The Microsoft Visual Studio 2010 Tools for Office Runtime (x64) is a legacy but vital component for running .NET-based customizations on 64-bit versions of Office. It enables businesses to continue using older, mission-critical Office solutions on modern systems. While not intended for new greenfield development, it remains an indispensable piece of infrastructure for countless enterprise environments.
The Microsoft Visual Studio 2010 Tools for Office (VSTO) Runtime -x64- is a bridge that allows Microsoft Office to run advanced extensions and automated solutions developed in .NET. The "Interesting Piece": A Long-Lived Essential
The most striking thing about this specific runtime is its longevity and necessity. Even though "2010" is in the name, it is still required for modern versions of Office (2013, 2016, and newer) to run add-ins built with Visual Studio 2013 or later. It is the foundation for almost every complex Excel or Word automation you use today that isn't a simple macro. Key Technical Insights
The x64 Distinction: The x64 version specifically allows 64-bit editions of Office to host the .NET Framework Common Language Runtime (CLR). If you have a 64-bit Windows but use a 32-bit Office, you actually need the x86 runtime instead.
Self-Healing Installation: It has a "smart" loader. If you install it and a required .NET Framework extension is missing, the runtime will automatically wait and install it later when the requirements are finally met.
Deep Access: Unlike newer JavaScript-based web add-ins, solutions using this runtime have complete access to the Office object model and the local machine's file system, making it the "power user's" choice for deep integration.
Automatic Deployment: You likely already have it. It is usually installed automatically alongside Microsoft Office or Visual Studio. Recent Maintenance
Microsoft continues to release updates for it, including a major rollup in July 2024 to ensure compatibility with Windows 11 and address issues like incorrect character handling in add-in names.
Are you trying to troubleshoot an installation error or develop a new add-in?
Essential Guide: Visual Studio 2010 Tools for Office Runtime (x64)
If you've ever tried to run a professional Excel add-in or a custom Word automation tool and been met with a "missing runtime" error, you’ve likely encountered the
Microsoft Visual Studio 2010 Tools for Office (VSTO) Runtime
Despite the "2010" in its name, this remains a critical component for running Office-based solutions built with Visual Studio 2013 and newer versions. For users on 64-bit systems, the x64 version
is the specific engine required to bridge the gap between .NET customizations and the 64-bit edition of Microsoft Office. What Does the VSTO Runtime Actually Do?
Think of the VSTO Runtime as a translator. It allows Microsoft Office applications (like Excel, Word, or Outlook) to host the .NET Framework, enabling them to run advanced code written in languages like C# or VB.NET. The runtime consists of two core parts: Office Solution Loader:
A set of unmanaged DLLs that Office uses to find and load your specific solution. Office Extensions for .NET:
Managed assemblies that act as the communication layer, allowing your code to talk to Office’s complex object model. Why You Specifically Need the x64 Version
The architecture of the runtime must match the architecture of your Office installation , not necessarily your Windows OS. If you are running the 64-bit edition of Office , you must have the x64 VSTO Runtime installed.
It provides the necessary 64-bit environment to perform heavy-duty tasks like managing large datasets in Excel or complex enterprise-level integrations. Key Benefits for Users and Developers Seamless Integration:
It allows developers to extend the Ribbon, create custom task panes, and automate repetitive tasks across the Office suite. Enhanced Security:
The runtime performs security checks to verify that a solution has the proper permissions to run before it's allowed to execute. Language Support:
It automatically matches your Windows language settings, ensuring error messages and UI elements are readable. Quick Tips for Installation & Troubleshooting
While the VSTO Runtime is often bundled with Office, you may occasionally need a manual install or repair. You can find the standalone installer directly at the Microsoft Download Center Repairing: If an add-in stops working, go to Programs and Features , select the runtime, and click . The wizard will usually offer a option to fix corrupted files. Silent Install:
For IT admins deploying to multiple machines, you can use the command vstor_redist.exe /q /norestart for a quiet installation. creating your own Office Add-in using this runtime, or are you looking for specific troubleshooting steps for a current error? Visual Studio 2010 Tools for Office Runtime - VA.gov
The Microsoft Visual Studio 2010 Tools for Office Runtime (VSTOR) is a required framework that allows computers to run Microsoft Office-based solutions created with Visual Studio. The x64 version is specifically designed for 64-bit operating systems to support the integration and execution of custom Office add-ins and document-level customizations. Overview of VSTO Runtime
The runtime acts as a bridge between the .NET Framework and Microsoft Office applications like Word, Excel, and Outlook. It is essential for end-users who need to run modern Office extensions developed in Visual Studio 2010, 2012, 2013, or 2015. Key Components
The runtime consists of three primary elements that manage how Office solutions are loaded and executed:
Office Solution Loader: A set of DLLs that find and load the solution assembly and its associated manifest.
