Introduction to C++
- C++ is a popular programming language (extension of C language) created by a Danish Computer Scientist, Bjarne Stroustrup in early 80`s.
- C++ is object oriented programming language.
- C++ is a middle level language – combination of high and low level language.
- The language was updated 4 major times in 2011, 2014, 2017, and 2020 to C++11, C++14, C++17, C++20.
Applications
C++ is most widely used in :
- Game Development.
- System Software Development.
- Application Software Development.
- Embedded Systems.
- High-Performance Computing.
- Networking and communication.
- Artificial Intelligence and machine learning.
Why to learn C++?
- Efficiency and Performance:C++ allows for low-level memory manipulation and direct hardware access, which results in efficient code execution.
- Object-Oriented Programming (OOP): C++ supports OOP which enables modular and organized code, promotes code reuse, and enhances maintainability and scalability of projects.
- Standard Template Library (STL): C++ provides a powerful library called the Standard Template Library (STL), which offers a collection of generic data structures (like vectors, lists, and queues) and algorithms (like sorting and searching).
- Portability: C++ code can be compiled and run on various platforms, including Windows, macOS, Linux, and embedded systems.
- Compatibility with C: : C++ is an extension of the C programming language. C++ compilers can compile most C programs with few modifications, making it easy to integrate existing C code into C++ projects.
- Industry Demand: C++ is widely used in various industries, including game development, system programming, finance, and embedded systems.
- Educational Value: Learning C++ can provide a solid foundation in programming concepts and principles. C++ requires a good understanding of memory management, pointers, and other low-level details, which can enhance your overall programming skills and prepare you for learning other languages and technologies. As C++ is close to C, C# and java, it makes it easy for programmers to switch to C++ or vice versa.
Syntax of C and C++:
As C++ is derived from C, both have almost the same syntax. C++ compilers can compile most C programs with few modifications, making it easy to integrate existing C code into C++ projects.
Difference of C and C++
The basic difference between C and C++ is Object Oriented Programming
| C++ | C |
| C++ allows the use of classes, objects, inheritance, polymorphism, and other OOP concepts | C is a procedural programming language and does not support OOP |
| C++ includes the Standard Template Library (STL), which provides a collection of generic data structures (like vectors, lists, and queues) and algorithms (like sorting and searching) | C does not have an equivalent standard library for these features. |
| C++ supports exception handling, which allows for the detection and handling of runtime errors or exceptional conditions | C does not have built-in support for exception handling, and error handling is typically done through error codes or return values. |