List of the Top 9 Programming Languages for .NET in 2025

The Java™ Programming Language is crafted to be a flexible, concurrent, and strongly typed language that is oriented around objects and follows a class-based framework. It is usually converted into bytecode that complies with the guidelines established in the Java Virtual Machine Specification. Developers typically write their source code in plain text documents, which are designated with a .java extension. These source files are then compiled into .class files using the javac compiler. Unlike code meant for native processors, a .class file contains bytecodes that represent the machine language recognized by the Java Virtual Machine (Java VM). To run an application, the java launcher tool initiates an instance of the Java Virtual Machine, enabling the smooth execution of the compiled bytecode. This entire workflow illustrates the remarkable efficiency and portability that Java provides across a wide range of computing platforms, showcasing its adaptability in diverse programming environments. As a result, developers can rely on Java to create applications that function consistently regardless of the underlying system architecture.

Visual Basic, which is an object-oriented programming language developed by Microsoft, facilitates the quick and easy creation of type-safe applications within the .NET framework. This version specifically focuses on improving the Visual Basic Runtime (microsoft.visualbasic.dll) for .NET Core, making it the first version designed exclusively for that environment. Upcoming revisions are expected to integrate aspects of the Visual Basic Runtime that depend on WinForms technology. The .NET framework itself serves as a dynamic and open-source development platform suitable for building various application types. Regardless of the specific application being developed, the code and project files retain a uniform structure and functionality. This consistency allows developers to utilize the same runtime, application programming interfaces (APIs), and language features throughout all of their projects. A Visual Basic application comprises standard components, with a solution hosting one or more projects; each project may include multiple assemblies, which are compiled from several source files. This organized approach not only helps streamline the development process but also empowers developers to efficiently handle the complexities of their applications. In essence, the framework’s cohesive design fosters a productive environment for developers to innovate and bring their ideas to fruition.

The most recent version of the Pascal programming language combines the classic simplicity of traditional Pascal with a host of modern enhancements and the extensive capabilities of the Microsoft .NET Framework. Accompanying this version is a free, intuitive, and powerful integrated development environment (IDE) that features a built-in form designer, allowing for the rapid development of Windows desktop applications. Users can conveniently download the latest release of PascalABC.NET, which includes this useful form designer. This iteration brings several new features to the Pascal language, including the foreach operator, in-block variable declarations, automatic type inference, simplified unit syntax, and the ability to implement methods within classes and records, along with a new operator for object construction, anonymous classes, auto-classes, and BigInteger support. It also introduces modern programming concepts such as n-dimensional dynamic arrays, generics, interfaces, operator overloading, exception handling, garbage collection, and lambda expressions. The IDE is designed with an integrated debugger, an IntelliSense system for efficient code completion, coding templates for quick development, and automatic formatting options to improve productivity. Furthermore, this all-encompassing environment supports an uninterrupted coding journey, making it perfectly suited for both beginners and seasoned developers alike in their programming endeavors. The combined features not only enhance usability but also promote a more efficient workflow for all users.

Small Basic is a distinctive programming language crafted to help students transition from block-based coding to text-based programming. By presenting the foundational elements of syntax-driven languages in an accessible manner, Small Basic provides learners with the skills and confidence needed to advance to more complex languages such as Java and C#. Furthermore, it enables users to develop applications across diverse platforms, including Kinect, Lego Mindstorm, Raspberry Pi, Arduino, and Oculus Rift. The language offers a welcoming atmosphere and an easy-to-use syntax, complemented by a rich selection of libraries, allowing individuals to bring their programs and games to life with minimal code. You can swiftly start creating your own games and share them with friends, who can easily import and launch your published projects on their devices. Additionally, the Silverlight player offers a way to display your games on personal blogs and websites, enabling them to be played directly in browsers for a broader audience to enjoy. This feature not only promotes creativity but also fosters collaboration among aspiring programmers, encouraging them to learn from one another and collectively enhance their skills. Ultimately, Small Basic serves as an excellent stepping stone for those looking to explore the vast world of programming.

