Introduction

All nontrivial C++ programs must be linked with the standard C++ library, also known as the C++ runtime. This library includes the implementations for components such as I/O streams, STL container classes, the low-level exception handling runtime, and other low-level types and classes.

This document provides background information about the C++ runtime that you may find useful if you are developing C++ programs. It also offers information about Apple’s C++ support and offers tips on how to write more compatible C++ libraries and programs.

Organization of This Document

Information about the C++ runtime environment is provided in the following articles:

• Overview of the C++ Runtime Environment describes the state of the C++ runtime environment, including issues surrounding binary compatibility and general support.

• Deploying Applications With the C++ Runtime provides guidelines for deploying applications using either the static or dynamic C++ standard library.

• Creating Compatible Libraries provides tips on how to make sure your own dynamic shared libraries retain their binary compatibility even when changes occur to the C++ runtime.

• Controlling Symbol Visibility describes new tools and techniques for controlling the symbols exported by your C++ code.