Quote:
Is it asked to much that I just want to compile my code into a single .exe file that will run on every PC?
Personally, I find that the Eclipse IDE combined with GCC G++ allows me to use C++ Std Library-compliant code on just about any operating system I need. I presently use OSX, WinXP (trying Vista soon) and Linux (32 and 64 bit architectures). Linux 64 bit is my main development platform. IMHO, it is possible to write once and use on multiple platforms in C++, once you get the gist of it. You just have to stick with it and keep grinding. You'll get there.
To me, the biggest problem with C++ is that there are so many different ways to solve a problem, whereas finding the optimal way is an art combined with experience. That's another advantage in learning to use the Std Library early on, it helps you to think about problems in more optimal ways.
--random