C++ is a general-purpose programming language. What does this mean? Simply put, it can be used to write literally anything, from an operating system to a computer game. Currently, there are a lot of implementations of this language, some of which are free, and some will have to be paid for. We can say that C++ inspired developers to create programming languages such as Java and C#.
The history of the creation of C ++
This programming language appeared in the early 80s of the 20th century. It was invented by Bjorn Stroustrup. C++ was created on the basis of the then existing S. Stroustrup originally called the new language “C with classes” because it implemented classes. In addition, virtual functions, links, constants, and much more have been added to the new programming language. A new commenting style (familiar to many//) has also appeared here. As a result, the resulting programming language was no longer an add-on to C and became an independent one.
Features of the C++ language
Due to the fact that C++ was created on the basis of the C programming language, he was able to learn from his parent's full rate of fire. At the same time, it is now used in all areas of programming.
Creating and maintaining operating systems
Initially, this language was created for system programming. Therefore, it is not surprising that it is actively used in the development of new operating systems and various software. C++ can work with low-level code, so it's almost ideal for OS development. At the same time, the use of this language allows you to subsequently flexibly configure the operating system.
Embedded systems development
The C++ language is great for programming embedded systems. This is primarily due to the fact that it has high performance and at the same time ease of use.
Such a tool is economical in terms of using resources. This allows you to run any program at high speed. As a result, embedded systems can operate without slowing down in real time.
Such built-in systems include, for example, controlling unmanned vehicles, sensors, and smartwatches. At the same time, C++ or C can work with memory resources and therefore it is possible to make changes to any part of the code.
Games and engines
This is an integral part of programming today. The video game industry has huge potential. It is important to note that performance is very important in games, which significantly reduces the use of programming languages.
The fastest to date is C++. That is why it is actively used in the development of 3D and multiplayer games that are particularly demanding on resources.
Games such as Counter Strike, Diablo I, StarCraft: Blood War, and World of Warcraft have been created in C++. And that's not including all gaming products created for Xbox and Playstation consoles.
The most popular game engine today is Unity. C++ was also used when writing its core. At the same time, the tools for developing this language can work with the most complex graphics.
Desktop and cross-platform apps
This is another area where the C++ language is actively used. Moreover, it is used everywhere here, as it allows you to create cross-platform software. C++ also has a lot of interesting libraries that make the programmer's work even more flexible.
The most famous masterpieces include Photoshop, Illustrator, and Adobe Premiere. By the way, Facebook partially migrated from PHP to C++.
Advantages and disadvantages of C++
The benefits of this language include:
- High speed. You can open any programming language speed tester, and you'll see that C++ is one of the fastest. At the same time, you can use any language to solve local problems. But if you need to write the entire application in one language, C++ will do an excellent job.
- Versatility. C++ compilers are available in any operating system. At the same time, programs written in this language can be easily executed on any platform.
- Wide range of applications. The C++ language can be used to develop literally everything from the Internet of Things to smartwatches, autonomous vehicles and games.
- A big community. The language is constantly being updated and various useful innovations are being introduced here. But that's not all. C++ is supplemented with libraries and templates that can be useful to both experienced programmers and novice developers. In addition, many useful books and tutorials have been written under C++ that will help you quickly learn the subtleties of the language.
- The principles of C++ are embedded in many modern programming languages. That's why those. Those who study it thoroughly will be able to easily master it Java, JavaScript or C#, for example. Java, too, will be difficult to understand unless you learn at least the basics of C++.
- High level of demand. Programmers working with C++ are in high demand today, and all over the world.
As for the shortcomings, they only include the fact that it is quite complicated in terms of syntax and understanding. It will take much longer to learn C++ than to learn JavaScript, for example. However, as a result, the developer will be rewarded for their work. Not only can he easily get a job, but his knowledge of C++ will help him learn almost any modern development language in the future, which will be an undeniable advantage.
There is one more important caveat. Today, many developers, having studied, for example, JS, do not always understand what they are doing and why. Hence, the error code is in the error code, and the application may not work as it should. By learning and understanding C++ before starting new languages, you can avoid many of the mistakes that lie in wait for all novice developers.
Despite its complex syntax, where a simple program can take thousands of lines of code, this language is still the basis of the basics.
Outlook
Is C++ worth studying in the 21st century? Despite the fact that the language is quite ancient by the standards of modern programming, it has not lost its relevance. Moreover, many modern programs are written on it, and some applications are rewritten partially or completely under C++ to add flexibility and optimize the use of resources.
Today it is difficult to name an area where the C++ programming language is not or could not be used. Moreover, one of its features is that you can write any application in its entirety using this language without resorting to others. Although this is rare today, this is the reality.
C++ is still actively used in programming. The thing is that it's flexible and fast. And most importantly, it remains one of the most effective, capable of solving any development problem. And in some cases, C++, as well as its ancestor C, are simply irreplaceable.
Will that language lose its relevance in the near future? Probably not. The fact is that all modern languages are relatively simple and flexible. However, they are often niche. For example, JavaScript is better suited for web development, Swift — one of the best tools for creating mobile applications on iOS, as well as programming for MAC.
As for C++, it is fully cross-platform. That is, it can be used to create applications for literally any operating system, both for desktop and mobile devices.
Another important point is that C++ and C are the main languages for developing the Internet of Things. This area continues to develop actively and may become global in the near future. Accordingly, these languages will continue to be relevant in the near future.
