As part of your upgrade to Windows 8, you’ll need to ensure that a component called '.NET Framework 3.5' is installed so that your Vodafone mobile broadband modem will continue to work properly.
Does this affect me?
There are several cases where you won't be affected by this issue:
- If you're not a Vodafone mobile broadband customer you won't be affected
- If you have upgraded from Windows 7 and chose the 'Keep Windows settings, personal files and apps' during installation, your computer will already have .NET Framework 3.5 - This point is recommended for all customers upgrading from Windows 7
Note: If you chose a different option or upgraded from Windows Vista/XP please continue reading.
- If you’re using a Vodafone Pocket WiFi modem you’ll still be able to connect to the internet via Wi-Fi. It's only when you connect your modem via USB that you may encounter software issues
I have a Vodafone modem, will I be affected?
Some Vodafone mobile broadband modems require .NET Framework 3.5 software, which isn’t included in the standard installation of Windows 8. Depending on your Vodafone modem, you'll need to install .NET Framework 3.5 so your modem will install and operate correctly.
If you’re using the:
- Vodafone Classic Modem (K3773)
- Vodafone Pocket WiFi (E585)
- Vodafone Pocket WiFi2 (E585U)
You shouldn’t have any problems as these particular models don't require the .NET Framework 3.5 component.
If you’re using the:
- Vodafone Pocket WiFi Pro (R205)
You should find you’re still able to access the internet via Wi-Fi, but may encounter software issues when connecting via USB. We strongly advise that you make preparations to install .NET Framework 3.5 on your computer prior to upgrading to Windows 8.
If you’re using:
- A Vodafone modem model that isn’t listed above, you’re likely to have software problems if .NET Framework 3.5 is not already installed
Check your system for .NET Framework 3.5
Copy and paste the line of text below into the address bar of Microsoft Internet Explorer, then press ‘Enter’ on your keyboard.
- javascript:alert(navigator.userAgent)
You'll get a notification, as below, detailing the versions of .NET Framework installed on your computer. If you don't see '.NET CLR 3.5' then .NET Framework 3.5 is not installed on your computer and you install it now.
Note: This will only work in
Microsoft Internet Explorer (Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox and other browsers cannot be used.)
Make sure you’re prepared
After upgrading to Windows 8, you may find you’re not able to access the internet. This will make it more difficult to get .NET Framework 3.5.
If you have access to one of the following, it'll contain the files you’ll require.
- Genuine Windows 8 (32 or 64-bit) installation or Upgrade disc
- Genuine Windows 7 (32 or 64-bit) installation disc, or a
- Genuine Windows Vista SP1 (32 or 64-bit) installation disc
Note:
- Only genuine, full version, Microsoft Windows installation disc can be used
- 'Recovery' discs will not work
- The disc does not need to be the same one that was used to install Windows on your computer
If you’re not able to get access to one of the above discs, when or before you upgrade to Windows 8, ensure you’ll have access to the internet though an alternate connection. This may include:
- Tethering through a smartphone (note: data usage charges apply)
- If your computer is portable, using a friend’s/family or public internet/Wi-Fi connection
Keep a copy of the instructions
In the event that something doesn’t go according to plan, it would be very handy to have a copy of this, and the below pages, in case you’re not able to view them on the internet.
You can either print a copy of these pages or keep a copy on your computer by following these instructions:
- Highlight the entire page by pressing the ‘Ctrl’ key followed by the letter ‘A’ on your keyboard
- Then copy the highlighted area by pressing the ‘Ctrl’ key followed by the letter ‘C’
- Next, open a writing program – such as Word or Notepad, for example – and in a new document, press the ‘Ctrl’ key followed by the letter ‘V’
- Finally, save your document by pressing the ‘Ctrl’ key followed by the letter ‘S’
You should now have a copy of this page on your computer so you’ll be able to read it without internet access. We strongly recommend you save or print a copy of the following two pages as well: