A really noobish question regarding writing programs.

[ZFR]

OK, this is really noobish.

I've been using Microsoft's C++ and C# Visual express edition, which can be downloaded from the net for free.

So...
a) Does anyone know whether I can sell any programs that I write using this software? (I would assume, no; but I really can't find the EULA anywhere, even google can't help).
b) Which C++/C# compiler can I use to write programs which I would be legally allowed to sell?

[VulcanRider]

I would think just the opposite. If you write a program that someone else finds useful, you have every right to sell them a copy.

[Trogdor]

As long as you give credit to the program, I can't see an issue with selling you IP.

[Cadfael]

Originally Posted by ZFR OK, this is really noobish. I've been using Microsoft's C++ and C# Visual express edition, which can be downloaded from the net for free. So... a) Does anyone know whether I can sell any programs that I write using this software? (I would assume, no; but I really can't find the EULA anywhere, even google can't help). b) Which C++/C# compiler can I use to write programs which I would be legally allowed to sell?

Sell them with total impunity, the software you mentioned is designed for that very purpose... to allow you code and then if you wish sell on your resulting software.

I am not a programmer, but I do dabble in graphics. I use Adobe Photoshop to create some of my art... I do not need permission from Adobe to distribute that art.. . I own the copyright on what I create.

This should be the case with your situation. Okay, in order to run a program you create may require that your end-user has C++/C# installed... but they can download that themselves... it is not your problem.

[Bungleau]

There should be an EULA or other licensing agreement with c# or C++. You should have had to agree to it when you installed the software, and you should be able to access it from within the compiler or development tools.

Basically, however, you should be able to sell the tools you develop. You may need (or want) to provide them as compiled code instead of source code; that way, it's harder (but not impossible) for someone to get a copy without paying you for it.

[dplax]

Basically it can be yes or no. All depends on the EULA. For example the free, student version of Visual Studio 2008 I have states in the EULA, that it can't be used for commercial purposes.

[Iron Greasel]

I don't know. Keep looking for the EULA, pretty much everything has one.

As for the alternative, a quick google search found MinGW.

[ZFR]

Originally Posted by dplax For example the free, student version of Visual Studio 2008 I have states in the EULA, that it can't be used for commercial purposes.

Yes, exactly. That's what I was thinking. I'm not sure if that's the case with express edition though... I'll keep looking for the eula.

[ZFR]

Ok, I still couldn't find the eula, but on the FAQ on the microsoft page I found this:

6. Can I use Express Editions for commercial use?

Yes, there are no licensing restrictions for applications built using Visual Studio Express Editions.

http://www.microsoft.com/express/support/faq/

I guess that's it then. Thanks all.