title: What are the benefits of an ASHX handler file in asp.net?
body: <p>What are the benefits of using an ashx, or handler?  Also, do I need them if I use MVC (and why not)?</p>
  
  <p>Does the framework matter (2.0+)?</p>
  
  <p>Why would I want to use a handler? I was recently recommended to use one for retrieving an image but I don't know why.</p>
  
  <p>Thank you for your time.</p>
  
  <p>Edit - is a handler faster?</p>