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Danish developer, Bjarne Stroustrup, created C++ in 1979 as an extension of C.
It has evolved as a general purpose language that is most often used as a compiled language but supports object-oriented languages so well that some consider it object-oriented in itself.
C++ is one of the most popular programming languages in the world. My Tech Decisions ranked it the fifth most popular language in 2021 while the TIOBE Index ranked it fourth on its list for number of lines of code written. It is updated and standardized every three years. It has improved upon C since it permits function overloading and exception handling. Coders and companies use C++ because of its efficiency and versatility in software development. It also “supports dynamic memory allocation.” These advantages will ensure that C++ remains at the top of rankings for years to come.
While it has a variety of uses, C++ is most often present in operating systems, embedded systems, Graphical User Interfaces (GUIs), and databases. C++ has been used in Windows and Linux operating systems as well as iOS and Android applications. It also lends itself well to databases and is incorporated in databases used in Twitter, YouTube, Facebook, Google, and Amazon.
Since C++ can be used in multiple ways, learning C++ makes you very marketable in the technology field. It can be used for developing everything from operating systems and browsers to games and apps. It also supports a variety of types of programming including functional, procedural, object-oriented programming.
C++ can be adapted to and intertwined with other programming languages, making it portable. It can also be used across platforms using compilers. This means that once written, the code can be ran through a compiler for any machine type and used. When applications need multiple platforms or to run on multiple devices, C++ is a no-brainer.
C++, like C, is designed to execute lines of code quickly since it type checks code before its execution. Because of this, many web browsers use it in their rendering engines. Chrome, Safari, and Firefox all use C++ because of its speed. Applications that utilize graphics also benefit from using C++ because of its speed.
The Standard Template Library (STL) contains algorithms, iterators, functions, and containers. This pre-written code and set of resources provides great support for coders and makes writing code with C++ quicker. Since the code is already written and tested, it lends itself to less errors and is more secure.
Communities like The C++ Alliance, groups, and forums are there to assist programmers as they dive into the language. This established support system is a huge benefit to learning C++. Need pre-written code or have questions about how to write something in your program? These groups and forums in the community are ready and willing to help.
C++ programmers are in high demand because of the popularity of the language. In 2022, there are an estimated 5.4 million programmers using C++, and the number continues to grow. C++ programmers are also well compensated for their skills.
Read more below about how to learn C++ from bootcamps that will prepare you with the skills needed to successfully build a career in the programming world.
In order to learn this language on your own, first download a compiler that is compatible with your operating system. Next, search for tutorials, introductory online courses, and online programs to help you learn. Some are more structured than others so you can choose the level of assistance that is right for you. There are also reputable books that you can look to for step-by-step guides to learning the language. If you would like a more structured and in-depth program, a bootcamp may be right for you. Bootcamps are offered in a variety of settings including in-person, online, and in hybrid combinations. They offer comprehensive curriculums and supports to prepare you to enter the coding world.