Getting Your Computer Set Up C++ / VSCode

Basic Information

  • To write a program, you only need a simple text editor.  There are great text editors available that are free and that make coding easier.  At the end of CSC 1300 and starting in CSC 1310 will be using VS Code as our text editor. 
  • To run a C++ program, you need a C++ compiler.  There are many out there – TDM-GCC, XCode, MinGW, Cygwin, etc.  The compiler you use will be based on your operating system. 
  • There are instructions on this page for getting your computer set up in Windows, Mac, and Linux

Directions for Setting up on Windows

In this step-by-step tutorial, you will learn to install and configure VS Code on your Windows computer to use the MinGW compiler. After configuring VS Code, you will compile a simple C++ program in your Command Prompt.

STEP ONE: Download, Install, & Test MinGW (Windows only)

STEP TWO: Install & Set Up VS Code on Windows

STEP THREE: Disable All GenAI in VS Code

STEP FOUR: VS Code: Write, Compile, & Run C++ Code

STEP FIVE: Take a Look at Some VS Code Features

Directions for Setting up on MacOS

In this step-by-step tutorial, you will learn to install and configure VS Code on your Windows computer to use the MinGW compiler. After configuring VS Code, you will compile a simple C++ program in your Command Prompt.

STEP ONE: Clang Compiler for macOS to Compile C++

STEP TWO: Install & Set Up VS Code for macOS

STEP THREE: Disable All GenAI in VS Code

STEP FOUR: VS Code: Write, Compile, & Run a C++ Program

STEP FIVE: Take a Look at Some VS Code Features

Directions for Setting up on Linux

In this step-by-step tutorial, you will learn to install and configure VS Code on your Windows computer to use the MinGW compiler. After configuring VS Code, you will compile a simple C++ program in your Command Prompt.

STEP ONE: GCC C++ Compiler for Linux

STEP TWO: Install & Set Up VS Code for Linux

STEP THREE: Disable All GenAI in VS Code

STEP FOUR: VS Code: Write, Compile, & Run a C++ Program

STEP FIVE: Take a Look at Some VS Code Features