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C++ vs Processing: What are the differences?
Introduction
In this Markdown code, we will discuss the key differences between C++ and Processing. Both programming languages have their own unique features and purposes. By understanding their differences, developers can choose the appropriate language based on their specific requirements.
Syntax and Structure: The syntax and structure of C++ and Processing differ significantly. C++ follows a more traditional syntax with strict rules and a wide range of language features, making it suitable for complex applications and high-performance computing. On the other hand, Processing uses a simplified syntax that is beginner-friendly and focuses on multimedia and visual arts projects.
Development Environment: C++ can be developed using a variety of integrated development environments (IDEs) such as Visual Studio, Eclipse, and Code::Blocks. These IDEs provide advanced features like debugging, code analysis, and project management tools. In contrast, Processing provides its own integrated development environment, Processing IDE, which is tailored specifically for creative coding and simplifies the development process.
Libraries and Functions: C++ has a vast collection of libraries and functions available, covering a wide range of domains such as networking, graphics, and scientific computing. This allows developers to leverage existing libraries and build complex applications efficiently. On the other hand, Processing provides a simplified set of libraries and functions focused on multimedia and visual arts. It includes built-in functions for drawing shapes, images, and animations, enabling easy creation of interactive visual experiences.
Performance: C++ is known for its high-performance capabilities due to its low-level programming features and direct hardware access. It allows developers to optimize their code for speed and memory usage, making it suitable for resource-intensive applications. In contrast, Processing prioritizes ease of use and simplicity over performance. While it can handle multimedia and visual arts projects effectively, it may not be ideal for computationally demanding applications.
Learning Curve: C++ has a steeper learning curve compared to Processing. Its complex syntax, memory management, and extensive language features require a deeper understanding of programming concepts. This can be a challenge, especially for beginners. On the other hand, Processing's simplified syntax and beginner-friendly environment make it easier to learn and grasp the basics of programming.
Application Domains: C++ is widely used in various domains such as game development, system programming, and scientific simulations. Its flexibility, performance, and extensive libraries make it suitable for diverse applications. In contrast, Processing is primarily used in the creative coding field, including visual arts, interactive installations, and multimedia experiences. Its focus on simplicity and visual output makes it popular among artists and designers.
In summary, C++ and Processing differ in terms of syntax, development environment, libraries, performance, learning curve, and application domains. C++ provides more flexibility, performance, and a wide range of libraries, while Processing focuses on simplicity, multimedia, and visual arts projects. The choice between the two depends on the specific requirements and goals of the project.
As a personal research project I wanted to add post-quantum crypto KEM (key encapsulation) algorithms and new symmetric crypto session algorithms to openssh. I found the openssh code and its channel/context management extremely complex.
Concurrently, I was learning Go. It occurred to me that Go's excellent standard library, including crypto libraries, plus its much safer memory model and string/buffer handling would be better suited to a secure remote shell solution. So I started from scratch, writing a clean-room Go-based solution, without regard for ssh compatibility. Interactive and token-based login, secure copy and tunnels.
Of course, it needs a proper security audit for side channel attacks, protocol vulnerabilities and so on -- but I was impressed by how much simpler a client-server application with crypto and complex terminal handling was in Go.
$ sloc openssh-portable
Languages Files Code Comment Blank Total CodeLns
Total 502 112982 14327 15705 143014 100.0%
C 389 105938 13349 14416 133703 93.5%
Shell 92 6118 937 1129 8184 5.7%
Make 16 468 37 131 636 0.4%
AWK 1 363 0 7 370 0.3%
C++ 3 79 4 18 101 0.1%
Conf 1 16 0 4 20 0.0%
$ sloc xs
Languages Files Code Comment Blank Total CodeLns
Total 34 3658 1231 655 5544 100.0%
Go 19 3230 1199 507 4936 89.0%
Markdown 2 181 0 76 257 4.6%
Make 7 148 4 50 202 3.6%
YAML 1 39 0 5 44 0.8%
Text 1 30 0 7 37 0.7%
Modula 1 16 0 2 18 0.3%
Shell 3 14 28 8 50 0.9%
Pros of C++
- Performance202
- Control over memory allocation107
- Cross-platform98
- Fast97
- Object oriented84
- Industry standard58
- Smart pointers47
- Templates37
- Gui toolkits16
- Raii16
- Generic programming13
- Control13
- Flexibility13
- Metaprogramming11
- Hardcore9
- Many large libraries5
- Simple5
- Full-fledged containers/collections API5
- Large number of Libraries4
- Performant multi-paradigm language4
- Way too complicated3
- Close to Reality1
- Plenty of useful features1
Pros of Processing
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Cons of C++
- Slow compilation8
- Unsafe8
- Over-complicated6
- Fragile ABI6
- No standard/mainstream dependency management5
- Templates mess with compilation units4
- Too low level for most tasks3
- Compile time features are a mess1
- Template metaprogramming is insane1
- Segfaults1
- Unreal engine1
Cons of Processing
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What is C++?
What is Processing?
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