Free Open-Source IDE for Windows

Dev-C++ is a free integrated development program for Windows that helps reduce the manual work required when programming.  Dev-C++ comes with a wide range of features such as an integrated debugger, class browser, automatic code completion, function listing, profiling support, customizable code editor, project manager, and pre-made templates for various projects, tools manager, and more.

A free IDE to write and compile in C/C++

Dev-C++ is a Windows-friendly Integrated Development Environment (IDE) that lets software developers write, edit and compile code in one place for both C and C++ programming languages. C++ is an extension of C and is often used to develop computer operating systems, computer games, and web browsers.

The software is free (under a GNU General Public Licence) for distribution and modifiable.

Because Dev-C++ is a native Windows app and only uses a small amount of memory, it won’t cause your computer to slow down. It uses the MinGW compiler to create C and C++ applications and could work in conjunction with other compilers that are GCC-based, such as Cygwin.

What features does Dev-C++ offer?

Dev-C++ lets you create, edit, and execute programs in C languages. It also comes with useful features that help increase your efficiency when coding.  

DevPaks are an extensive collection of add-on libraries for Dev-C++. They can include services and utilities for the GUI and also provide useful toolboxes like FLTK, wxWidgets, and GTK+. Installing DevPaks is an easy task as each package consists of a setup program resulting in a simple installation process.

The integrated debugger (using GDB) lets you check each line of code for errors and conflicts and fix or remove bugs. When your project is complete, you can create an EXE record to share and distribute.

Similar to other IDEs like Microsoft Visual Studio and IntelliJ Idea, Dev-C++ provides an autocomplete feature to help speed up your coding. It’s a nice feature for beginners as it can help you with your syntax by reducing the number of typos and other common errors made. Plus, it removes the need to remember each function.

For more advanced users, it saves time by not having to write out each line of code fully so you can focus more on your project.

Another feature is the syntax highlighter. It makes reading the source code more manageable. Giving a unique color to each keyword, variable, constant, and other items increases the overall readability of the code, so you can internalize the program’s semantics.

Other features include a project management tool to manage multiple projects at once, built-in find and replace functionality, profiling support, CVS support, Makefile generation. Dev-C++ is available in more than 30 languages.

Is Dev-C++ available for Mac?

Dev-C++ for mac is not available at this time, but there are alternatives you can use:

•  XCode lets you develop apps for Apple Watch, Apple TV, iPhone, iPad, and Mac
• Eclipse and Code::Blocks are also compatible with macOS

How do I install Dev-C++?

To install Dev-C++, you can follow these steps:

• First, download the program and then open the installer
• Choose your language from the dropdown menu
• Read and click ‘I Agree’ to the license agreement text
• Now choose which components you want to install. Specific components such as the Dev-C++ program file are required while others, like the language files, are optional
• Next, you’ll be prompted to select a destination folder to install the Dev-C++ files and libraries. Click Install if you’re ok with the shown destination folder to begin the installation progress or choose another location
• Once the installation is finished, you can launch the Dev-C++ IDE

How do you debug C++?

Using the debugger in Dev-C++ is relatively simple. You will find all of the essential debugging functions in the ‘Debug’ tab at the program window’s bottom. If you need to access more advanced functions, you can access them by clicking on ‘Debug’ in the main menu.

To use the debugger, you click on the ‘Debug’ tab and then the ‘Run to cursor’ icon. Doing so will cause your program to run where the code cursor is currently pointing. Clicking ‘Next step’ will cause the debugger to step through the code.

You can monitor variables by clicking on ‘Add Watch’ and add individual breakpoints by clicking in the black space, which is adjacent to the line in the source code.  

Does Dev-C++ support Python?

Yes, Dev-C++ supports Python. You will need to download and install the Python Development Pak. To ensure that your Dev-C++ IDE locates the correct file path, clicking on tools > compiler options > directories > c includes c and c++ includes has the correct path to where your Python.h is located.

What are the alternatives?

Dev-C++ does a good job of providing an all-in-one programming environment. But it’s not the only free IDE available to download. Microsoft Visual Studio is one of the most popular alternatives with a basic free option and a paid version with even more features and tools.

Code::Blocks is another alternative that you could try. Unlike Dev-C++, Code::Blocks works on Apple computers (macOS) and has plugin functionality, making it easy to add features and tools.

A lightweight IDE for Windows

Dev-C++ is a lightweight IDE with a decent set of tools. Because it’s a native Windows application, it only requires a small number of computer resources. Dev-C++ is a good IDE for beginners due to its streamlined initial setup, simple user interface, and all-in-one platform for writing, editing, debugging, and compiling code.

If, however, you’re looking for a more advanced IDE or one that’s more suitable for experienced programmers, then you should check out Visual Studio, Atom IDE, or Code::Blocks.

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Bloodshed Dev-C++ is a full-featured programming environment and compiler for creating software in C++. Included in the Dev-C++ environment are all of the standard features necessary for writing, compiling, debugging, and executing programs written in C.

Strictly for the hard-core C++ programmer, Dev-C++ allows you to compose all of your source code without many of the hand-holding features and expenses included in many of the available programming environments.