Microsoft Aims to Eliminate C++ Codebase by 2030,Leveraging AI and Rust
Microsoft is embarking on a massive undertaking to replace code writen in C and C++ with the more modern rust programming language,a move driven by security concerns and the potential of artificial intelligence. The ambitious plan, initially revealed on a LinkedIn post by a distinguished engineer at the company, aims to overhaul a notable portion of MicrosoftS existing infrastructure.
A senior official at microsoft stated, “My goal is to eliminate every line of C and C++ from Microsoft by 2030.” While the initial announcement sparked debate, the company clarified that the core Windows operating system is not promptly targeted for a full rewrite using AI. However, the long-term vision remains focused on phasing out the older languages.
The strategy centers around utilizing AI agents and algorithms to automate the code rework. These agents are designed to continuously analyze and modify existing code, with human oversight to ensure accuracy and quality. Microsoft has already established the necessary infrastructure and is actively recruiting personnel to support this large-scale effort. The goal is to enable a single developer, aided by automation, to process one million lines of code per month.
Microsoft’s extensive history – spanning over 50 years – means many of its products rely on decades-old code. Modernization, thus, is not merely about adopting new technologies but also about addressing potential vulnerabilities and improving overall system stability. While C and Rust share some syntactic similarities, Rust is engineered for enhanced security and agility.
The company has already begun integrating Rust into its ecosystem.Approximately two and a half years ago, Microsoft started rewriting portions of the windows core in Rust, a decision underscored by David Weston, Vice President of Enterprise and Operating Systems Security, who stated in April 2023 that the company would rewrite core Windows technologies in Rust “where it makes sense.”
Despite the scale of the project – estimated to involve a staggering one billion lines of code – the initial focus will not be on a complete AI-driven overhaul of the Windows kernel. According to the company, a gradual, manual transcription process remains a possibility for certain components. Estimates from 2015 suggest Windows alone comprises at least 55 million lines of code, highlighting the sheer magnitude of the task.
The initial dialog regarding the project’s scope caused some confusion, especially concerning the inclusion of Windows components. However, the company maintains that the long-term objective encompasses a broad transition away from C and C++ across its entire product line.The ambitious nature of the project, coupled with the phrasing used in the original job posting, initially led to perceptions that it was a more immediate and comprehensive undertaking than initially intended.
This initiative represents a significant investment in the future of microsoft’s software progress, prioritizing security and efficiency through the adoption of modern programming languages and the power of artificial intelligence.
Here’s a breakdown answering the “Why, Who, What, and How” questions:
* Why: Microsoft is undertaking this project to improve the security and efficiency of its software.C and C++ are older languages prone to vulnerabilities, while Rust is designed with security as a core principle.
* Who: The initiative is being led by a senior official at Microsoft who has publicly stated the goal of eliminating C and C++ by 2030. David Weston, VP of Enterprise and Operating Systems Security, is also a key figure. The effort involves engineers, AI specialists, and recruiters.
* What: Microsoft is replacing its existing codebase, currently largely written in C and C++, with the Rust programming language. This is a massive undertaking estimated to involve
