What is C++ Programming Language? An Introduction

C++ Programming Language is a high-level language (some consider it mid-level also) developed as a better version of C language. It follows the object-oriented approach.

It is regarded as middle level, close to low-level programming, suitable for drivers and kernels and even higher-level for applications, desktop applications, games, etc.

In this blog, you will learn from scratch to an advanced level for C++ programming. If you are a newbie, you can easily learn the C++ programming language through this blog, and if you are a professional, do try the quiz section to test your knowledge. Please mind that C++ and C# are not the same. If you want to learn what are differences between C# and C++ are, you can read this article instead.

C++ Programming Language

C++ is widely encouraged for Competitive Programming because of its fast execution and easy to use, and it is a versatile tool for Professional Coders. Some advantages of using C++ programming languages are:

1. Widely used to code and design architecture for Database Engines like MySql, MongoDB, etc.
2. Most Browsers are programmed in C++ like Chrome and Firefox.
3. C++ is encouraged for distributed and Cloud Computing.
4. Many Graphic Engines and Game Engines uses C++.
5. Many Operating Systems, as well as software like Microsoft Redistributable and DirectX, are written in C++.

How is C++ different from C?

C++ is a programming language that was created to improve upon the deficiencies of the C programming language. C++ was designed to be an extension of C, hence its original name, “C with Classes”. The main difference between the two languages is that C++ allows for the object-oriented programming paradigm, while C does not. This means that C++ code is usually written more modularly, with distinct objects interacting with each other, while C code is more linear.

C++ also provides many more features than C, such as function overloading, templates, and exception handling. These features allow for more robust and flexible code to be written in C++. Due to the additional features and object-oriented programming paradigm, C++ code is generally more complex than C code. This can make C++ programs more difficult to understand and debug.

Overall, C++ is a more powerful and flexible programming language than C. However, this comes at the cost of increased complexity. Whether C++ or C is the better language to use depends on the particular application.

How to Learn C++ Programming?

Students are advised to learn C and then C++ first, as it gives them a basic idea of any programming language and data structure. It is fun to learn C++. Learning C and C++ are almost the same; the main differences that lie in between them are:

• C++ has OOPS (Object Oriented Programming) support, emphasising the main features like Abstraction, Polymorphism, Encapsulation, and Inheritance.
• It requires at least one function, like main(), for execution.
• Its syntax is much easier to learn, and hence debugging becomes easy.

Several noteworthy characteristics and essential elements regarding the programming language include the following:

• Simple: It is a simple language in the sense that programmes may be decomposed into logical units and components, that it supports a large number of libraries, and that it supports a wide range of data types.
• A C++ executable is not platform-independent (compiled applications on Linux will not execute on Windows) but machine-independent.
• It is a mid-level language since it enables us to develop both systems (drivers, kernels, networking, etc.) and large-scale user applications (Media Players, Photoshop, Game Engines etc.)
• For quick and speedy development, has comprehensive library support (both standard built-in data structures, algorithms, and so on) as well as third-party libraries (e.g. Boost libraries).
• Execution speed: C++ applications are very fast. Because it is a compiled language, it is also quite procedural. Newer languages provide more built-in default features like garbage collection, dynamic typing, and so on; this might slow down the programme’s total execution. Because C++ has no such added processing cost, it is lightning quick.
• C++ has pointer support, which enables users to modify storage addresses directly. This is advantageous while doing low-level programming (where one might need to have explicit control over the storage of variables).
• Object-Oriented: One of the language’s major aspects that distinguishes it from C. Support for object-oriented programming enables C++ to create manageable and expandable applications. That is, large-scale applications may be developed. Maintaining procedural code gets more challenging as the codebase increases in size.
• C++ is a compiled language, which contributes to its speed.

The Main Applications of C++ Applications

C++ is a versatile language that can be used for a wide variety of purposes. One of the most popular uses for C++ is game development. Many of the most popular video games are built using C++, including titles like Halo, Gears of War, and Forza Motorsport.

Other popular uses for C++ include developing business applications, creating system utilities, and creating cross-platform applications. C++ is also frequently used in research and development because it handles complex algorithms and data structures.

Despite its many uses, C++ is not without its drawbacks. One of the biggest complaints about C++ is its complexity. The language can be difficult to learn and understand, making developing applications with it challenging.

Another downside to C++ is its performance. While C++ is generally very fast, it can be slower than other languages regarding certain tasks. This is often because C++ code can be very complex and difficult to optimize.

Overall, C++ is a powerful and versatile language that has a wide range of uses. While it may have some drawbacks, its strengths far outweigh its weaknesses. If you’re looking for a language that can be used for various purposes, C++ is a great option to consider.