The C++ programming language was the brainchild of Bjarne Stroustrup in 1983 who worked for Bell Labs.  Originally developed as C, the C++ language is an amendment.  Known as an object-oriented type of language, it was found that programmers could improve quality code, while finding it easier to reuse existing code using C++.

Initially, the B programming language was developed in 1970 by Ken Thompson specifically to work with UNIX OS.  From there, C was created, which is highly portable and because it has no direct link to any specific operating system or hardware, it is far more versatile.  Using high level languages and functionality, C offers programmers a perfect balance of what is needed to develop applications.

Often referred to as, “assembler with objects”, C++ is a widely used option that uses the basics of C, along with object orientation, making it the number one programming language for Windows GUI.  The advantage of portability is a huge plus, with compilers being available for the majority of platforms.  However, most developers move to C++ for class libraries.

This programming language is very powerful and popular but there is one downfall, it is large and complex, making it a difficult language to learn.  Some of the areas in which C++ features work include:

• Schema
• Good for
• Program model
• Module functions
• Files used/made
• Naming style
• Private functions
• Development cycle
• Limits

Just as with other types of programming language, C++ comes out with additions and new versions.  For instance, one of the newest additions is with templates, which offer what is being called “generic programming”.  With this, the way in which development and algorithms are delivered is different, not connected to anything specific.  As with anything new, there are some definite pros and cons to consider.

The good news is that C++ templates are made so they can be used in a variety of fields and reasons.  Included is a large library of algorithms and containers, which are found in the Standard Template Library or STL.  With this, templates are used to create and use efficient code, which is both reusable and extendable.  While this is certainly a good thing, the C++ templates also have a few negative aspects.

For one, C++ is not designed with a binary run-time extension.  Because of this, templates cannot be linked or even distributed as a library.  Instead, the templates have to be created with compile time, after which algorithms are implemented and created in the header files.  Additionally, since C++ templates are new, they are not compatible with all compilers.

Another potential challenge to using the new C++ templates is that while there are many advanced features, to include specialization order and partial, they do not always look uniform when it comes to different implementations using C++ standard.  Of course, one of the biggest and favorite benefits is that using templates saves a tremendous amount of time and effort. In fact, for people who are still learning all the ins and outs of C++, templates make the programming process easier.

Interestingly, using the model of C++, Java was created, which many programmers have found to be a cleaner and safer solution.  However, for large corporations that have robust applications, C++ is often the better choice in that it has much more capability.  Every developer has his or her preference but so do companies.  Therefore, even if a developer feels PHP or Java would be the better solution, the company owner may want to stick with C++.

The goal regardless is to have the ability to develop a powerful tool, one that will make it easier for employees to do their work or to meet high demands of customers.  Today, most companies have a programmer of some level.  Since computer technology is the present and future, it is important that the right program be used.  While it takes time to learn C++, the results are well worth the investment.

For individuals interested in learning C++, there are some incredible courses available that will start with the basics and walk people through each stage of the process.  Even for people who have been using C++ for some time could benefit by taking classes to learn some of the new features and additions being added to the market.

C++ is always evolving, becoming more robust and fine tuned to meet the increasing demands of companies.  After all, for businesses to be competitive, they have to have the best operating systems possible.  This provides the platform for employees so they can get the work done to provide every customer with the best product and/or service.  It all starts with a solid computer foundation and for many people, using C++.