What is C++. And how do I use it? Do I need to download a program?

C++ is a programming language. The ++ bit means that is has Object Orientated Programming extensions. OOP for short. If you need to ask what C++ is, I would think of something else to spend your time on. Its not the easiest language to learn and without any previous programming experience, extremely difficult. You can count on about two years hard work just to become reasonably proficient. Do a search on Google for C++ compilers, but first, get yourself a good book on the subject. Stuart

I agree with Stuart... "If you need to ask what C++ is, I would think of something else to spend your time on." But at the same time, you have to start somewhere. Download a compiler at www.bloodshed.net (DevC++), then find you a good tutorial via google.com IR

hi In my view 'C++' is an extension of 'C' lang with Object Oriented features. Learning C++ is an advantage in today competition. U have to just get a C++ compiler Borland or Turbo and a good beginners book of C++ and start working on it. Good luck. srisailam

Bell Labs came up with a language/compiler named B. Then they made a better one and called it... C. THen Bjarn Stroustrup (sp?) augmented C once again... hence the ++. ++ means increment by one. so if x = 1, and you issue the command x++; x is then equal to 2. C++, java, php, c, and many other languages are VERY similar in syntax, the way commands are presented. Interesting to me, University of BUffalo doesn't even teach if statements and syntax until you have a thorough grounding in a bunch of object oriented stuff like uml class diagrams. If you decide to get into programming, do yourself a favor and start with a book that focuses on Object Oriented (or at least claims to).

incidentally, if you're going to get serious about programming, why not start with c#? you'll have to pay a little less than $100 for a visual c# compiler from microsoft, but c# is getting a lot more popular.