Buying a Compiler

[KyleH]

Hello, I've had a one year class in C++ programming, and I was wondering, what's the best way to buy a compiler? I'd really prefer a cheap one with possibly some protections for a novice since I'm afraid of damaging my computer with programming mistakes.

[z05DSL3A]

Are you in full time education? Some companies offer good prices to students. You have not said what platform you are developing on.

[Duthomhas]

Must you buy a compiler?

You can get some of the best in the industry for free:
http://www.cplusplus.com/forum/beginner/2088/
http://www.cplusplus.com/forum/lounge/1305/

Not free, but a really, really good one, Comeau C++
http://www.comeaucomputing.com/

Hope this helps.

[KyleH]

Ok, thanks. I'll look into one of those free ones at least first.

[cyberpirate]

here is a list of compelers for all operating systems. both for free and ones U pay for.
http://www.research.att.com/~bs/compilers.html

[QWERTYman]

If using windows, the Dev-C++ package comes with a MinGW compiler, and dozens of downloadable compilers like Borland:
www.bloodshed.net (don't know how to hyperlink)

[bornloser006]

If you're using Windows and you're still a student, Microsoft's DreamSpark (https://downloads.channel8.msdn.com/ ) program is a great way to get a free copy of Visual Studio C++ 2008.

If you're not a student, the Express Edition (www.microsoft.com/express/) of Visual Studio 2008 is still free and may do all the things you need.

If you're on a Linux distro (i.e. ubuntu), give Anjuta (http://anjuta.sourceforge.net/) a shot. I used it throughout a one semester course in C++ and it worked like a charm. It's really just a great all around IDE in my opinion. I wish I could see it ported to Windows or Mac :(.