C++ GUI Without "Windows Forms" or "Framework" [closed]

Question

I want to create normal program with C++ in Visual Studio 2012 Express.I know there are many programs with GUI(I am not sure it is GUI or not,but I call normal programs with that).I want to create program like that.I tried to do it with VB and their windows forms.But When I gave it to my friend it needs some stupid files like pdb(I am not sure again,but it can't be opened) or it needs .NET framework. In anyway it didn't work.I want to create a program which don't need another file or program to work.

Just I want to make a simple program with Buttons,Labels,TextBoxs and it will not request another files. Just 1 exe.

Answer 1

You have a few options for pure "native code" user interfaces.

The Microsoft Foundation Class (MFC) Library is the main option included with Visual Studio.

Otherwise, you can go to 3rd party options. Qt is a very nice option, if you're willing to install it, and provides a much nicer development model (in my opinion) for rich user interfaces.

That being said - if you already have something working using Windows Forms, having your friend install the .NET Framework is far simpler than rewriting an entire code base just to avoid it. It's very difficult to remove ALL dependencies on libraries - though having a native UI will potentially simplify the deployment.

Answer 2

You should learn how to use the WINAPI