I keep getting a pop up window to load .Net framework, even though it is already loaded on the computer.
The SmartClient-Player.exe should open directly from the installed path “[C:\Program](file:C:/Program) Files\Milestone\XProtect Smart Client” or from the Exported folder.
Also note that on modern Windows, the .Net framework 3.5 and 4.0 are preinstalled with Windows.
Perhaps you should re-install the Smart Client (Latest Smart Client 2016 R2 much recommended).