vb6 makes Platform targeted EXE's (Machine Code)
VB.Net makes Platform independent EXE's (Intermediate Language or IL Code) which require a JIT compiler (.NET Framework) to run, similar to Java and the Java Virtual Machine...
Pros:
* 1 compile, multi platform (theoretically)
* all .Net lanuages can access the features .Net provides
* some enhancements made to the core language to allow things that were previously not available in VB...
* New IDE (once you are used to it) allows for faster development (especially in 2005 ;-))
* Microsoft provides Free Training Videos ;-)
Cons:
* Changes to syntax may be frustrating for some to adapt to (especially those lacking experience in C++ or Java style languages)
* Requires the .Net framework, users must install the framework for your program to execute.
* Not all projects convert to .Net easily with the wizard (some require complete rewrites)
*Note: VB.Net
IS NOT the next version of Visual Basic... It is the Next Generation of the Basic Language wrapped up in a Visual IDE, the Way VB was/is...
However, the Visual Basic series Ends with 6.0 there won't be a 7.0, which isn't so bad, VB6 works for what it is made for...
My advice, whether you plan to use it or not, I suggest you download the beta, while you can, and take a little time to learn it, and the differences from VB6, so It will be easier to migrate to if you choose to at a later date...
Hope This helps ;-)
Good Luck
Have Fun, Be Young... Code BASIC
-Josh
PROGRAMMER:
Red-eyed, mumbling mammal capable of conversing with inanimate objects.