Office Extensions for .NET Framework 3.5: Assemblies used by solutions targeting the .NET Framework 3.5.
Office Extensions for .NET Framework 4 or later: Assemblies used by newer solutions targeting .NET 4.0 and beyond. Technical Specifications and Requirements
To successfully install and use the VSTOR x64, systems must meet the following criteria from Microsoft Support and Microsoft Learn:
Visual Studio Tools for Office runtime overview - Microsoft Learn
Microsoft Visual Studio 2010 Tools for Office (VSTO) Runtime
is a critical software component required to run Microsoft Office-based solutions built using Visual Studio 2010 and later
version specifically enables these customizations to function within 64-bit editions of Microsoft Office applications like Word, Excel, and Outlook Microsoft Learn What is the VSTO Runtime?
The runtime acts as a bridge between the .NET Framework and Microsoft Office . It consists of two primary parts: Office Extensions for .NET:
Managed assemblies that allow your solution to communicate with Office applications Microsoft Learn Office Solution Loader:
A set of unmanaged DLLs that Office uses to load the runtime and the specific solution Microsoft Learn Why You Need the x64 Version
The bitness of the VSTO Runtime must match the bitness of your Microsoft Office installation , not necessarily your Windows operating system Microsoft Learn 64-bit Office: Requires the VSTO Runtime Microsoft Learn 32-bit Office: Requires the VSTO Runtime Microsoft Learn Deployment: For automated deployment, the vstor_redist.exe
installer can be extracted to obtain the MSI version for easier push-outs Salesforce Key Features & Benefits Seamless Integration:
Enables custom add-ins and document-level customizations to automate Office tasks Language Support:
Automatically configures itself to match the language of your Windows installation, with additional Language Packs
Performs security checks to ensure solution assemblies have the necessary permissions to run Microsoft Learn Productivity:
Allows developers to build sophisticated tools, such as custom ribbons, task panes, and data-bound charts, directly within Office VA.gov Home | Veterans Affairs System Requirements & Prerequisites
Before installing the VSTO Runtime, ensure your system meets these official Microsoft requirements Operating System:
Supports Windows 7 SP1 up to Windows 11, and Windows Server 2012 to 2019 .NET Framework: Requires .NET Framework 3.5, 4, 4.5, or later Office Version: microsoft visual studio 2010 tools for office runtime -x64-
Required for running solutions in Office 2013, 2016, 2019, 2021, and Office 365 Installation & Troubleshooting
You can download the latest redistributable package from the Microsoft Download Center Common Fixes:
The Microsoft Visual Studio 2010 Tools for Office (VSTO) Runtime - x64 is a essential software component required to run Microsoft Office-based solutions (like Excel or Word add-ins) built using Visual Studio 2010 and newer versions. 1. Purpose and Architecture
The VSTO Runtime acts as a bridge between the Office application and the custom solution code.
Office Extensions for .NET Framework: Managed assemblies that provide the communication layer between the solution and the Office application.
Office Solution Loader: A set of unmanaged DLLs (VSTOEE.dll and VSTOLoader.dll) that load the runtime and the solution assembly, performing security checks and creating application domains.
Bitness Requirement: The x64 version of the runtime is specifically required when running solutions in the 64-bit edition of Microsoft Office on a 64-bit Windows operating system. 2. System Requirements
To use this runtime, the target machine must meet these prerequisites:
Operating Systems: Compatible with Windows 7 SP1, 8.1, 10, 11, and various Windows Server editions (2012–2019). Software Prerequisites:
.NET Framework 3.5, 4, 4.5, or later must be installed prior to the runtime.
A supported version of Microsoft Office (2013, 2016, 2019, 2021, or Office 365). 3. Installation and Deployment
Automatic Installation: The runtime is often installed automatically when you install Office. For instance, installing 64-bit Office on 64-bit Windows typically installs the x64 runtime.
