Silverlight and Microsoft.NET updates

I am an unsophisticated user - please be kind! I regularly apply most of the Windows updates that arrive on Tuesdays. However, I cannot tell what the updates for Silverlight and Microsoft.NET are for. It appears, from googling those terms, that they might be for programming tools, which I don't use. [At least to my knowledge!!]

Is it OK or recommended to ignore these Windows updates? I don't do programming!

Thanks.

Hello, I get and install the net framework ones, but, like you, the Silverlight ones I do not use nor do I install . If it were me , I would just hide those and install just the net framework ones.

Thanks, I'll probably do the same. I saw another post that the .NET might be necessary for viewing videos. So I guess I need those.

Welcome
It is the opinion of many, including myself, to install all updates. They are sent for a reason and take up very little room. I know all of mine are installed except for one that creates problems with my monitor.
Good luck

Thanks, Richard. I get "Windows Secrets" blog and they often recommend AGAINST installing every windows update, as some of them cause more problems...like your monitor issue.

Mostly, I'm looking for info about *what* Silverlight and the MS.NET programs are actually for. If they are for programmers, I don't need these updates. If they are for something integral to the operation of my computer, I probably DO need them.

I haven't seen that answer, yet..

As I said for me I think its best to install every one, the space they take is nominal. If you have concerns, why not make a system restore point first and then if not happy, use that restore point to go back.

To fix the .NET Framework update issue=====

First repair the .NET framework and then restart your computer, if you still get the update error, go ahead and hide the update as the update is already updated while repair.

To repair the .NET Framework- click Start > Control Panel > Programs and Features, select Microsoft .NET Framework 4 Client Profile, and click Uninstall/Change>Repair.

To hide updates- Just open up Windows Update Windows>Check for updates>Click on View available updates> right click on the selected updates > Hide > OK.

Thats all, try it out.