Introduction to Visual Basic 2015
In this lesson, you will learn what Visual Basic 2015 is, why it belongs to the VB.NET family, and how it helps you create Windows applications using Visual Studio 2015.
VB2015 is older than VB2026, but it still teaches the core VB.NET concepts that make later versions easier to learn.
Lesson Overview
1.1 Introduction
What is Visual Basic 2015?
Visual Basic 2015 is one of the modern VB.NET versions released by Microsoft. It is used to create Windows applications in the Visual Studio environment.
Unlike classic VB6, VB2015 is part of the .NET ecosystem. That means it supports a more modern programming model, stronger object-oriented features, and closer integration with the Microsoft development stack.
- VB2015 belongs to the VB.NET family
- It is commonly used with Visual Studio 2015
- It supports event-driven programming for Windows Forms
- It is a good bridge to newer VB.NET versions like VB2026
1.2 Comparison
VB6 vs VB2015
- VB6 is classic Visual Basic for older Windows development.
- VB2015 is part of the VB.NET family and uses the .NET framework model.
- VB2015 is better aligned with modern VB.NET learning and upgrade paths.
1.3 IDE
Understanding the Visual Studio 2015 IDE
The Integrated Development Environment, or IDE, is where you create forms, drag controls, edit properties, write code, and run your application.
- Toolbox contains controls like buttons, labels, and text boxes
- Form Designer lets you create the visual interface
- Properties Window changes names, sizes, colors, and captions
- Solution Explorer manages your project files
- Code Window is where you write the program logic
1.4 Why This Still Matters
VB2015 as a Foundation for VB2026
Many skills you learn in VB2015 still transfer directly to later VB.NET versions: form design, controls, events, variables, conditions, loops, and structured coding.
- Event-driven programming still matters
- GUI thinking still matters
- Program structure still matters
- Upgrading becomes easier after mastering the basics
Recommended Book
Strengthen Your Learning
Visual Basic Programming
Use this Top Release book to reinforce your tutorial learning with a more structured guide.
Best Next Move
After understanding the VB2015 basics, continue to your newest VB2026 .NET Tutorial for the strongest forward path.
Exercises
Practice Questions
- Explain why VB2015 is considered part of the VB.NET family.
- Name five important parts of the Visual Studio 2015 IDE.
- Why is VB2015 still useful even if newer VB.NET versions are available?