.Net Framework

Beginning with version 4.5.2 and later, .NET Framework is defined as a component of the Windows operating system . (1)

Check

regedit

Look for Version value in the version specific subkeys under HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\NET Framework Setup\NDP

Or HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Wow6432Node\Microsoft\NET Framework Setup\NDP for 32-bit apps under 64-bit Windows.

SQL Server Compatibility

MSSQL-Matrix

Patching

I believe it is safe to apply any patch to any version of .Net Framework and SQL Server will continue to work.

 

You do need to be careful about removing older versions... For SQL2005, 2008, or 2008R2 you must have .net Framework 2.0, 3.0 or 3.5 installed.


For 2012 and above it's easier... You just need any version of .net Framework at version 4.0 or later

NetFramework

Install 3.5

Required by:  SQL Server 2008 on Windows Server 2012/2012R2

Server Manager

Add roles and features


PowerShell

Run PowerShell as Administrator (select Yes in the User Account Control box)...

Import-Module ServerManager

Add-WindowsFeature as-net-framework

Bibliography