I'm trying to automate the installation of a software package called 'AutoID Navigator,' which requires .NET 2.0, part of .NET 3.5. I managed to script installations for other related software but hit a snag with the silent install of .NET 3.5. My command line seems right: `cmd.exe /c ".dotnetfx35setup.exe" /q /norestart`, but it keeps showing confirmation prompts, ignoring the 'quiet' switch.
I've also experimented with using DISM to enable the feature but encountered errors when trying to specify the source path for the '.CAB' file. The command I used was: `DISM /Online /Enable-Feature /FeatureName:NetFx3 /All /LimitAccess /Source:D:sourcessxs`.
On the bright side, I found that running `Add-WindowsCapability -Online -Name "NetFx3~~~~"` works without prompts, although it's somewhat slow. I'm surprised the quiet installation method isn't more widely documented. If anyone has tips on getting the quiet flag to cooperate, I'd love to hear them! Also worth mentioning, I have a related issue with silently installing 'AutoID Network Navigator' using a setup.exe. The publisher recommended `setup.exe /silentISSelectedApplicationLanguage="1033"`, but I haven't tried it yet.
3 Answers
You’re right about .NET 3.5 being a feature in newer OS versions. It’s strange to see confusion around that. You can indeed install it in Windows 11 using the commands you've mentioned, and it will work! Also, for your airgapped environment, the DISM method should work, but it can be slow.
Yeah, I've faced similar issues with older software. I usually automate it through an installation package, which helps, but with each update, I need to grab the latest version from the sourcessxs folder on a new ISO.
As for your command, have you tried using a PowerShell script? Here’s a simple one: `Enable-WindowsOptionalFeature -Online -FeatureName NetFx3 -Source $currentLocation -LimitAccess -All`. It might help streamline the process without prompts!
I still have a few rugged laptops to prep. If I can get that method to work, it should speed things up! I'm setting them up manually, so anything that makes life easier is a win.
I had to install .NET 3.5 in an airgapped Windows 11 environment recently. It was a bit tricky, but I mounted the Windows image and used: `DISM /Online /Enable-Feature /FeatureName:NetFx3 /All /LimitAccess /Source:D:sourcessxs`. The speed was alright, and it installed successfully after some time. Just make sure you have the right image to work from!
That's helpful info! The installation speed does depend on several factors, but at least it's good to know that it works with the right setup.

It’s not just about the deprecated keys; it’s about needing the correct access. DISM and PowerShell are your best bets for this.