What is C++ Programming Language?

Table Of Content

• Introduction
• The History of C++
  • Key milestones in C++ history:
• Key Features of C++
  • Object-Oriented Programming (OOP)
  • Memory Management
  • Templates
  • Standard Template Library (STL)
• What is Built with C++?
• How to Program in C++
  • Popular IDEs for C++
• Writing a Simple C++ Program
  • Step 1: Set Up a Development Environment
  • Step 2: Write Your First C++ Program
  • Step 3: Compile the Code
  • Step 4: Run the Program
  • Step 5: Debug and Optimize
• Conclusion

Introduction

C++ is a general-purpose programming language that combines low-level programming capabilities with modern development paradigms. It is widely used across various domains, from operating system development to game creation.

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The History of C++

C++ was created by Bjarne Stroustrup as an extension of the C programming language. His goal was to develop a language that could handle complex software development while maintaining high performance and scalability. One of his key innovations was the introduction of encapsulated classes, which laid the foundation for modern object-oriented programming (OOP).

Although C++ evolved significantly over time, Stroustrup ensured that it remained compatible with C. C++ code can still be converted into C using special translators, and its fundamental syntax closely resembles that of C.

Key milestones in C++ history:

• 1998 – C++98: The first standardized version of C++.
• C++11: Introduced lambda expressions, smart pointers, and multithreading.
• C++14 and C++17: Simplified syntax and enhanced libraries.
• C++20: Added concepts, coroutines, and improved modular programming.

In 2024, C++ remains one of the top three most widely used programming languages, alongside Python and JavaScript (TIOBE Index).

Key Features of C++

C++ offers a range of features that make it one of the most powerful programming languages available:

Object-Oriented Programming (OOP)

C++ supports classes, inheritance, polymorphism, and encapsulation, allowing developers to organize code efficiently. Example:

class Car {
public:
    std::string brand;
    int speed;

    void display() {
        std::cout << "Car brand: " << brand << ", Speed: " << speed << " km/h" << std::endl;
    }
};

int main() {
    Car car1;
    car1.brand = "Toyota";
    car1.speed = 120;
    car1.display();
    return 0;
}

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Memory Management

C++ allows direct memory management with new and delete, providing flexibility but requiring careful handling to prevent memory leaks.

int* ptr = new int(10);
std::cout << *ptr << std::endl;
delete ptr;

Templates

Templates enable the creation of generic functions and classes that work with different data types.

template <typename T>
T add(T a, T b) {
    return a + b;
}

int main() {
    std::cout << add(3, 5) << std::endl;
    std::cout << add(3.5, 2.1) << std::endl;
    return 0;
}

Standard Template Library (STL)

STL provides containers (vectors, lists), algorithms (sorting, searching), and iterators, simplifying application development.

#include <vector>
#include <algorithm>

int main() {
    std::vector<int> numbers = {5, 2, 9, 1, 5};
    std::sort(numbers.begin(), numbers.end());

    for (int num : numbers) {
        std::cout << num << " ";
    }
    return 0;
}

What is Built with C++?

C++ powers some of the world’s most essential software systems:

• Operating Systems: Windows, macOS components, and the Linux kernel.
• Game Engines: Unreal Engine, Unity (for performance-critical parts).
• Web Browsers: Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox (graphics processing and engine optimization).
• Graphic Editors: Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator.
• Scientific Computing: MATLAB and various simulation tools.
• Financial Systems: High-frequency trading platforms and banking software.
• Embedded Systems: Microcontrollers in IoT devices, cars, and home appliances.

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How to Program in C++

To develop in C++, programmers use Integrated Development Environments (IDEs) that simplify coding, debugging, and testing.

Popular IDEs for C++

• Visual Studio – A feature-rich IDE with powerful debugging tools.
• CLion – A JetBrains IDE with intelligent code completion.
• Code::Blocks – Lightweight and beginner-friendly.
• Dev-C++ – Fast and simple for small projects.
• Xcode – Ideal for macOS C++ development.
• Eclipse CDT – Adds C++ support to the Eclipse IDE.

Writing a Simple C++ Program

Step 1: Set Up a Development Environment

Install a C++ compiler (GCC, Clang, or Microsoft Visual C++) and choose an IDE like Visual Studio, CLion, or Code::Blocks.

Step 2: Write Your First C++ Program

Create a new file (program.cpp) and write:

#include <iostream> // Include library for input/output

int main() { // Entry point of the program
    std::cout << "Hello, World!" << std::endl; // Output text to screen
    return 0; // Exit the program
}

Step 3: Compile the Code

If using a terminal, navigate to your file’s directory and compile with GCC:

g++ program.cpp -o program

Step 4: Run the Program

Execute the compiled file:

./program

If successful, the output will be:

Hello, World!

Step 5: Debug and Optimize

Use debugging tools in your IDE to catch errors and optimize performance.

Conclusion

C++ is a powerful, flexible programming language that remains relevant in modern software development. Its speed, efficiency, and scalability make it a top choice for developing operating systems, game engines, and high-performance applications. Whether you're building games, financial systems, or embedded devices, mastering C++ opens doors to a wide range of opportunities. If you're looking to dive deeper, structured courses from Hexlet provide a great starting point for learning C and C++.