Manual Install: You can download the redistributable (vstor_redist.exe) from the Official Microsoft Download Center.
Command Line: For automated deployment, use the command vstor_redist.exe /q /norestart for a quiet installation.
Package Managers: It can also be installed via winget using winget install -e --id Microsoft.VSTOR. 4. Key Fixes in Recent Updates
Recent versions of the runtime (e.g., build 31119.00 or higher) address specific bugs:
WPF Delay: Resolves a 15–20 second delay when closing Office apps that use Windows Presentation Foundation (WPF) add-ins on touch devices.
Security Prompts: Fixes an issue where SHA 256 code-signing certificates incorrectly triggered "Unknown Publisher" warnings.
Data Integrity: Fixes a bug where changes to a ListObject were discarded after deleting the last row.
If you're putting this together for a deployment plan or technical documentation, would you like: The exact registry keys for detection? A comparison of when you need x86 vs x64 specifically? Troubleshooting steps for installation errors?
Install the Visual Studio Tools for Office Runtime Redistributable
Understanding the Visual Studio 2010 Tools for Office Runtime (x64)
The Microsoft Visual Studio 2010 Tools for Office (VSTO) Runtime is a critical engine that allows Microsoft Office applications (like Excel, Word, and Outlook) to run custom add-ins and solutions built with .NET. While "2010" is in the name, this runtime is essential for running Office-based solutions created in Visual Studio 2010, 2012, 2013, and 2015. What is the x64 Version?
The x64 (64-bit) version of the runtime is specifically required when you are running a 64-bit edition of Microsoft Office.
Architecture Matching: The runtime version must match your Office installation, not necessarily your Windows OS. If you have 64-bit Office on 64-bit Windows, you need the x64 runtime.
Compatibility: It provides the managed assemblies and solution loaders that bridge the gap between your custom .NET code and the Office host application. Core Components The VSTO Runtime consists of two primary parts:
Office Extensions for .NET Framework: Managed assemblies that provide the communication layer for your solution.
Office Solution Loader: A set of unmanaged DLLs (like VSTOEE.dll and VSTOLoader.dll) that Office uses to load the runtime and your specific add-ins. Key System Requirements & Prerequisites
To use the VSTO 2010 Runtime (x64), your system generally needs to meet these criteria:
Operating Systems: Supports Windows 7 through Windows 11, and Windows Server 2012 through 2019.
.NET Framework: You must have .NET Framework 3.5, 4, 4 Client Profile, or 4.5+ installed before the runtime.
Office Version: Required for running customizations in Office 2010, 2013, 2016, and newer supported versions. How to Install the Runtime
There are three common ways the VSTO Runtime gets onto a machine:
With Visual Studio: Automatically installed if you choose Office development workloads.
With Microsoft Office: Many Office versions include the runtime by default.
Standalone Redistributable: You can download the latest version directly from the Microsoft Download Center.
Pro Tip: For IT admins, the redistributable (vstor_redist.exe) can be installed silently using the /q /norestart switches. Common Troubleshooting
Missing Runtime Error: If a custom Excel tool or Outlook add-in fails to load, the most common culprit is a missing or outdated VSTO runtime.
Certificate Issues: Some older versions of the runtime may have expired digital certificates, causing Windows Defender to block installation. Always ensure you are using the latest supported version.
Architecture Mismatch: If your add-in still won't load on a 64-bit machine, double-check if you accidentally installed the x86 runtime for a 64-bit Office installation.
Are you experiencing a specific error message when trying to load an Office add-in?
The Microsoft Visual Studio 2010 Tools for Office (VSTO) Runtime is a essential component required to run Microsoft Office-based solutions built using Visual Studio 2010 through 2022. The -x64- version specifically allows these customizations to work within 64-bit editions of Microsoft Office. Key Technical Details
Purpose: It provides a communication layer between Office applications (like Word or Excel) and the .NET Framework, allowing managed code to automate and extend Office functionality. Core Components:
Office Solution Loader: A set of unmanaged DLLs that load the runtime and the specific solution.
Office Extensions for .NET: Managed assemblies that enable communication between the solution and Office. The Microsoft Visual Studio 2010 Tools for Office
Prerequisites: Before installation, you must have the .NET Framework 3.5, 4.0, or newer installed on the machine.
