First .NET Framework 2.0 RC Available

The second version of the .NET Framework took a step closer to completion Friday, as Microsoft made available the first release candidate. The .NET Framework 2.0 serves at the underpinnings for next-generation Windows applications and will be integrated into Windows Vista, due late next year.

According to Microsoft, the RC "improves scalability and performance of applications with improved caching, application deployment and updating with ClickOnce, support for the broadest array of browsers and devices with ASP.NET 2.0 controls and services."