Compare C++/CLI vs. QBasic vs. Visual Basic

In Visual Studio 2022, the standard target framework set for .NET Core projects is version 6.0, while for .NET Framework projects, it defaults to version 4.7.2. You can find the selector for the .NET Framework version on the project configuration page within the new project creation dialog. However, C++/CLI isn't included by default when you install the C++ workload in Visual Studio. If you wish to add this component post-installation, you can do so by launching the Visual Studio Installer through the Windows Start menu and searching for it. Once in the installer, click the modify button next to your current Visual Studio version, head to the Individual components tab, and scroll to the compilers, build tools, and runtimes section to enable C++/CLI support for the v143 build tools (Latest). After making your selection, simply click modify to download the necessary components and update Visual Studio. By utilizing C++/CLI, you can develop C++ applications that leverage both .NET classes and native C++ types, making it a versatile tool for console applications. This integration allows for a seamless blend of managed and unmanaged code, enhancing the functionality of your projects.

Both QBasic and QuickBasic serve as accessible programming languages suitable for novices, originating from the DOS operating system yet also functioning on Windows platforms. QBasic is essentially a streamlined version of QuickBasic, but it comes with notable limitations such as the absence of a compiler, which prevents it from generating executable files (.exe). Users can only run source code files, typically with a .bas extension, through the integrated QBasic interpreter. In contrast, QuickBasic offers a broader range of commands compared to its simpler counterpart. For those embarking on their programming journey, starting with a lightweight language and a straightforward compiler can be especially beneficial. QBasic (often abbreviated as QB) presents distinct advantages for both beginners and experienced developers that are not found in other compilers. During the era when DOS dominated the operating system landscape, the QB IDE was immensely popular among programmers. Nowadays, to run QBasic or QuickBasic on modern Windows systems, a DOS emulator like DOSBox is necessary for compatibility. This requirement serves as a reminder of how far technology has progressed since the days of DOS. Additionally, the simplicity of QBasic allows learners to grasp fundamental programming concepts without feeling overwhelmed.

Visual Basic, an object-oriented programming language created by Microsoft, allows for the rapid and straightforward development of type-safe applications within the .NET framework. It emphasizes enhancing the capabilities of the Visual Basic Runtime (microsoft.visualbasic.dll) for .NET Core, marking the first iteration of Visual Basic that is tailored specifically for this platform. Future updates are anticipated to incorporate elements of the Visual Basic Runtime that rely on WinForms. The .NET framework itself is a versatile and open-source development environment designed for the creation of various types of applications. Regardless of the application type, the code and project files maintain a consistent appearance and functionality. This uniformity ensures that developers can leverage the same runtime, application programming interfaces (APIs), and language features across all their projects. A Visual Basic application is constructed using standard components, where a solution includes one or more projects, and each project can consist of multiple assemblies, which are in turn compiled from several source files. Overall, this structure enables developers to efficiently manage and build complex applications.