I received an email about "how one would get Visual Studio 2008 for "Evaluation Purposes," so I wanted to post an entry that explained that Microsoft has a version that you can download for free that does not expire like an Evaluation Copy. This Freely downloadable version of Visual Studio 2008 (and SQL Server 2005) is intended for Hobbyist Developers and those who want to experiment with Visual Studio (2008 in this case).
The good news, is that even if you don't have a MSDN Subscription, you can download and work with Visual Studio 2008 using the Express Editions. Now, it doesn't have all of the Features of Visual Studio Professional Edition or one of the Team Suite Editions, and it is not intended for Professional Development in an Enterprise environment, but you will be surprised that you can do a lot with the Express Editions.
In my opinion, many developers who want to work with Visual Studio at home and can't afford the Enterprise versions, the Express Editions are for YOU! Again, it is not as "feature rich" as Visual Studio Professional, but it is a nice alternative for those who are looking for a Zero-cost Development Environment.
To download (VB.NET, C#, Web Developer, Visual C++, or SQL Server 2005 Express Edition): Click here
IF you have your heart set on a 90 day Evaluation of one of the higher-end versions of Visual Studio, here are the links:
90-Day Trial Downloads
~ Robert Shelton
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