C# ranks as the fifth most popular programming language and for good reason.
The object-orientated and type-safe syntax builds on Microsoft’s .NET framework. You can create Windows applications to mobile apps and games. Third-party libraries enable you to produce PDF files or read barcodes with a few lines of code.
This article introduces you to the C# coding language.
Read on to learn about C# tools and the .NET platform. And discover how to code in C# with a Hello World tutorial.
C# Coding Language
C#, pronounced C-Sharp, is the next evolution in the C and C++ languages.
Microsoft released C# in 2002 to simplify modern programming yet retain low-level functionality. It was a viable alternative to Java, an industry leader in enterprise-level coding.
Over the years, Microsoft has refined C# to make it even better.
Implementing third-party libraries removes the hard work of programming complex tasks yourself. Simply install the package, include the library, then call the methods to produce amazing results like QR code creation.
C# Versus C++
C# traces its roots back to C, a powerful language that works on any platform. C++ added elements of object-orientated programming to C to help design larger apps.
These ‘middle programming languages’ work with low-level machine code. Although powerful, they aren’t easy to manage or port to the modern workplace. That’s where C# excels.
Unlike C or C++, C# manages memory pointers on your behalf. C++ relies on functions while C# builds on design.
C# also enhances cloud computing like Azure so you can create apps that run in any environment.
C Sharp Coding Tools
Visual Studio is Microsoft’s IDE of choice to create C# software.
With intelligent code completions and fast refactoring, VS 2022 works perfectly with C# and .NET. You can also share code in real-time and commit to version control systems like Git.
Try the free Visual Studio Community (VSC) software to discover how C# works.
Getting Started with Code in C#
Install VSC then install the latest version of .NET. Create a new project and choose Console App (.NET Core). Give it the name FirstTest and save the project to your computer.
Type the code below and press F5 on your keyboard to run it:
using System;
namespace FirstTest{
class Program {
static void Main(string[] args) {
Console.WriteLine(“Hello World”);
}
}
}
The code will compile and display the words ‘Hello World’ on the screen.
Well done! You have created your first C# program. But what about adding third-party libraries?
Third-Party Libraries in C#
The beauty of C# is its ability to make your programming life easier. For example, C# read barcode from image implementations are a doddle if you use the right library.
Use the NuGet package manager to install the library. Then read the documentation to add it to your own application.
Most libraries follow the pattern:
- Add ‘using’ statement at the top
- Instantiate the object
- Call a method to produce the results
Some of the best tools even combine functionality like reading multiple QR barcodes from a PDF file!
C# Ideas for Development
Code in C# to produce any type of app.
Use third-party tools to reduce the workload yet still be able to target any device. .NET lets you tap into the cloud too.
Read more on our blog about C# ideas and what you could develop.
