This guide shows you how to convert C ++ source files to.exe files which are executable on most (not to say "all") Windows computers. This procedure also works with other extensions, such as.c ++,.cc, and.cxx (and.c in part, however not to be taken into consideration). This guide assumes that the C ++ source code is for a console application and does not need external libraries.
Steps
Step 1. First of all you will need a C ++ compiler
One of the best for Windows machines is Microsoft Visual C ++ 2012 Express.
Step 2. Start a new C ++ project
It is quite easy. Click "New Project" at the top left then follow the steps to create an "Empty Project". Then rename it and click "Finish" in the following pop-up window.
Step 3. Copy and paste all.cpp files into the "Source Files" directory and copy and paste all.h files (if any) into the "Header Files" directory
Rename the main.cpp file (the one containing "int main ()") with the project name you choose. The dependent external files will compile themselves
Step 4. Build and compile
Press the [F7] key after completing the above procedure to create the program.
Step 5. Find the.exe file
Navigate to the "Projects" file where Visual C ++ has installed all the programs (in Windows 7 it will be in documents). You will find the file named as you did before in the "Debug" directory.
Step 6. Try it
Double click on the.exe file to run it and if everything went well the program should work. If that doesn't work, try repeating the steps listed above.
Step 7. If you want the program to run on another computer, that computer must have the VC ++ Runtime libraries installed
C ++ programs built with Visual Studio need these file libraries. You won't need it on your computer since you already have Visual Studio installed. But your customers don't necessarily have these libraries. Download link:
Advice
- Make sure Visual C ++ Express is up to date to avoid compilation errors.
- Sometimes errors may occur if the original authors forgot to include the source code dependencies.
- In many cases it is better to have the files compiled by the original author. Compile these files yourself only if necessary.
Warnings
- Since the C ++ and C languages are low-level programming languages, they could harm your computer. Check if the.cpp file contains the line "#include" WINDOWS.h "at the top. If this line is present DO NOT compile the program and ask the user why they need to have access to the Windows API. If they do not answer fully, ask for help from an expert in a forum.
- STAY AWAY from Dev-C ++. It has an outdated compiler, 340 errors, and has not been updated for 5 years remaining in beta perpetually. If possible, USE ANY COMPILER BUT NOT THAT.
