What is Silverlight & How to Use it with Win 7

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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers around Microsoft Silverlight, its purpose, and usage in the context of the Windows 7 operating system. Participants explore its function as a runtime environment for web applications and the implications for end users versus developers.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Technical explanation, Conceptual clarification

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants describe Silverlight as Microsoft's attempt at a technology similar to Flash.
  • Others seek clarification on what Flash is, indicating a potential lack of familiarity with the technology.
  • One participant suggests that Silverlight is primarily a runtime environment that allows users to run applications developed with it, similar to the Java Runtime Environment.
  • There is a mention that using Silverlight for development would likely require an integrated development environment like Visual Studio and some training.
  • Concerns are raised about the necessity of keeping Silverlight updated, with some participants indicating it is not a major concern.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree on the basic function of Silverlight as a runtime environment, but there is uncertainty regarding the need for training to use it effectively, particularly for development purposes. The discussion does not reach a consensus on the necessity of training or the importance of keeping Silverlight updated.

Contextual Notes

Some participants express uncertainty about their ability to use Silverlight or Flash without additional training, indicating a potential gap in understanding the technologies.

Who May Find This Useful

Individuals interested in understanding the role of Silverlight in Windows 7, as well as those curious about web technologies and their development environments.

mathman
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I recently got windows 7 operating system. Included is a package called silverlight. What is it for and how does one use it?
 
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Greg Bernhardt said:
Microsoft's attempt at Flash.
What is Flash?
 
Based on the references, I doubt if I could use either without a training program.
 
mathman said:
Based on the references, I doubt if I could use either without a training program.

Most likely the package you are asked to install is a plugin to be able to run programs rather than develop.
 
the preinstalled Silverlight is simply the run-time environment. It allows you to use websites developed with silverlight. You don't actually do anything with it really as an end user. Just like the Java RTE, its just in the back and will do its thing when you need it.

If you want to develop websites using silverlight, then you will probably end up in an integrated development environment like Visual Studio which will require training.
 
I guess I understand the point. So it appears my only concern is to keep Silverlight up-to-date.
 
mathman said:
I guess I understand the point. So it appears my only concern is to keep Silverlight up-to-date.

There are very few and they are all via Windows Update function. It's not something to loose sleep over, just install it and move on :)
 
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Greg Bernhardt said:
There are very few and they are all via Windows Update function. It's not something to loose sleep over, just install it and move on :)

I never lost any asleep over it. I was just curious as to why it's there.
 

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