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Framework Class Libraries

The .NET Framework class library is a collection of reusable types that tightly integrate with the common language runtime. The class library is object-oriented, providing types from which your own managed code can derive functionality. Base classes provide standard functionality such as input/output, string manipulation, security management, network communication, thread management, text management, user interface design features, and other functions. The Microsoft ADO.NET data classes support persistent data management and include SQL classes for manipulating persistent data stores through a standard SQL interface. XML classes enable XML data manipulation and XML searching and translations. The Microsoft ASP.NET classes support the development of Web-based applications and XML Web services. The Windows Forms classes support the development of Windows-based smart client applications. Together, the class libraries provide a common, consistent development interface across all languages supported by the .NET Framework.