Microsoft .NET Frequently Asked Questions

What is .NET?
Microsoft® .NET Framework Version 1.1 provides access to Web services required by DialogLink 5. It is sometimes referred to as DOT.NET or DOTNET. A comprehensive definition of .NET is available at msdn.microsoft.com/netframework/technologyinfo/default.aspx. More information is available from Microsoft at www.microsoft.com/net/business/it_pros.asp.

Must I install .NET to use DialogLink 5?
Yes. Downloading and installing .NET version 1.1 is a prerequisite to running DialogLink 5. If you do not have .NET installed on your computer, you will not be able to run DialogLink 5.

NOTE: If you have a .NET version other than 1.1, you must also install 1.1 to use DialogLink 5.

How do I install .NET on my computer?
You may already have a version of .NET installed on your system. To check, go to Start>Settings>Control Panel and select Add/Remove Programs. If .NET is installed, it is listed as Microsoft .NET Framework 1.1 in the currently installed programs list.

If .NET is not installed on your computer, you can download it from Microsoft. If you do not have download capability or you do not have administrator access, you may need to contact your IT help desk.

What is a Web service?
A Web service enables an application, such as DialogLink 5, to connect to a service, such as Dialog, over a TCP/IP network connection. It is a point-to-point connection that does not require the use of browsers or Web pages. For DialogLink 5, it provides customers with the familiar session-oriented interface that captures all session activities, while also providing enhanced HTML formatting and linking capabilities for:

Dialog eLinks
Web pages referenced in search results
Content linking, including Investext fulltext PDF reports.

Is .NET a security risk?
No. .NET is one of Microsoft's recommended downloads for Windows 98, NT, 2000 and XP. Applications in the Recommended Download category are one level below those in the Critical Updates category, which includes the latest Windows and Internet Explorer service packs and other important updates. .NET presents no more of a security risk than running Microsoft Word, Microsoft Excel or Internet Explorer.

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