Some platforms, such as Linux or macOS, have a C++ compiler already installed. Check with your instructors or colleagues for guidance on installing the recommended C++ toolset (compiler, debugger, project system, linter). There may already be a C++ compiler and debugger provided by your academic or work development environment. You will need to install these tools or use those already installed on your computer. The C/C++ extension does not include a C++ compiler or debugger. VS Code is first and foremost an editor, and relies on command-line tools to do much of the development workflow. Select the Extensions view icon on the Activity bar or use the keyboard shortcut ( ⇧⌘X (Windows, Linux Ctrl+Shift+X)).Īfter you install the extension, when you open or create a *.cpp file, you will have syntax highlighting (colorization), smart completions and hovers (IntelliSense), and error checking.Ĭ++ is a compiled language meaning your program's source code must be translated (compiled) before it can be run on your computer.Configure IntelliSense for cross-compilingĬ/C++ support for Visual Studio Code is provided by a Microsoft C/C++ extension to enable cross-platform C and C++ development on Windows, Linux, and macOS.

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