From C# to C++

[JoeLinkous]

My original language of choice was C++, but I really started learning once I got into Java then C#. I've started programming a MUD in C#, and I've got most of the framework in place (network support, command processor via Lua, etc). My problem is that my laptop isn't that great; it was the cheapest one from the HP site in 2005. Although I don't have a whole lot installed or running on my computer, it's still running pretty slow, and reformatting doesn't help a lot. The minimalist in me is wanting to switch to a light-weight distro of Linux, but I'm wondering how I'll be able to keep programming my game.

My C++ and Linux skills are sub-par to say the least. The last time I programmed in C++, I did everything using main() and functions; no object-orientedness to be seen. I'm looking forward to learning more about C++ now that I've learned everything I did from Java and C#. Linux seems *way* over my head too, but that's quite another story all together.

This is why I'm posting here. By switching to Linux, I won't have access to C# anymore, so I'll be going back to C++. My question is this: for any programmers out there who have made the switch between operating systems, how smooth was it? Was it as simple as reformatting with a new OS and installing an IDE and that's it? What was your choice of Linux C++ IDEs? Basically, what kinds of things should I know for making such a switch?

[Red Squirrel]

You could look to see if your app will run in mono. Though this is hit or miss. I've been wanting to switch to Linux myself but there is still a lot to consider and setup so I have not yet. Depends what you use your pc for. The less stuff, the easier it will be to switch.

Depending how big your app is, it might be fairly easy to switch it to C++. Also the only "IDE" I personally use in C++ is notepad++. Not sure what Linux has though as far as text editors go but I'm sure there's decent ones. Think kate is a good one though it's been a while.

[laserlight]

My C++ and Linux skills are sub-par to say the least. The last time I programmed in C++, I did everything using main() and functions; no object-orientedness to be seen. I'm looking forward to learning more about C++ now that I've learned everything I did from Java and C#.

Since you have a programming background, I suggest that you read and work through Accelerated C++ by Koenig and Moo.

By switching to Linux, I won't have access to C# anymore, so I'll be going back to C++.

Not to discourage your learning of C++, but I had the impression that C# was available for Linux via the Mono project.

for any programmers out there who have made the switch between operating systems, how smooth was it? Was it as simple as reformatting with a new OS and installing an IDE and that's it?

I dual boot, but still use Windows more. Old habits die hard, especially when you don't have to fully change them.

What was your choice of Linux C++ IDEs?

I use the cross platform Code::Blocks, but the high powered editors emacs and vi (clones) deserve an honourable mention since they each have a strong and fanatical following.

[JoeLinkous]

Thanks for the answers, guys!

laserlight: I didn't know C# was even available outside of the .NET Framework in Windows. That's really good to know.

Red Squirrel: It never crossed my mind to use a text editor and command-line compiler. I guess I've had my head stuck in NetBeans and Visual Studio too long. It'll be strange building code without the pre-compile squiggly lines telling me when I've done something wrong, but it will probably be better for me in the long run.

[_uj]

Thanks for the answers, guys!

Well, the obvious hasn't been stated - use Java.

It's portable between most operating systems and even development systems are portable (for example Eclipse). If you're familiar with C#, it's much easier to get up to speed with Java than it is with C++.