C++ version vs C++ Standard

The terms "C++ versions" and "C++ standards" are often used interchangeably, but they can refer to slightly different concepts in the context of the C++ programming language. Here's a breakdown of the differences:

1. C++ Standards

• Definition: A C++ standard is an official specification that defines the features, syntax, and behavior of the C++ programming language. These standards are developed and maintained by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO).

• Examples of C++ Standards:

  • C++98: The first standardized version of C++, published in 1998.

  • C++03: A technical correction to C++98, with minor updates.

  • C++11: A major update introducing several new features like auto, lambda expressions, and more.

  • C++14: A smaller update refining features introduced in C++11.

  • C++17: Another significant update adding features like std::optional, fold expressions, and more.

  • C++20: A major update introducing concepts, ranges, coroutines, and more.

  • C++23: The most recent standard, further refining the language and adding new features.

• Purpose: Each C++ standard defines the language's features for both compiler developers and programmers. The standard ensures consistency and compatibility across different compilers and platforms.

• Naming: The name of a standard often includes the year it was finalized (e.g., C++11 for the standard finalized in 2011).

2. C++ Versions

• Definition: C++ versions typically refer to the versions of the C++ compiler or toolchain that implement one or more C++ standards. When people talk about C++ versions, they might refer to the specific standard a compiler supports or the version of the compiler itself.

• Examples of Compiler Versions:

  • GCC (GNU Compiler Collection): GCC versions like 7.x, 8.x, 9.x, etc., refer to different releases of the GCC compiler. Each version of GCC supports specific C++ standards (e.g., GCC 7.x supports up to C++17).

  • Clang: Clang versions similarly refer to releases of the Clang compiler.

  • MSVC (Microsoft Visual C++): MSVC versions refer to releases of Microsoft's C++ compiler. For example, MSVC 2019 might support C++17 and C++20 depending on the update.

• Compiler Flags: When compiling code, you often specify which C++ standard you want to use with a flag (e.g., -std=c++17). This tells the compiler to adhere to the rules and features defined in that specific standard.

• Compatibility: Compiler versions are associated with the standards they support. For example, GCC 5.x introduced support for C++14, while GCC 7.x introduced support for C++17.

Summary

• C++ Standards: Refer to the official specifications that define the language's features and behavior. Examples include C++98, C++11, C++14, C++17, C++20, and C++23.

• C++ Versions: Often refer to the versions of compilers that implement these standards. For instance, GCC 9.x is a version of the GCC compiler that supports C++11, C++14, C++17, and possibly C++20 depending on the specific release.

In practical terms, when someone says they're using a certain "version of C++," they typically mean a combination of a specific standard (like C++17) and a compiler version that supports it.

I identified that GCC 11.4.0 fully supports C++17 and includes support for newer standards like C++20 based on the following information:

1. GCC Version and C++ Standards Support:

• GCC 11.x: GCC (GNU Compiler Collection) versions are known for their support of various C++ standards. By the time GCC 11.x was released, it had full support for C++17, which was introduced in earlier versions of GCC (starting with GCC 7.x). Additionally, GCC 11.x also introduced complete support for C++20, as the GCC development team actively implements support for new C++ standards as they are finalized by the ISO.

2. Standard Compliance:

• The C++ standards (like C++17 and C++20) define specific features and improvements to the language. Compiler versions like GCC are regularly updated to incorporate these standards, and by GCC 11.x, all features of C++17 were fully supported. GCC 11.x also supports many features of C++20, with full support for the standard included.

3. Release Notes and Documentation:

• The release notes and documentation for GCC provide details about the standards supported by each version. For example, the GCC 11.x release notes indicate support for C++17 and C++20 standards, reflecting the compiler's capabilities.

Summary:

• GCC 11.4.0 is a specific version within the GCC 11.x series, and based on its release timeframe and the features implemented by the GCC team, it is known to fully support C++17 and include support for C++20. This information is derived from general knowledge of GCC's development history and the features included in major GCC releases.