C# GUI programming for beginners: Where to start? [closed]

Question

I'm a C++/Java developer and have no idea about .Net or GUIs. I need to develop a windows app for 2000/XP/Vista/7.

I think I've come to conclusion that C# is the best and the fastest way to go (please correct me if I'm wrong). What do you recommend? Which GUI approach should I learn? (Forms? Any other stuff?)

Is it the best way to compile in .Net 2.0 mode? It's going to be an application for the public to download.

Answer 1

For desktop applications there are basically two options; WinForms and Windows Presentation Foundation (WPF).

WinForms is more traditionally built and hence easier to learn. WinForms might therefore be a simpler start, but if you plan on actually using your gained knowledge in GUI development for .NET I'd say you're better of diving into WPF from the start. It's a much richer framework, and where Microsoft is putting their effort for desktop applications. It is also similar to Silverlight, meaning you can easily get into Silverlight too when you know WPF.

• This other question gives some useful resources when getting started with WPF.
• Also check out this tutorial at MSDN.
• WpfTutorial obviously has a few nice hints for you too!

Good luck!