Automatic Installation: Typically, if you install a 64-bit version of Office on a 64-bit Windows OS, this runtime is installed automatically alongside it. Official Resources For documentation and downloads, you can refer to:
Official Download: The Visual Studio 2010 Tools for Office Runtime page provides the vstor_redist.exe installer.
Technical Documentation: Microsoft's VSTO Runtime Overview explains architecture, 32-bit vs. 64-bit differences, and installation scenarios.
Installation Guide: Detailed steps for deploying the redistributable can be found at Microsoft Learn.
Are you looking to troubleshoot an error with the runtime, or are you deploying a new add-in for users? Visual Studio 2010 Tools for Office Runtime - Microsoft
Microsoft Visual Studio 2010 Tools for Office Runtime - x64 - Report
Overview
The Microsoft Visual Studio 2010 Tools for Office Runtime - x64 is a software component that enables the use of Visual Studio 2010 tools for developing Office solutions on 64-bit systems. This report provides an overview of the software, its features, and its functionality.
Introduction
The Microsoft Visual Studio 2010 Tools for Office Runtime - x64 is a part of the Microsoft Visual Studio 2010 suite, which is a comprehensive development environment for creating Windows applications. The Tools for Office Runtime is a separate installation that provides the necessary components for developing Office solutions, such as add-ins and customizations, using Visual Studio 2010.
Key Features
The Microsoft Visual Studio 2010 Tools for Office Runtime - x64 includes the following key features:
Functionality
The Microsoft Visual Studio 2010 Tools for Office Runtime - x64 provides the following functionality:
System Requirements
The Microsoft Visual Studio 2010 Tools for Office Runtime - x64 requires the following system specifications:
Installation and Deployment
The Microsoft Visual Studio 2010 Tools for Office Runtime - x64 can be installed and deployed in a variety of ways, including:
Conclusion
The Microsoft Visual Studio 2010 Tools for Office Runtime - x64 is a necessary component for developing Office solutions using Visual Studio 2010 on 64-bit systems. The runtime provides a comprehensive set of features and functionality for creating custom Office solutions, including add-ins and customizations. By understanding the features, functionality, and system requirements of the runtime, developers can create robust and secure Office solutions that meet the needs of their organizations.
The Ghost in the Office Machine: Why We Still Talk About VSTO 2010
If you’ve ever peeked into your "Apps & Features" list and wondered why a component from 2010 is still haunting your modern PC, you aren't alone. Microsoft Visual Studio 2010 Tools for Office Runtime (x64)
—or VSTO for short—is the unsung hero (or lingering ghost) that allows your Excel spreadsheets and Word documents to do things they weren't originally designed to do. What Is It, Exactly? Think of VSTO as the
between the .NET Framework and your Office applications. While Office has its own language (VBA), VSTO allows developers to use professional coding languages like C# or VB.NET to build powerful add-ins and document-level customizations.
part is crucial: it’s the specific version required to talk to the 64-bit edition of Microsoft Office. If you have 64-bit Office, you need the 64-bit runtime—simple as that. Why "2010" in 2026?
It’s a bit of a naming quirk that causes endless confusion. Despite the "2010" label, this runtime is actually required to run Office solutions built with Visual Studio 2013 and all newer versions The Stalwart Support
: Microsoft hasn't replaced it because it still works for existing .NET Framework solutions. The Modern Shift
: While Microsoft now encourages developers to use JavaScript-based "Office Web Add-ins" for cross-platform support, the VSTO 2010 Runtime remains the bedrock for heavy-duty desktop extensions. Should You Keep It?
If you're wondering whether to hit "Uninstall," here’s the rule of thumb:
Introduction
Microsoft Visual Studio 2010 Tools for Office Runtime is a software component that enables developers to create custom solutions for Microsoft Office applications using Visual Studio 2010. The runtime is a required component for running Office solutions created with Visual Studio 2010. In this paper, we will discuss the features, architecture, and deployment of Microsoft Visual Studio 2010 Tools for Office Runtime -x64-.
