C++ cost nothing. IT is a programming language not a program that you use. So you have to pay jack for it. Programmerheaven.com will help you GREATLY if you want to learn it. C++ is not hard but it is extremly powerful language. A great tip if you want to learn and big come good at it is to SLOW DOWN when you read it. SLOW down when your programming. Always do it when you are not tired. And plan everything out. Save you alot of trouble. Their is a forum on programmersheaven.com so you can get alot of help. Buying a C++ Standard Library Reference book would be great if you like something right next to you. but you can find all the info you need from the internet. As for a compiler you can use DEV C++ for free. Its a great compiler and you can program anything you want using it. Good Luck