Which are the new features added in .NET framework 4.0?

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A list of new features of .NET Framework 4.0:

  • Improved Application Compatibility and Deployment Support
  • Dynamic Language Runtime
  • Managed Extensibility Framework
  • Parallel Programming framework
  • Improved Security Model
  • Networking Improvements
  • Improved Core ASP.NET Services
  • Improvements in WPF 4
  • Improved Entity Framework (EF)
  • Integration between WCF and WF

In .NET Framework 4.0, several new features were introduced to enhance developer productivity, improve performance, and enable easier development of modern applications. Some of the key features include:

  1. Dynamic Language Runtime (DLR): .NET Framework 4.0 introduced the DLR, which provides support for dynamic languages such as IronPython and IronRuby, enabling interoperability with statically typed languages like C# and VB.NET.
  2. Parallel Extensions: This feature provides a simplified API for parallel programming, including parallel loops, tasks, and parallel LINQ (PLINQ), allowing developers to easily leverage multicore processors to improve application performance.
  3. Entity Framework (EF) 4.0: The Entity Framework received significant updates in version 4.0, including improvements in performance, support for model-first development, better integration with LINQ, and enhanced customization options.
  4. Code Contracts: .NET Framework 4.0 introduced the Code Contracts feature, which allows developers to express coding assumptions in the form of preconditions, postconditions, and object invariants. These contracts can be checked statically at compile time and dynamically at runtime to improve code correctness and reliability.
  5. Comprehensive Support for Windows Communication Foundation (WCF): .NET Framework 4.0 includes enhancements to WCF, such as simplified configuration, improved REST support, better interoperability with other platforms, and increased performance.
  6. Improved Visual Basic and C# Language Features: .NET Framework 4.0 introduced several language enhancements, including named and optional arguments, co-variance and contra-variance for generics, and support for dynamic types, making it easier for developers to write concise and expressive code.
  7. Managed Extensibility Framework (MEF): MEF is a framework for building extensible applications. In .NET Framework 4.0, MEF became a part of the .NET Framework itself, providing developers with a standardized way to build modular and extensible applications.
  8. Task Parallel Library (TPL): TPL is a set of APIs for task-based parallelism in .NET. It simplifies the process of creating and managing asynchronous operations, allowing developers to write scalable and responsive applications more easily.

These are just some of the key features introduced in .NET Framework 4.0. Depending on the depth of the interview and the specific job role, candidates may be expected to provide more detailed explanations or examples of how these features are used in practice.