date tools note that Microsoft have made available some free developer
tools.
They have made them free to increase their presence in the home, hobbyist
and student market.
The products are:
Visual Web Developer 2005 Express Edition
Visual Basic 2005 Express Edition
Visual C# (C sharp) 2005 Express Edition
Visual C++ 2005 Express Edition
Visual J# 2005 Express Edition
SQL Server 2005 Express Edition (database)
You can find more about them, and download, them here:
They are rather large so you will require a broadband connection. Some of
these products are being given away free on PC and Computer magazines.
Note that all the above products are included in the product Visual Studio
2005 which Microsoft have just made available.
Please also note that I have not as yet downloaded or installed ANY of
these products so please do not come to me for help.
Microsoft are usually very good a providing help and advice on their web
site so if you need help I suggest you start there,