C++ has been one of the most popular general-purpose programming languages for over four decades now. Starting in the late 1970s, this is an extension of the C programming language that incorporates object-oriented features, making it suitable for a wide range of programming tasks.
In 2024, for instance, some of the best C++ libraries offer a variety of code packages, supporting everything from linear algebra, number generation, image processing, text processing, and more.
We’re going to walk through a few use cases below, examining three of the most popular practical applications of C++ in 2024, and how developers can still leverage this language to create powerful, efficient software solutions.
Game engines like Unreal Engine leverage C++ for core functionalities, allowing developers to create high-performance games with rich graphics and complex gameplay mechanics. By utilising C++’s ability to directly interact with hardware, it’s possible to achieve smooth rendering, complex physics, and realistic animations that are needed to compete in today’s demanding gaming environments.
As well as this, developers can benefit from the best C++ IDEs such as Visual Studio or CLion, both of which offer powerful debugging, code management, and integration tools that are tailored specifically for gaming development.
C++ is also ideal for systems programming, including the development of operating systems, device drivers, and embedded systems software. For operating systems, specifically, it allows developers to write core components and processes that need to run efficiently.
Indeed, some of the most well-known systems, such as Windows and MacOS, use components written in C++, using it specifically because of its performance benefits and ability to execute at a low level.
Lastly, C++ plays a critical role in financial software, especially in areas like high-frequency trading – the process of executing a large number of orders at extremely high speeds – and financial modelling. When it comes to HFT, every trade is executed in microseconds, which means even a slight delay can hugely impact profitability. C++ allows developers to create optimised code that has the capacity to process vast amounts of market data in real-time, analysing trends and executing trades quickly, without the risk of latency issues causing disruption.
In addition to trading, financial institutions also rely on C++ for risk assessment and portfolio management. In a field like this, so many applications involve complex mathematical computations, which means a programme like C++ is needed to maintain performance and accuracy, while still maintaining speed and efficiency.
These are three practical applications of C++, but there are many more, including scientific computing, telecommunications, cloud computing, or rendering web pages. Across so many industries, C++ stands out for its ability to deliver high performance, memory efficiency, and complete control over hardware, making it a popular choice even decades after its creation.
In many ways, this is not just a foundational language, but a tool in driving forward industries and enabling innovations that continue to shape our technological landscape. As that landscape continues to grow and develop, it’s likely that C++ will remain an essential cog in the system.