Open Tools > Extensions and Updates and check for any remaining patches or updates.
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Check this box for standard web and desktop development. Open Tools > Extensions and Updates and check
Navigate to the official page (formerly MSDN) or the Visual Studio Older Downloads portal.
Sign in using a standard Microsoft Account (such as Outlook, Hotmail, or Live). If you do not have one, you can create an account for free. Step 2: Search the Legacy Archives Navigate to the official page (formerly MSDN) or
| Version | Release Year | Support Status | Best For | |---------|--------------|----------------|-----------| | | 2022 | Active (until 2027+) | Most new projects, 64-bit IDE, modern C++, .NET 8/9. | | Visual Studio 2019 Community | 2019 | Extended support until 2029 | Older .NET Core 3.1, .NET 5, legacy projects not ready for VS2022. | | Visual Studio 2017 Community | 2017 | Extended support ended 2022 | Only if you need very specific old toolchains. |
1 GB of RAM (2 GB or more recommended; 4 GB minimum for virtual machines). Step 2: Search the Legacy Archives | Version
Visual Studio Older Downloads - 2019, 2017, 2015 - Microsoft 1 Apr 2026 —
If you must use VS2015 for legacy project compatibility, follow these steps carefully. Microsoft no longer prominently links to this version.
The most recent update for Visual Studio 2015 is Update 3 (also known as version 14.0.25431.01). This includes critical security fixes, performance improvements, and better compatibility with Windows 10 and Windows 11. Do not download a bare VS2015 RTM version — always aim for VS2015 Community with Update 3 .
Includes robust debugging, profiling, and testing tools. Prerequisites Before Downloading