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Microsoft C++ Build Tools2025-02-14T15:04:40-08:00

Microsoft C++ Build Tools

Standalone MSVC compiler, libraries, and scripts

Download Build Tools

The Microsoft C++ Build Tools provides MSVC toolsets via a scriptable, standalone installer without Visual Studio. Recommended if you build C++ libraries and applications targeting Windows from the command-line (e.g. as part of your continuous integration workflow). Includes tools shipped in Visual Studio 2015 Update 3, Visual Studio 2017, Visual Studio 2019, and latest version of Visual Studio 2022.

Walkthrough: Compiling a Native C++ Program on the Command Line

How you can use the Build Tools

vcpkg

Open-source C/C++ package manager from Microsoft for all workflows.

GitHub Actions

Build, test, and deploy your code from GitHub.

.NET

Compile C++ code that interops with .NET apps using C++/CLI.

Python

Install non-pure Python packages or compile a Cython or Pyrex file.

Node.js

Use native add-ons in Node.js with node-gyp.

Rust

Build Rust for Windows for use with the MSVC ABI.

screenshot of C++ tools

Develop C++ tools and libraries with Visual Studio

Visual Studio provides a free, fully featured development environment for C++ developers.