What is C++?

Learn that C++ is a powerful, multi-paradigm language and the compilation process.

What is C++?

C++ is a compiled, multi-paradigm programming language created in 1985 by Bjarne Stroustrup at Bell Labs. It is still updated today under the C++20 standard.

C++ is a compiled language: you turn your source code into machine code with a compiler such as g++. The resulting executable runs directly on the operating system.

C++ is used for game engines, browsers, operating systems and high-performance server applications. It excels in any field that needs speed and close-to-hardware control.

What can you build with C++?

C++'s power comes from the fields it targets:

Game engines: Unreal Engine and most AAA games are written in C++
Browsers: the cores of Chrome and Firefox are largely C++
Operating systems: parts of Windows and macOS are C++
Embedded systems: microcontrollers and real-time systems

This versatility makes C++ worth learning.

Test yourself

Where was C++ born?
- At Apple
- At Google
- At Microsoft
- At Bell Labs
Show answer

At Bell Labs — C++ was created by Bjarne Stroustrup at Bell Labs.
Match the concepts

C++

Programming language
C++20

Standard
g++

Compiler
.cpp

Source file
Which one is NOT written in C++?
- The Linux kernel
- The Chrome browser core
- The Unreal Engine game engine
- Adobe Photoshop
Show answer

The Linux kernel — The Linux kernel is written in C, not C++.

C++ source file

C++ source code is usually written in a file with the ____ extension.

Show answer

C++ source code is usually written in a file with the .cpp extension.

Next lesson: Your first program

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