.Net Framework installation statistics

See list below

Source

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"When the .NET Framework is installed as a part of the OS, it does not appear in the Programs and Features (or Add/Remove Programs) control panel. The following is a complete list of which version of the .NET Framework is included in which version of the OS:" That being said it can be turned on or off in the "Turn Windows features on or off" section of Programs and Features.

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"In addition, the .NET Framework shipped with the following versions of Windows but not as truly integrated OS components"

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Back then there were still huge amounts of windows machines without .net framework installed.

Windows XP Windows Vista does not come with .NET Framework preinstalled. Windows 8+ does come with a version preinstalled.

Maybe there is a way to view installation statistics?

You will have to collect this information yourself, or base your estimations, on the usage of each edition of Windows.

Did Microsoft begin to pre-install it?

Yes

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Source