In Visual Studio 2022, the default target framework for .NET Core projects is set to version 6.0, whereas for .NET Framework projects, it typically defaults to version 4.7.2. You can easily locate the selector for the .NET Framework version on the project configuration page during the new project creation process. It is important to note that C++/CLI is not included by default when you install the C++ workload in Visual Studio. If you want to add this feature after installation, you can access the Visual Studio Installer from the Windows Start menu and search for the relevant option. After launching the installer, click the modify button next to your installed version of Visual Studio, navigate to the Individual components tab, and scroll down to the section for compilers, build tools, and runtimes to enable C++/CLI support for the latest v143 build tools. Once you have made your selections, simply click modify to download the required components and update your Visual Studio environment. By leveraging C++/CLI, it becomes possible to create C++ applications that utilize both .NET classes and native C++ types, providing a powerful tool for developing console applications. This capability enhances the interoperability of managed and unmanaged code, significantly improving the overall functionality and versatility of your projects. Consequently, developers can take full advantage of the extensive features provided by both C++ and .NET frameworks.

JavaScript functions as both a scripting and programming language that is widely utilized on the internet, enabling developers to build interactive and dynamic features for websites. An impressive 97% of all websites around the world rely on client-side JavaScript, highlighting its crucial role in web development. As one of the leading scripting languages available today, JavaScript has become indispensable for creating captivating online user experiences. Strings in JavaScript can be represented using either single quotes '' or double quotes "", and it is essential to be consistent with the chosen style throughout your code. For instance, if you initiate a string with a single quote, you must also terminate it with a single quote. Each type of quotation mark comes with its own set of benefits and drawbacks; for example, using single quotes can make it easier to incorporate HTML within your JavaScript code, as it removes the need to escape double quotes. This is particularly important when you need to include quotation marks within a string, which often necessitates using opposite styles for clarity and correctness. Furthermore, mastering the management of strings in JavaScript is crucial for developers aiming to elevate their programming abilities and create more sophisticated applications. In conclusion, a solid grasp of string handling will not only improve your coding efficiency but also enhance the overall quality of your web projects.

C++ is celebrated for its clear and concise syntax. Although beginners may initially perceive C++ as more complex than other programming languages due to its extensive use of symbols such as {}[]*&!|..., mastering these symbols can actually bring about a greater level of clarity and organization, surpassing languages that rely heavily on lengthy English phrases. Furthermore, C++ has improved its input/output system in comparison to C, and the integration of the standard template library makes data management and interaction more efficient, ensuring it remains as approachable as other languages without losing any essential functionality. This programming language adopts an object-oriented paradigm, treating software elements as individual objects with unique attributes and behaviors, which enhances or even replaces the conventional structured programming model that focused primarily on routines and parameters. By prioritizing objects, C++ provides developers with increased flexibility and scalability in their projects. Thus, the advantages of C++ position it as a robust choice for modern software development.

Prolog is a logic-based programming language that is intricately connected to artificial intelligence and computational linguistics. Emerging from the realm of first-order logic, a particular kind of formal logic, Prolog sets itself apart from many other programming languages by being chiefly declarative, allowing users to express logic through relations defined by specific facts and rules. To initiate any computation, users must formulate queries against these defined relations. As one of the early pioneers in logic programming, Prolog remains widely used today, with numerous free and commercial versions available. This adaptable language has been utilized across various domains, including theorem proving, expert systems, term rewriting, type systems, automated planning, and its original focus on natural language processing. Furthermore, modern Prolog environments enhance its usability by providing tools for creating graphical user interfaces while also accommodating a range of administrative functions and networked applications, showcasing its versatility in the landscape of contemporary programming. The ongoing evolution of Prolog ensures that it remains relevant and valuable in addressing complex computational challenges.

C is a programming language that emerged in 1972 and remains highly relevant and widely used in the software development industry today. Serving as a versatile and general-purpose imperative language, C is employed to build a variety of software applications, including operating systems, application software, compilers, and databases. Its lasting significance positions it as a cornerstone in programming, impacting numerous contemporary languages and technological advancements. Moreover, the efficiency and performance that C offers further solidify its importance across different areas of software engineering, ensuring its place in future innovations as well. The language's robust features and widespread adaptability continue to attract both new and experienced developers alike.