How to Install C in Windows 11: Step-by-Step Guide for Beginners

Learning C programming is one of the best ways to start your journey into coding. But before you can write and run C programs on Windows 11, you need to set up the right tools. If you’re new, don’t worry—this guide will walk you through everything step by step.

By the end, you’ll have a working C compiler on your Windows 11 PC and will be ready to write your first “Hello World” program.

Table of Contents

Why Do You Need to Install C on Windows 11?

Windows doesn’t come with a built-in C compiler. To write and execute C programs, you’ll need:

A compiler (to translate your C code into machine code).
An IDE (Integrated Development Environment) or text editor (to write your code easily).

Think of the compiler as a chef who cooks your recipe (the C code), while the IDE is like your kitchen where you prepare it.

Step 1: Choose a C Compiler for Windows 11

The most popular C compilers for Windows are:

MinGW (Minimalist GNU for Windows) → Lightweight and widely used.
TDM-GCC → A variation of GCC (GNU Compiler Collection).
Microsoft Visual Studio → Full IDE with C/C++ support.
Code::Blocks → Beginner-friendly IDE with built-in compiler.

👉 For beginners, Code::Blocks with MinGW is the easiest choice.

Step 2: Download Code::Blocks with MinGW

Open your browser and go to the official site: Code::Blocks Downloads.
Under Download the binary release, choose:

codeblocks-20.03mingw-setup.exe
This version includes both Code::Blocks IDE and MinGW compiler, so you don’t need to install them separately.

Step 3: Install Code::Blocks

Run the downloaded installer file.
Click Next to go through the setup wizard.
Select Full installation to install everything you need.
Choose the default location (recommended).
Wait for the installation to finish.

Now, you’ve got your C environment ready.

Step 4: Configure the Compiler (If Needed)

In most cases, Code::Blocks automatically detects the MinGW compiler. But if it doesn’t:

Open Code::Blocks.
Go to Settings → Compiler.
Make sure the selected compiler is GNU GCC Compiler.
If not, browse and set the path manually (usually C:\Program Files\CodeBlocks\MinGW).

Step 5: Write Your First C Program

Open Code::Blocks.
Click File → New → Project.
Choose Console Application → C → Next.
Give your project a name (e.g., HelloWorld).
Select a folder where you want to save it.
Code::Blocks will generate a default main.c file.

Replace the code with:

Step 6: Compile and Run the Program

Click the Build and Run button (the green triangle with a gear).
The program will compile and a console window will appear showing:

🎉 Congratulations! You’ve successfully installed C and run your first program.

Alternative Method: Install C Using Visual Studio

If you prefer Microsoft’s official tools:

Download Visual Studio Community from Microsoft’s website.
During installation, select the Desktop development with C++ workload.
This includes compilers for both C and C++.
Open Visual Studio, create a new Console App (C++), and write your C code (C works inside C++ projects).

This method is heavier but better if you plan to work on large projects.

Alternative Method: Use GCC via WSL (Windows Subsystem for Linux)

For those who like Linux tools:

Enable WSL from Windows features.
Install Ubuntu from the Microsoft Store.
Open Ubuntu and run:

sudo apt update sudo apt install build-essential
Now you can compile C programs using gcc filename.c -o output.

This method is best for developers who want a Linux-like environment on Windows.

Troubleshooting Tips

Compiler not detected? Reinstall Code::Blocks with MinGW.
Program not running? Make sure you clicked Build and Run, not just Build.
Error messages? Double-check your syntax (C is case-sensitive).

Benefits of Installing C on Windows 11

You get a flexible environment for learning programming.
It’s compatible with most modern IDEs and compilers.
Easy to set up for beginners and advanced developers alike.

Conclusion

Installing C on Windows 11 is easier than it looks. For beginners, the Code::Blocks with MinGW setup is the smoothest option. Once installed, you’ll be able to write, compile, and run C programs with ease.

If you’re looking for professional development, Visual Studio or WSL with GCC are excellent alternatives.

No matter which method you choose, the key is to start coding and practicing daily. That’s how you’ll truly master C.

FAQs

1. Which is the best compiler for C on Windows 11?
MinGW with Code::Blocks is best for beginners, while Visual Studio is best for advanced users.

2. Do I need to install C separately if I have Visual Studio?
No, Visual Studio includes the C/C++ compiler when you select the right workload.

3. Can I run C programs in CMD without an IDE?
Yes, after installing GCC (MinGW), you can compile programs using:

and then run program.exe.

4. Is C programming free to install on Windows 11?
Yes, all major compilers like GCC, MinGW, and Visual Studio Community are free.

5. Which method is easiest for beginners?
Using Code::Blocks with MinGW is the easiest and most beginner-friendly option.