Install Code::Blocks on Windows | Hostvento Knowledge Base

What Code::Blocks is

Code::Blocks is a free, open-source IDE (development environment) for C, C++ and Fortran. It runs on Windows, Linux and macOS.

Step 1: Download the installer

Open the official Code::Blocks website, go to Downloads and choose Download the binary release. For Windows pick the file with the name that contains mingw (for example codeblocks-20.03mingw-setup.exe). It includes the GCC compiler.

Step 2: Run the installer

Open the downloaded file and click Next.

Step 3: Choose the installation options

Accept the license and choose the components. The default (Full) is a good choice.

Choosing the installation location and options

Step 4: Install the compiler and plugins

Keep the plugins ticked. Make sure the MinGW compiler is part of the install.

Step 5: Complete the installation

Click Install and wait. Finish the wizard and start Code::Blocks.

Step 6: First start

On the first start, Code::Blocks looks for compilers. Choose GNU GCC Compiler and click Set as default. You can start a new project with File, then New, then Project.

A first program

Create a Console application with C++ and use this code:

#include <iostream>
int main() {
    std::cout << "Hello, world!" << std::endl;
    return 0;
}

Press F9 to build and run.

Features

Project management with many files and targets.
Syntax highlighting and code completion.
Debugging and testing with a built-in debugger.
Plugins to extend the IDE.
Better productivity with templates and shortcuts.

Troubleshooting

If it says "compiler not found", download the installer with MinGW, or set the compiler path under Settings, Compiler.
Run the installer as administrator if it fails.
Use a path without spaces for your projects.

Quick recap

Download the setup with mingw in its name.
Set GNU GCC as the default compiler.
Press F9 to build and run.