Setup and Installation
Before writing C++ programs, we need a proper setup on our system. In this lesson, you will learn how to prepare your computer to write, compile, and run C++ programs.
Do not worry if this feels technical at first. We will go step by step, and once the setup is done, you will rarely need to change it again.
What Do We Need to Run C++ Programs?
To work with C++, you need two main things:
- A compiler – converts C++ code into executable programs
- A code editor or IDE – where you write your code
Some tools provide both of these together, which makes learning easier.
Understanding the C++ Compiler
A compiler reads your C++ source code and translates it into machine-level instructions that the computer can execute.
One of the most commonly used C++ compilers is:
- GCC (GNU Compiler Collection)
On Windows, GCC is usually accessed through tools like MinGW. On macOS and Linux, it is often already available or easy to install.
Installing C++ on Windows
If you are using Windows, the recommended approach for beginners is to install MinGW, which provides the GCC compiler.
After installation, you must add MinGW to the system PATH so that the compiler can be accessed from the command line.
To verify installation, open Command Prompt and run:
g++ --version
If version information appears, the compiler is installed correctly.
Installing C++ on macOS
On macOS, C++ tools come with Xcode Command Line Tools. This is the simplest and recommended setup.
Download Xcode Command Line Tools (macOS)
You can also install them directly from the Terminal:
xcode-select --install
Once installed, the C++ compiler is ready to use.
Installing C++ on Linux
Most Linux distributions already include GCC or allow easy installation.
For Ubuntu or Debian-based systems, use:
sudo apt update
sudo apt install g++
After installation, verify it using:
g++ --version
Choosing a Code Editor or IDE
A code editor helps you write and manage your code efficiently. A popular and beginner-friendly choice is Visual Studio Code.
Other options include Code::Blocks and CLion, but any editor is fine as long as it allows you to write and compile C++ code.
How a C++ Program Is Built
Once everything is installed, the typical workflow looks like this:
- You write C++ code in a
.cppfile - The compiler converts it into an executable file
- You run the executable to see the output
We will practice this workflow in the next lesson.
Common Setup Problems
Beginners often face a few common issues during setup:
- Compiler not found because PATH is not set
- Using the wrong terminal or command prompt
- Installing an editor without a compiler
Do not get discouraged. These issues are normal and easy to fix with practice.
Key Takeaways
- C++ requires a compiler and a code editor
- MinGW is commonly used on Windows
- macOS and Linux provide built-in tools
- Download tools only from official sources
What’s Next
In the next lesson, we will write and run your first C++ program step by step.