the command line
Silent install ›winget install --id Microsoft.DotNet.Framework.Runtime -eNDP481-x86-x64-AllOS-ENU.exe /passive /AcceptEULA /norestartRelated guide: How to use winget: install and update apps
Information
- Publisher
- Microsoft Corporation
- Category
- Languages & SDKs
- Licence
- Proprietary (Freeware)
- Price
- Free
- Requires
- Windows 11 / 10
- Architecture
- 64-bit, ARM64, 32-bit, Any CPU
- Installer
- EXE
- Version
- 4.8.1
- Released
- January 15, 2026
- Added to the catalogue
- January 15, 2026
- Versions listed
- 1
- Website
- dotnet.microsoft.com
- winget ID
- Microsoft.DotNet.Framework.Runtime
Ratings and reviews
No reviews yet. Be the first to rate it.
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Frequently asked questions
Is Microsoft .NET Framework Runtime 4.8.1 free?
Yes. Microsoft .NET Framework Runtime 4.8.1 is free to use.
Is Microsoft .NET Framework Runtime 4.8.1 safe to download?
The download comes from download.microsoft.com, which belongs to the publisher; ExeAtlas does not host or change the file. Compare its SHA256 hash with the one shown here, or open the VirusTotal report for that hash.
How do I install Microsoft .NET Framework Runtime 4.8.1 with winget?
Open PowerShell or Windows Terminal and run the winget command shown on this page. winget downloads the official installer and checks its SHA256 hash before running it.
Can Microsoft .NET Framework Runtime 4.8.1 be installed silently?
Yes. The silent install page lists the exact command for each installer.
Does Microsoft .NET Framework Runtime 4.8.1 run on ARM (Windows on Arm)?
Yes, there is a native ARM64 installer.
What are alternatives to Microsoft .NET Framework Runtime 4.8.1?
Go Programming Language, LLVM, Deno, CMake and Yarn. The alternatives page compares them.