Features of Microsoft Visual Studio 2010 Tools for Office Runtime
The Microsoft Visual Studio 2010 Tools for Office Runtime provides the following features:
Architecture of Microsoft Visual Studio 2010 Tools for Office Runtime
The Microsoft Visual Studio 2010 Tools for Office Runtime consists of the following components:
Deployment of Microsoft Visual Studio 2010 Tools for Office Runtime -x64-
The Microsoft Visual Studio 2010 Tools for Office Runtime -x64- can be deployed in the following ways:
System Requirements
The following system requirements must be met to install and run the Microsoft Visual Studio 2010 Tools for Office Runtime -x64-:
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Microsoft Visual Studio 2010 Tools for Office Runtime -x64- is a required component for running Office solutions created with Visual Studio 2010. The runtime provides a set of features and tools for creating custom solutions for Office applications. Understanding the architecture, deployment, and system requirements of the runtime is essential for developers and administrators who need to deploy and manage Office solutions.
References
Let me know if you want me to add anything.
Also, I want to mention that this document was created based on information available up to my knowledge cutoff date. For more up-to-date information, I recommend checking the official Microsoft documentation. Functionality The Microsoft Visual Studio 2010 Tools for
Microsoft Visual Studio 2010 Tools for Office (VSTO) Runtime -x64-
is a critical system component required to run Microsoft Office-based solutions (such as add-ins or document-level customizations) built using Visual Studio
. While it is legacy software, it remains a "silent workhorse" for enterprise environments still utilizing VSTO-based extensions. Microsoft Learn Core Functionality The Bridge
: It provides the communication layer between your .NET solution and Microsoft Office applications. Architecture
: The 64-bit (-x64-) version is specifically designed for 64-bit editions of Microsoft Office on 64-bit Windows. Loader Component
: It includes an unmanaged DLL (VSTOLoader.dll) that handles security checks and loads the appropriate solution assembly into its own application domain. Microsoft Learn Key Benefits & Performance Essential Stability
: For users of older VSTO add-ins, this runtime is mandatory. Modern updates have resolved historical performance issues, such as a 15-20 second delay when closing Office apps. Compatibility
: It supports solutions targeting .NET Framework 3.5, 4.0, and newer versions like 4.8, ensuring long-term utility for legacy systems. Lightweight Deployment
: It is often included by default when you install Office, meaning most end-users never have to manage it manually. Microsoft Learn Critical Considerations & Drawbacks Legacy Status : Microsoft now recommends cross-platform JavaScript APIs
for new Office add-ins to support cloud and mobile environments. Security Risks
: As an older technology, there are known Common Vulnerabilities and Exposures (CVEs). Support Lifecycle
: The runtime follows the support lifecycle of the parent version of Visual Studio or Office it was shipped with. Removal Warning
: You can safely uninstall it if you do not use any Microsoft Office add-ins or Visual Studio. However, removing it may cause certain "extra" features in Excel or Word to stop working. Are you looking to troubleshoot an installation error with this runtime, or are you developing a new Office add-in
Introduction
Microsoft Visual Studio 2010 Tools for Office Runtime - x64 is a software component developed by Microsoft Corporation. It is a runtime environment that enables applications developed using Visual Studio 2010 to interact with Microsoft Office applications, such as Excel, Word, and PowerPoint.
What is Visual Studio 2010 Tools for Office Runtime?
Visual Studio 2010 Tools for Office Runtime is a set of libraries and tools that allow developers to create custom Office solutions, including add-ins, automation solutions, and document-level customizations. The runtime environment provides a set of APIs (Application Programming Interfaces) that enable .NET-based applications to interact with Office applications.
Key Features
The Visual Studio 2010 Tools for Office Runtime - x64 provides several key features, including:
Benefits
The Visual Studio 2010 Tools for Office Runtime - x64 provides several benefits to developers and users, including:
Installation and Requirements
The Visual Studio 2010 Tools for Office Runtime - x64 can be installed on a computer that meets the following requirements:
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Microsoft Visual Studio 2010 Tools for Office Runtime - x64 is a software component that enables developers to create custom Office solutions using Visual Studio 2010. The runtime environment provides a set of APIs and tools that simplify the development process, allowing developers to create Office solutions that are tightly integrated with Office applications. The -x64 version of the runtime environment is specifically designed for 64-bit Windows operating systems, providing support for 64-bit Office applications.
