Visual C++

Microsoft Visual C++ is an MS Windows compiler and IDE for several C/C++ variants, including C, C++ (98 standard), and various forms of "C++.NET". It often comes packaged as part of Microsoft's Visual Studio software bundle, which includes compilers and IDEs for multiple languages, including Microsoft's C#, Java, Visual Basic, and Foxpro. These tools are the de-facto standard for Windows development.

Visual C++, and other visual studio tools, are offered in "express" editions for free from microsoft. These editions have a minimal number of disabled features, and carry no restrictions on how you use them.