.NET 3.0 Exams
With .NET 2.0 exams being released in May 2006, we’re still a ways away from any announcement of releases for .NET 3.0 exams. In fact, .NET 3.0 RTM won’t be released until November 30, 2006 to coincide with the release of Vista. Retail release is scheduled for January 30, 2006.
Does this mean you should not worry about .NET 3.0? It’s likely the current 2.0 exams will be around for a long time. .NET 3.0 does not replace .NET 2.0, as 2.0 did with 1.1. .NET 3.0 is an extension of 2.0. .NET 2.0 is the core of 3.0. Therefore, I see the MCTS and MCPD tracks as prerequisites to showing a complete understanding of .NET 3.0. The sooner you begin using 3.0, the better you will be when any 3.0 exams are released.
Who is writing software for .NET 3.0 anyway? Production wise, probably very few. I imagine there are some shops with pre RTM 3.0 projects underway but probably in a specialized manner. Meaning, those that have more control over their clients’ environment. But again, learning 3.0 early on puts you into a league of an extreme few. You’ll be in demand as businesses start seeking out 3.0 solutions.
Do I need to install Vista to use .NET 3.0? No. You can develop on XP now. The benefit of Vista is the new operating system features. If you plan to target the Vista platform, than yes - Vista is necessary. Vista gives you all of the 3D animation, glass, and other OS specific features.
Start developing for .NET 3.0
Pre RTM (Release To Manufacturers) 3.0 Framework
Visual Studio 2005 Extensions for .NET 3.0
Windows Vista Development Center
Additional Resources on .NET 3.0
Assessing the Business Need Behind .NET Framework 3.0
When is .NET not .NET?
10/25/2006
NetFXGuide Intro Video to .Net Framework 3.0 (Very nice)
A 4 minute high-level introduction to Net 3.0, for those who don’t know yet what is all about.
11/6/2006
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