Microsoft Visual Studio 2010 Tools for Office Runtime -x64-: A Comprehensive Overview
Microsoft Visual Studio 2010 Tools for Office Runtime -x64- is a software component developed by Microsoft Corporation. It is a crucial part of the Microsoft Visual Studio 2010 suite, specifically designed to enable developers to create custom solutions for Microsoft Office applications. In this article, we will delve into the details of this software, its features, benefits, and usage.
What is Microsoft Visual Studio 2010 Tools for Office Runtime -x64-?
Microsoft Visual Studio 2010 Tools for Office Runtime -x64- is a runtime environment that allows .NET Framework-based solutions to interact with Microsoft Office applications, such as Microsoft Word, Excel, Outlook, and PowerPoint. This software provides a set of libraries, tools, and APIs that enable developers to create custom Office solutions, including add-ins, document-level customizations, and application-level extensions.
The "-x64-" in the name indicates that this software is specifically designed for 64-bit operating systems, which means it can take advantage of the increased memory and processing power offered by 64-bit architectures.
Key Features of Microsoft Visual Studio 2010 Tools for Office Runtime -x64-
The Microsoft Visual Studio 2010 Tools for Office Runtime -x64- offers a range of features that make it an essential tool for developers creating custom Office solutions. Some of the key features include:
Benefits of Using Microsoft Visual Studio 2010 Tools for Office Runtime -x64-
The Microsoft Visual Studio 2010 Tools for Office Runtime -x64- offers several benefits to developers and organizations that create custom Office solutions. Some of the key benefits include:
Usage Scenarios for Microsoft Visual Studio 2010 Tools for Office Runtime -x64-
The Microsoft Visual Studio 2010 Tools for Office Runtime -x64- is commonly used in a range of scenarios, including:
Installation and Configuration
The Microsoft Visual Studio 2010 Tools for Office Runtime -x64- can be installed on a computer running a 64-bit version of Windows. The installation process typically involves:
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Microsoft Visual Studio 2010 Tools for Office Runtime -x64- is a crucial software component for developers creating custom Office solutions. Its comprehensive set of APIs, tools, and libraries makes it an essential tool for creating custom add-ins, document-level customizations, and application-level extensions for Office applications. With its improved productivity, enhanced user experience, increased flexibility, and better support and maintenance, this software is a must-have for organizations and developers working with Microsoft Office.
Here’s a useful feature you can prepare for the Microsoft Visual Studio 2010 Tools for Office Runtime (x64) — especially useful when deploying Office add-ins or maintaining legacy solutions.
You are most likely to encounter this runtime when:
$dotnet45 = Get-ChildItem 'HKLM:\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\NET Framework Setup\NDP\v4\Full' -ErrorAction SilentlyContinue if ($dotnet45) $dotnetVersion = (Get-ItemProperty -Path $dotnet45.PSPath -Name Release).Release if ($dotnetVersion -ge 378389) Write-Host ".NET Framework 4.5+ detected - Good for VSTO." -ForegroundColor Green else Write-Host ".NET Framework 4.0 detected – compatibility limited." -ForegroundColor Yellow else Write-Host ".NET Framework 4.0+ missing!" -ForegroundColor Red
The 2010 runtime relies heavily on ClickOnce deployment technology and Code Access Security (CAS). CAS has been deprecated in newer .NET Frameworks (4.0+), though it is still supported for legacy scenarios. Organizations relying strictly on the 2010 runtime may face security audit challenges as they migrate to .NET Core or .NET 5/6/7+, which do not support the legacy VSTO architecture.
$vstoVersion = (Get-ItemProperty -Path $vstoRegPath -Name "Version" -ErrorAction SilentlyContinue).Version Write-Host "Version: $vstoVersion"
Date: October 26, 2023 Subject: Software Architecture, Deployment, and Legacy Support Focus: Visual Studio 2010 Tools for Office Runtime (VSTO) - x64 Architecture
The VSTO 2010 Runtime is designed with a degree of forward compatibility. While it was built for Office 2010, it can generally run add-ins targeting later versions of Office (2013, 2016, 2019, 365) provided the add-ins do not utilize APIs that were deprecated or removed in later versions. However, Microsoft recommends using the Visual Studio Tools for Office Runtime included with newer Visual Studio versions (VS 2012, 2015, 2017, 2019, 2022) for modern development, as these contain security patches and performance optimizations not present in the 2010 version.