Introduction to C++ in 2025: Where to Start Learning

Introduction to C++: Where to Start in 2025

C++ is one of the most powerful and in-demand programming languages. Despite its age (the language appeared in 1985), it continues to actively evolve and remains the foundation for developing high-performance applications, games, operating systems, financial systems, and much more. In 2025, C++ is still in the top 5 languages according to TIOBE and IEEE Spectrum.

In this article, we will break down where to start learning C++ in 2025: from installing a compiler to writing your first program. The material is intended for beginners who are already familiar with the basics of programming (for example, in Python) but want to master C++.

Why is C++ Relevant in 2025?

C++ maintains its leadership in several key areas:

• Game Industry: Unreal Engine, CryEngine, Godot (partially) are written in C++.
• High-Load Systems: servers, databases, browsers (Chromium).
• Embedded Systems and IoT: microcontrollers, robotics.
• Financial Sector: algorithmic trading requires minimal latency.
• Artificial Intelligence: TensorFlow, PyTorch libraries have a C++ core.

In 2025, the new C++23 and C++26 (in development) standards were released, which added modules, coroutines, improved memory management, and concepts. This makes the language even more convenient and safe.

Step 1: Installing a Compiler and Development Environment

To start working with C++, you will need a compiler and a code editor. Here are three main options:

Option 1: MinGW (Windows) + VS Code

• Download MinGW-w64 (for example, from winlibs.com).
• Install it, add the bin folder to the PATH environment variable.
• Install Visual Studio Code, add the C/C++ extension from Microsoft.

Option 2: Visual Studio Community (Windows)

• Download from the official website, during installation select "Desktop development with C++".
• A ready-made environment with a debugger and IntelliSense.

Option 3: GCC (Linux/macOS)

• Linux: sudo apt install g++ (or build-essential).
• macOS: Install Xcode Command Line Tools: xcode-select --install.

Verify the installation with the command:

g++ --version

Step 2: First Program in C++

Create a file hello.cpp and write the classic example:

#include <iostream>

int main() {    std::cout << "Hello, C++ world!" << std::endl;    return 0;}

Compile and run:

g++ hello.cpp -o hello./hello   # or hello.exe on Windows

The screen will display: Hello, C++ world!

Code breakdown:

• #include <iostream> — includes the library for input/output.
• int main() — the main function, execution starts from here.
• std::cout — object for outputting text to the console.
• << std::endl — newline.
• return 0; — signals to the system that the program completed successfully.

Step 3: Basic C++ Syntax for Beginners

Let's look at the basic constructs you will need in 90% of cases.

Variables and Data Types

#include <iostream>#include <string>

int main() {    int age = 25;              // integer number    double price = 99.99;      // floating-point number    char grade = 'A';          // single character    bool is_active = true;     // boolean value    std::string name = "Anna"; //