How can I compile C files into an executable (.exe) file?

Question

I am unsure about compiling C files into executables by using Cygwin under Windows 7.

Can anyone please tell me how to do this?

I\'ve read some tutorials but

Answer 1

Q: How can i compile c-files into an executable (.exe) file?

A: Get and use a C compiler.

GCC/Cygwin is one possibility. MS Visual Studio is another: you can download the free "MSVS Express" here: http://www.microsoft.com/visualstudio/en-us/products/2010-editions/express.

How you interact with the compiler is another question.

You can certainly use a command line.

You can use a command line with or without "Make": you can let "Makefiles" do the "heavy lifting" for you, you can use .bat files, or you can type everything by hand.

Using a graphical IDE is another possibility. "Eclipse" and "MS Visual Studio" are two popular alternatives for Windows.