I'm new to .NET but I'm looking at starting to develop using ASP.NET using C#.

I've seen an open source IDE called sharpdevelop - how does this stand up against Visual Studio.NET?

In standard ASP you needed objects to mail server-side and upload files for example. Are there many built in objects for ASP.NET or would I still need to buy components for more complex operations. Is there a list of built in components anywhere?

Any suggestions for good books with ASP.NET and C# in mind would be appreciated.

DJ