Instructions for Downloading and Installing Visual C++ 2008 Express Edition

You will need a PC running Windows 2000 Service Pack 4 or XP Service Pack 2, Windows Server 2003 with Service Pack 1, Windows 64 or Windows Vista. As this is a big download, ensure that you are up-to-date with your Windows Updates first.

You will also be required to register with Microsoft at the end of the process. If you have a Hotmail or Windows Live account already then use that. If not then you will need to sign up (it is free) for one.

You'll need a reasonably fast Internet connection to the PC where you are going to install Visual C++ 2008 Express Edition. Dial-up will take too long for a download that's nearly 80MB without MDSN or over 300 MB with it.

Starting the Download

Go to the Visual Express Download Page and click on the Visual C++ Express logo. That will download vcsetup.exe. It's under 3 MB. Save it somewhere then run it. Keep this file if you want to reinstall.

It will give you the option of submitting anonymously to help Microsoft improve the experience. I have no problems with this but it's your choice.

On the next page : Instructions for the download and install.