Introduction
Choosing the right .NET version is one of the most important decisions when starting a new project. Developers often ask:
Which .NET version should I use in 2026?
Should I use .NET LTS or STS?
Is .NET Framework still relevant?
In this article, we’ll answer these questions and help you decide which .NET version you should use right now, based on Microsoft’s support policy and real-world development scenarios.
Understanding .NET Versions: LTS vs STS
Microsoft releases a new version of .NET every year, following a predictable lifecycle.
What Is LTS (Long-Term Support)?
What Is STS (Standard-Term Support)?
Supported for 18 months
Includes the latest runtime and language features
Best for learning, experimentation, and short-term projects
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Latest .NET Versions You Can Use Today
.NET 8 (LTS) — Recommended for Most Applications
.NET 8 is the latest Long-Term Support version and the best choice for most developers.
Use .NET 8 if you are:
Building a new production application
Developing ASP.NET Core Web APIs
Creating enterprise-level software
Working on cloud-native or microservices-based systems
Key Benefits of .NET 8:
Long-term Microsoft support
Performance improvements
Better container and cloud optimization
Stable ecosystem and tooling
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.NET 9 (STS) — For Learning and Early Adoption
.NET 9 is a Standard-Term Support release focused on innovation.
Use .NET 9 if you:
Want to explore new C# and runtime features
Are building proof-of-concept (POC) applications
Plan to upgrade frequently
Not recommended for long-term production systems due to its shorter support window.
.NET Framework — Only for Legacy Maintenance
.NET Framework is still used in older applications, but it is not suitable for new development.
Use only if:
❌ No cross-platform support ❌ No major feature updates
Which .NET Version Should You Choose? (Quick Guide)
| Project Type | Recommended .NET Version |
|---|
| New production app | .NET 8 (LTS) |
| Enterprise application | .NET 8 (LTS) |
| Learning C# and .NET | .NET 8 or .NET 9 |
| Prototype / POC | .NET 9 |
| Legacy app maintenance | .NET Framework |
Final Recommendation
If you are starting a new project today, the answer is simple:
Use .NET 8 (LTS).
It provides the best balance of performance, stability, and long-term support, making it ideal for real-world applications.
Conclusion
Choosing the correct .NET version can save you significant time and effort in the future. While STS releases are exciting, LTS versions remain the safest choice for production environments.
Stay updated, but build smart.