   What Programs support C++
  Do I need a certain program to start programming or can I use notepad? (I know, im dumb)   
  You need a C++ compiler, but you can write programs in a normal text editor.  What OS are you on?   ;  You need a compiler, which is a program to convert your written code into an executable program.  Personally I'd recommend DevC++, which is free.  It's an Integrated Development Environment (IDE) which uses the MinGW C++ compiler, so you don't have to use notepad either.http://www.bloodshed.net/dev/devcpp.html   ;Quote:Original post by RoboguyYou need a C++ compiler, but you can write programs in a normal text editor.  What OS are you on?Im using windows xp professional   ;Quote:Original post by r_macdougDo I need a certain program to start programming or can I use notepad? (I know, im dumb)you can use notepad to edit the source, if you enjoy pain :)but you will need a compiler of some sortgenerally an ide/compiler combo is used. i use  dev-cpp, but there are many, including microsofts latest is being offered free for a while. i dont have a link for that, but doubtless someone else will supply it.;  http://msdn.microsoft.com/vstudio/express/visualc/Very good compiler, and extremely good IDE.  Be warned - huges downloads and install time.http://bloodshed.net/dev/devcpp.htmlPretty good compiler (MingW - GCC).  The IDE is somewhat buggy and the whole pack (everything you need) is very easy to install and work with.  Easily extendable and small downloads and install time.http://www.codeblocks.org/Very nice compiler (GCC).  The IDE is pretty good, lot's of outlining.  Easy to set up and extend.  Relatively small download and install.Good luck - I personally prefer the Visual C++ compiler.C++   ;  Dev CPP is really nice. I love it because it is really simple.http://bloodshed.net/dev/devcpp.htmlAlso, you can't go wrong with gcc.The only one that no one has mentioned yet is Borland Builder X. I'm not sure if BuilderX is still around or not, but try checking their website.Another good one to keep an eye on (since I think it is geared more towards linux development) is eclipse. We use the Java compilers where I work, and they are pretty solid.http://www.eclipse.org/tools/Good Luck :)   