Lack of an Operating System makes a freestanding environment very restricted. When a C++ program executes without the help of an Operating System, it is running under a freestanding environment. Normally, we compile and run C++ code for a platform (or a host) which is known as the hosted environment. In the same way, there are many C++ IDEs, but I discuss that in a different blog post. So naturally, there are a lot of C++ compilers out there. One of the things I love about C++ is the fact it’s such an ‘open’ programming language that allows anyone to implement their own compiler. If you really want the Microsoft Solution, VS is the way to go.It is no secret that I love C++. I personally prefer GCC, but that's just me. Plus, it runs on linux too, so you could make that transition even easier on yourself. However, if you're looking for something a bit more lightweight, CodeBlocks is also rather good, and has the added benefit of being able to use basically any compiler you have installed (including several forms of GCC and the Microsoft Compiler that comes with Visual Studio) and being able to open project files fro other IDEs. Visual Studio is the Microsoft version, and although it has its issues, it is an excellent IDE for working with the code. If you're looking for an IDE, I have two recommendations. That will compile your programs natively for windows, using a standard library, etc. I recommend that you use the MinGW distribution of GCC. Its probably best that you use it until you become more comfortable with something else.

Its a standards compliant c/c++ compiler, and I use it for windows programs on a daily basis. GCC is not technically a linux specific compiler.

Best free c compiler for windows