[Westwales] Must I use .NET?

[Robert Savage]

Does anyone know if there is an alternative to Microshi... oops   
Microsoft's .NET framework.

The control software for a piece of equipment I am considering buying 
requires the .NET framework to be installed.  As I try to avoid any of 
Microsoft's scams to set their own standards I would rather use a non 
M/S alternative.  (Does the .NET framework encourage lazy programming 
and bloatware)?


Bob Savage