What is Visual Basic.Net?

Visual Basic.Net (VB.Net) is the current form of the wildly popular Visual Basic-series programming languages which ended at Version 6 (i.e., VB6). The ".Net" designation brings the language into the compiled framework of other more advanced languages such as C++ and C#. While VB.Net retains much of the syntax from VB6, it should be considered a new language as there are many differences between the two.

However, like its predessor, VB.Net provides one of the easiest Integrated Development Environments (IDE) for rapid creation of programs. VB.Net provides a wealth of graphical tools with significant support by third party developers for add-on tools. Using an event-based IDE framework, VB.Net allows quick development of programs that respond to user actions (e.g., pressing a button). Codes are essentially attached to actions, and therefore, the IDE represents a non-linear environment where a program does not need to follow a top-to-bottom flow.

VB.Net is also a fully object-oriented programming (OOP) language providing all the benefits of such a language with the benefits of a highly graphical interface. Just like the traditional OOP langages of C/C++, VB.Net allows OOP concepts like inheritance and polymorphism.

While there are several different paid versions, it is amazing that Microsoft has made available a free version called, VB.Net Express, as part of their Visual Studio.Net Express line of products. Although free, it has virtually all the capabilities of the paid versions. Seemingly, the only noticeable missing feature is a customizable packaging/deployment option. If that's not a major concern, you will love this freebie.

To get you started, below are some useful books that can teach programming in Visual Basic.Net followed by some links to a great set tutorial lessons.