# Environment Setup — C Programming Fundamentals: Pointers, Memory and Files

Source: https://www.skillbyai.com/en/c/c-setup

> Install the GCC or Clang compiler on your system and confirm it works with a version check.

## You need a compiler

The two common C compilers are **GCC** and **Clang**. A text editor and a terminal complete the toolkit.

## Install

Pick the line for your OS.

```bash
# Debian / Ubuntu
sudo apt install build-essential

# macOS
xcode-select --install

# Windows: install MSYS2 / MinGW-w64, or use WSL
```

## Verify + warnings

Run `gcc --version` to confirm the install. While learning, always compile with `-Wall -Wextra` to surface mistakes early.