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Fil-C is a memory-safe version of C and C++ that maintains high compatibility with existing code. It detects memory safety errors through runtime checks and allows many popular programs to run with little to no changes. The compiler is based on clang and supports modern build systems.
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Fil-C is a memory-safe implementation of C and C++ designed for compatibility with existing software. It aims to eliminate common memory safety errors by using advanced runtime checks, meaning that any unsafe operations are caught immediately, causing a panic in the system. This approach relies on concurrent garbage collection and a unique feature called invisible capabilities (InvisiCaps). The goal is to provide a safer programming environment without introducing escape hatches for unsafe code, ensuring that memory safety is a priority throughout.
Many existing C and C++ programs can be compiled and run on Fil-C with little to no modification. Notable examples of software that works well with Fil-C include CPython, OpenSSH, GNU Emacs, and Wayland. The implementation supports advanced programming features like threads, atomics, exceptions, and different shared memory styles, enabling users to run a fully memory-safe Linux userland, including graphical interfaces.
Fil-C's compiler is based on clang version 20.1.8 and is designed to integrate smoothly with established build systems such as make, autotools, cmake, and meson. The project is open-source, with the compiler licensed under Apache 2.0 and the runtime under BSD 2-clause. It also offers two standard libraries: musl and glibc, each with its own licensing terms. For community engagement, developers and users can join the Fil-C Discord to collaborate and discuss the language's development.
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