Did you know C++ ranked as the second most popular programming language in 2024? It surpassed JavaScript, PHP, and Ruby, too! Even after 40 years, it remains a favorite among developers worldwide. But what makes C++ so special?
C++ is both a low-level and high-level programming language. This versatility allows it to work closely with hardware. Thanks to this, it aids developers in creating multiple kinds of software. As an extended and improved version of the C programming language, it uses syntax similar to that of C and Java. This makes it easier to learn for developers who work with other languages.
What is C++? In this blog, we’ll dive into the depths of this unique programming language. One that has been making history!
Key takeaways:
- What is C++ history?
- The impressive uses of C++
- What qualities give C++ an advantage over other languages and the core concepts?
- What is C++ limitations?
What is the History of C++?
Initially known as C with classes, C++ has had a long journey. The original plan was to create a language with all the features of C-but better. So, what had to change? Adding object-oriented programming features while maintaining C’s efficiency. This began in 1979 when Danish Scientist Bjarne Stroustrup got the idea.
When was it released?
Bjarne started the development work himself. However, a small team later joined him and worked on the project. Finally, they achieved success. The first ever version of C++ was released in 1985. Afterward, this language went through various updates and improvements. As of 2024, 23% of software developers reported using C++ in their projects worldwide.
Where is C++ Used?
As a general-purpose programming language, C++ is used in a variety of software and apps, such as:
1. Video games
Have you ever played video games with jaw-dropping graphics? C++ makes these high-performing immersive gaming experiences possible.
2. Embedded Systems
C++ gives embedded systems the ability to manage complex systems. Its object-oriented features make this possible. Embedded systems built with C++ are high-performing and efficient.
3. Machine Learning (ML)
Machine learning applications built on C++ are well-known for their quick execution speed. It also gives excellent memory management.
4. Finance applications
Finance applications built on C++ are generally able to handle large volumes of data. That banking app that never crashes? It was built using C++!
5. Browsers
C++ is widely used by most modern browsers today. Specifically, due to its cross-platform compatibilities and memory management, the codes written in C++ run on different systems easily.
6. Operating systems
Operating systems show the most impressive uses of C++. Its rich library and ease of coding allow developers to build robust Operating Systems from scratch. Scientific research
C++ has shown to be a valuable asset in scientific computing. It allows for flexibility and support for big systems mostly used for research. What is C++ and its capabilities? You can tell by this!
Here is some famous software built on C++
What is C++ and its abilities? You’ve probably used at least one of these famous software below:
- Microsoft Office suite: A collection of applications built on C++ as the core programming language.
- Adobe Photoshop: A popular graphics editor originally written in PASCAL. Adobe later updated its code and rewrote it using C++.
- Mozilla Firefox: Web browser with Most of its code written in C++ and JavaScript.
- Spotify: A high-performance music-listening and video app. Spotify uses a lot of programming languages, including C++
- Windows Operating System: If you’re viewing this on a Desktop, chances are, you’re on the Windows OS, which uses C++ and C.
C++ goes far and beyond as a procedural programming language and may exceed Python or JavaScript in many aspects.
Why is C++ preferred over other languages?
Developers often prefer C++ over other programming languages like Python or JavaScript. Why is that so? what is C++ specialty? C++ is a language that allows you to express yourself in a technical sense. It gives you many choices to experiment with and build almost any kind of technology. Here’s why:
1. Speed
C++ generates code the quickest compared to other languages, resulting in faster execution times. Additionally, it has features like manual memory management and low-level system access. These abilities enable developers to optimize their code for specific hardware configurations where performance is critical.
2. Compatibility
C++ was designed as an extended version of C. This allows developers to use C libraries and functions within C++ programs. It makes C++ easier to use for those who are familiar with C. Additionally, C++ has many features that are not found in C. So, this backward compatibility gives C++ an upper hand.
3. Smart pointers
Smart pointers are a unique part of the C++ Standard Library. They help with memory management. It reduces the risk of memory leaks and dangling pointers. Unlike traditional pointers, smart pointers ensure that the memory they point to is automatically freed when it’s no longer in use.
4. Flexibility
Although C++ is known best for being object-oriented, it isn’t limited to that. It also supports procedural programming and functional programming. This flexibility allows a diverse selection that is best suited for any project.
5. Works closely with Hardware
Middle-level language properties allow C++ to work closely with hardware and software. C++ helps the programs establish a strong connection with each other. By offering direct access to memory and low-level resources, C++ delivers programs with maximum performance.
6. Rich Library
C++ has a huge and detailed Standard Library. It provides a lot of pre-built functions and data structures that make development simple. Think of having a platform that has several features that allow you easy access to develop technology.
The Core Concepts of C++
What is C++ and its core concepts? C++’s versatility makes it a powerful language. This is because of its powerful core concepts. They form the basis for writing efficient and optimized code. They also help manage memory and control the flow of execution in programs. Understanding how each of these elements functions and interacts with the others is key to using the full potential of C++ in any software project.
1. Variables and Data Types
In C++, variables are used to store data. These variables have specific data types that determine the kind of data it can hold. Each variable has its own data type. Some common data types include:
- int for integers
- float for floating-point numbers
- char for characters
- bool for Boolean values
These data types command the operations performed on the data and the amount of memory allocated.
