It is a versatile and powerful development platform that allows developers to build various applications, including desktop, web, and mobile applications. It enables you to run existing Windows desktop applications. This includes the .NET Runtime; you need not install it separately.
Fast and cross-platform
.NET performs faster than any other popular framework, according to TechEmpower. You can write, run, and build on multiple platforms, including Windows, Linux, and macOS.
Development tools and IDE support
Developers using .NET Runtime for macOS can benefit from a rich set of tools and integrated development environment (IDE) support. Microsoft provides Visual Studio for macOS, a powerful IDE with a suite of features tailored explicitly for .NET development. This IDE offers advanced debugging capabilities, code navigation, code refactoring, and other productivity-enhancing tools.
Extensive class library
.NET Runtime has an extensive class library that provides a wide range of pre-built functionality and APIs. Developers can use this library to accelerate development and reduce the time required to build desktop applications. The class library supports various tasks such as file operations, networking, data access, etc.
Performance and scalability
The runtime is optimized for performance and scalability, ensuring that applications built using .NET Desktop Runtime deliver excellent performance on macOS. It leverages the powerful capabilities of macOS systems to provide smooth and responsive user experiences.
Language Support: The runtime supports multiple programming languages, including C#, F#, and Visual Basic.
MacOS (intel/Apple Silicon)
Included runtimes: .NET Runtime, ASP.NET Core Runtime, .NET Desktop Runtime
Q: Is Microsoft .NET for macOS free?
A: Microsoft .NET for macOS is free and can be downloaded from the official Microsoft website.
Q: Can I build commercial applications using .NET?
A: Absolutely! .NET allows you to develop open-source and commercial applications without restrictions.
Q: Is the development experience similar to developing for Windows using .NET?
A: Yes, the development experience for macOS using .NET is similar to Windows development. You can use the same programming languages, development tools, and many of the same APIs.