To pass Programming 1 and 2 subjects, you need to have access to an environment to program and model in. This page covers the programming side of the software stack.
Option 1: Virtualized Linux + Geany
This is the recommended setup for you to get maximum out of this course and do it in a safe manner. In this option, you will install a hypervisor to run a virtualized computer in your computer. In the virtual machine, we will install Linux and the necessary tools.
Note: even though the guide is for Windows, you can also use the same software on a Mac
- Guide: How to run Linux on your own computer
- Guide: How to install Geany and a compiler
- Guide: How to configure and use Geany.
Option 2: Remote access using RDP
For those of you who do not feel comfortable on the first day to install the software on your computer, you can also access the lab computers using remote access. For this you need to use a VPN first and once you are the university intranet, you can use RDP protocol to access Linux and Windows computers.
Guide: Remote access using RDP
Option 3: MS Windows + Geany
For those who do not wish to run Linux, it is possible to go through the course using Windows.
Warning: If you are going to be taking Programming 2, some tools will be unavailable for you and some of the labs will be a lot more difficult to set up for.
Option 4: WSL (Windows Subsystem for Linux)
WSL is available for Windows 10 and 11 users and allows you to run a limited version of Linux within the Windows environment – a hybrid of sorts. Resource cost is minimal comparing to running a fully fledged virtual machine. WSL is enough for this subject.
When using WSL, follow the guides in Option 1 for Linux software installation.
Option 5: Pick your own software
There are hundreds of compatible text and code editors available, as well as more than 1 supported compiler. You are free to choose which software you run on your own computer, but then you will also be responsible for them. You will need to configure them on your own and be aware of all the quirks that they may have. Not knowing how the tools that you picked out is not an excuse.
Some ideas for alternatives: https://blue.pri.ee/ttu/resources/links/