2. Arrays and pointers
Arrays in C++ are collections of elements of the same data type. These are stored in contiguous memory locations. Meanwhile, pointers store another variable’s memory address, allowing dynamic memory allocation and efficient array manipulation. Pointers also simulate call-by-reference, enabling functions to modify variables other than their scope.
3. Control Structures
Control structures in C++ dictate the flow of program execution. They include conditional statements like:
- if, else if, and else, which execute code blocks based on the conditions asked for.
- Loops such as for, while, and do-while allow repeated execution of code blocks. This allows tasks like iteration over arrays and repeated calculations.
These control structures can enable you to implement logic and algorithms in C++ programs.
4. STL (Standard Template Library)
In C++, The STL is a collection of template-based classes and functions. These provide standard implementations of common data structures and algorithms. This standard template library is rich with features. It improves productivity for developers and makes working with it better. By delivering high-performance and ready-made solutions for common problems, the STL is a strong core concept.
5. Object-Oriented Programming (OOP)
As an OOP language, you are able to organize your code into objects. This cuts down the need to write lines of code in C++. Each object has properties and actions that it can do. Classes are blueprints for your object. In OOP, objects can share and learn from each other in special ways, such as
- Inheritance: when one thing gets properties or behaviors from another.
- Polymorphism: when one thing can do different actions depending on the situation.
- Encapsulation: keeping information inside an object safe and hidden
- Abstraction: hiding complicated details so you don’t have to worry about them.
In C++, these concepts help organize and structure code to make it more manageable and reusable. These core concepts can tell what is C++ core concepts and why they make it unique.
What are the Challenges and Limitations we face with C++?
Despite its unique abilities and strong values, C++ has limits. Developers face a few challenges when working with C++. Here are a few:
1. Hard to learn
C++ is harder to learn for beginners because of its complex concepts and advanced syntax. It is more complex than Python or JavaScript. Many developers take 1-3 months just to learn the basics. Sounds complicated, right? But that’s the best part. The harder it is, the more advantages you have up your sleeve.
2. No memory collection
C++ lacks a built-in garbage collector. Therefore, developers are responsible for manually managing memory allocation and deallocation. This needs to be done carefully, or it could potentially result in memory leaks. On the brighter side, this lack of automatic garbage collection is what gives C++ its high speed and performance.
3. Security concerns
The low-level nature of C++ puts it at risk of security vulnerabilities that could lead to privacy issues and threats. This is because it relies on manual memory management. However, with proper knowledge of these, you can easily address them while cleaning your code. Some of the most common threats include:
- Buffer overflow is the most common security concern associated with C++ applications. It occurs when a program writes data beyond the buffer’s bound set. This corrupts the adjacent memory.
- Pointer initialization: When a pointer is not correctly initialized, it may expose a lot of sensitive data.
- Integer overflow and underflow occur when the value you’re trying to store in the integer exceeds the maximum representable value. This leads to unexpected memory behavior. Potentially meaning corruption and breaches.
- Injection attacks involve inserting malicious code into a program. This often leads to unintended execution.
- Incorrect type conversion occurs when a program treats one data type as a different one. This can cause a lot of data to be lost.
4. Lengthy compilation time
C++ takes a long compilation time, especially for large projects. The complex language features result in extensive work by the compiler. This helps optimize the code. What is C++ compilation time for large projects? It could take months!
5. High-level Features but Low-level control
High-level features and low-level control are why C++ is categorized as a middle-level language. However, this is an advantage in many conditions, and it may become a challenge sometimes. This also means that the developer needs to have a detailed understanding of the hardware as well.
How C++ Tools enhance its functions
C++ tools are software applications. These can be used to develop C++ programs effectively. The tools are feature-rich and designed to enhance the developers’ productivity. Here are a few of them:
1. ReSharper C++
ReSharper C++ is a Visual Studio extension that simplifies the C++ development experience. It could be your best friend when coding with C++.
- Identify potential issues in your C++ code, such as syntax errors and code smells.
- provides smart code completion even before they are fully typed. Refactoring:
- Allows safe and powerful code restructuring without introducing errors.
2. CppDepend
CppDepend is a static analysis tool for coding in both C and C++. This tool helps with code review and architectural analysis, and makes it easier.
- displays complex code relationships with graphs and matrices.
- lets users create custom rules and queries to examine aspects of their codebase.
- Tracks and displays code quality changes over time via trend charts.
3. CppCheck
Cppcheck is an analysis that doesn’t detect syntax errors. It only detects the bugs that compilers normally fail to detect.
- It supports a lot of platforms. Example: unix32, unix64
- focuses on detecting abnormal behaviour and dangerous coding constructs
- Helps detect real and serious errors
4. Code::Blocks
Code::Blocks is an open-source IDE that supports multiple compilers. One of those is Visual C++, which is most common with C and C++ compilers.
- Provides a platform to write, compile, and debug code.
- Can be used on various operating systems.
- Users can customize their interface and features to suit their needs.
These tools and IDE make it easier to deal with code in C++.
Conclusion
By the end of this blog, we hope you have a clear idea and understanding of what is C++. In summary, it is an excellent object-oriented and procedural programming language. It strikes the perfect balance between hardware and software. C++ is an excellent language with many advantages and limitations.
At Linkitsoft, our experienced developers utilize C++ and other programming languages. This helps us create advanced and complex programs. Contact Linkitsoft today and learn more about the wonders your projects can do with the help of C++.
