If you need modern package management, install NuGet for VS2010 (version 2.8.60318.667). Later NuGet versions no longer support VS2010.
For IT administrators deploying to multiple machines, use the command line: visual studio 2010 sp1 iso
setup.exe /unattendfile "C:\path\to\AdminDeployment.xml"
Create an AdminDeployment.xml file using the /createadminfile switch: If you need modern package management, install NuGet
setup.exe /createadminfile /product vs /edition ultimate
Then modify the XML to select features, license acceptance, and restart behavior. Create an AdminDeployment
Microsoft originally provided direct ISO links. After they were removed, the community and the Internet Archive preserved them. Legally, Microsoft has not pursued hobbyists downloading Express editions, as they were always free. Proceed with caution:
Warning: Do not download ISOs from random torrent sites or file lockers. They often contain malware, keyloggers, or corrupted installers. Microsoft has officially retired VS2010 from its main download centers, but the ISOs are still available via Visual Studio Subscriptions (formerly MSDN) and the Visual Studio Older Downloads page.
Before diving into the ISO details, it’s important to understand why developers still seek this specific version.