What is the best FREE C++ Development Environment for beginners

[itjobsinusa]

Hi

I have basic C++ background. However, I left C++ a while ago in pursuit of web development. Interestingly, I am thinking of updating my skills in C++ development to enable me get back into C++ development.

Therefore, I need your advice in choosing a FREE development environment.
for Windows. Your help and recommendations is highly appreciated.

Are there free good C++ Dev Environment out there? I used Boland v5.2 couple of years ago. (That was in School)

Thanks.

[Thumper]

Microsoft Visual C++ Express 2008 is free. It's the same deal as Visual Studio (the ridiculously expensive IDE), except it only supports C++, which should be perfect for you.

http://www.microsoft.com/express/Downloads/#2008-Visual-CPP

They've also got the newer 2010 version, which i haven't tried yet.

EDIT: Assuming you're on windows. If not, look up G++

[Albatross]

http://www.cplusplus.com/forum/articles/7263/

Hehehe.

-Albatross

NOTE: Out of that bunch, I recommend NetBeans.

[itjobsinusa]

Thumper and Albatross Thanks you both for your prompt response.