What is the difference between .NET Framework 4.6.1 Targeting Pack and .NET Framework 4.6.1 Runtime?

Question

I want to develop .net framework 4.6.1 applications using Visual studio 2012.So, I tried to install 4.6.1 developer pack for visual studio 2012.But when I go to this link to install the framework.It provides me two links, one for .NET Framework 4.6.1 Targeting Pack and the other for .NET Framework 4.6.1 Runtime. Which one of these shall I install?

Solution

To use the framework with Visual Studio 2012 or later install the developer type version.

The runtime type version is a lighter version, meant to run applications on servers. This runtime version doesn't have the information/extensions that Visual Studio needs, so Visual Studio can't use them.

Check why at was-the-developer-pack-originally-called-sdk

Update(2018-01-08)

Currently, the download page is .NET SDKs for Visual Studio. First column has the Developer Pack versions, for Visual Studios, the middle column as the Runtime versions to install on production servers.

Comments

[jpmc26]

I'm afraid I felt it necessary to downvote because you don't actually explain what the targeting pack is.

[MiguelSlv]

Was not my intention to explain what it is but to responde to the question. Anyway, your comment make me notice that the answer could have a bit more information.

[jpmc26]

Not quite sure how you can avoid explaining the difference without explaining what it is, but up to you.

[NikhilGoud]

What's the difference between SDK and Targeting pack, I saw both options when trying to install .net framework 4.6.2 on VS 17

[MiguelSlv]

Where did you see it? the current page for download (just added on my update) doesn't mention any Targeting pack

[CodeFox]

Probably in the Visual Studio 2017 installer - there are currently some SDKs and targeting packs listed.

[shawn1874]

The gist of the question was, which one do I install? That wasn't answered either so this thread is not particularly useful.