QBasic

QBasic is an integrated development environment (IDE) and interpreter for a dialect of BASIC (Beginner's All-purpose Symbolic Instruction Code) programming language. Developed by Microsoft, it was first released in 1991. QBasic was designed to be a simplified and accessible version of QuickBASIC, intended for beginners and novice programmers. It was typically bundled with MS-DOS 5.0 and later versions, as well as Windows 95 and Windows 98, providing an entry-level programming environment for personal computers.

QBasic features a user-friendly interface with a built-in text editor, compiler, and debugger. Its syntax is relatively easy to learn, making it popular for introductory programming courses. The language supports structured programming concepts, including subroutines, functions, and loops. QBasic also provides features for graphics, sound, and file I/O, allowing users to create simple applications and games.

While QBasic is a capable language for learning programming fundamentals and creating small applications, it has limitations. It does not support creating standalone executables without the use of a separate compiler (like QuickBASIC), and its capabilities are limited compared to more modern programming languages. Microsoft no longer actively develops or supports QBasic, however, it remains a popular choice for retro computing enthusiasts and educational purposes due to its simplicity and availability. It played a significant role in introducing many people to the world of programming.