If you are re-installing Windows XP SP2 frequently (for retro gaming rigs or factory floor PCs), you can slipstream .NET 3.5 SP1 directly into your XP installation CD.
Before downloading, ensure you need the correct file. Here is the breakdown for Windows XP SP2:
Conclusion: If you are searching for "3.1," download .NET Framework 3.5 SP1 Full Offline Installer. If you are re-installing Windows XP SP2 frequently
On Windows XP, this offline installer works without an internet connection, but you may need to extract it first:
dotnetfx35.exe /x(to extract to a folder), then runsetup.exe.
Fix: Run the .NET Framework Cleanup Tool (from Aaron Stebner). Remove all versions 3.x and 2.x, reboot, then install 3.5 fresh. Conclusion: If you are searching for "3
While the direct XP link is dead, the following filename is the authentic, digitally signed offline installer:
Filename: dotnetfx35.exe (Full offline; ~231 MB)
SHA1 Signature: This file is signed by Microsoft in 2007. On Windows XP, this offline installer works without
Warning: The 2.8 MB
dotnetfx35setup.exeis the web installer. You do not want that. The full offline file is approximately 230–250 MB.