How to install Microsoft Visual C++ Build Tools, the fast way

How to Install Microsoft Visual Studio C++ Build Tools via Command Line

Introduction to the Installation Process

• The speaker introduces a simpler method for installing Microsoft Visual Studio C++ build tools using a command line instead of a graphical interface.

• This approach is faster, more convenient, and easier to share or automate through scripting.

Scenario for Using Build Tools

• The example provided involves compiling a Python program that uses a module written in Cython, which requires build tools on Windows.

• Without the build tools installed, attempting to run the setup will result in an error message directing users to obtain the necessary components.

Command Line Installation Steps

• The installation requires having the Microsoft Winget package manager installed, which comes by default with Windows 11.

• A specific command is used to install Visual Studio 2022 build tools; this version is essential for current Python versions.

Key Command Options Explained

• The --force switch minimizes user interaction during installation, while --override changes arguments passed to the installer.

• The --wait option ensures that the command waits until all processes are complete before returning control to the user.

• The --passive switch allows installation without user input, making it suitable for automation scripts.

Additional Components and Resources

• The --add switch enables adding necessary components automatically; this includes workloads like Windows SDK required for proper compilation.

• Microsoft provides documentation on various components available for automatic installation through Winget.

Conclusion of Installation Process

• After running the command successfully, restarting Visual Studio Code confirms that there are no issues with missing compilers or setup errors.