How to Compile and Run C program in Terminal

Last Updated : 5 Dec, 2025

Compiling and running C programs on Windows requires a proper C compiler and access to the system terminal. With MinGW (a Windows-friendly version of the GCC compiler), users can easily convert their C source code into executable files using the Command Prompt. This article will guide you through installing MinGW, configuring the environment, and compiling C programs directly from the terminal.

Key Highlights:

  • Learn how to install and set up MinGW (GCC) on Windows
  • Understand how to configure environment variables
  • Use Command Prompt (CMD) to compile .c files into executables
  • Run C programs without needing any GUI-based IDE

How to Compile and Run C Program in Terminal

To compile and run C programs on Windows, you need a compiler and a terminal. MinGW (Minimalist GNU for Windows) provides an easy-to-install GCC compiler that works perfectly with Command Prompt (CMD). Once set up, you can compile any .c file into an executable using simple commands.

Below is a step-by-step guide to install MinGW, configure system paths, and compile/run C programs effortlessly.

Step 1: Install MinGW (GCC Compiler)

Before running C programs, install a compiler that converts C source code into machine code.

  • Visit the official MinGW download page.
  • Download the installer and run it..
Install_mingw

In MinGW Installation Manager, select the following packages:

  • mingw32-base
  • mingw-gcc-g++
Installtion02_MinGW
  • Go to Installation → Apply Changes.
  • Wait for MinGW to install all required components.
Installation_MinGW

Step 2: Add MinGW to the System PATH

Adding MinGW to the PATH allows you to use gcc from any folder in CMD.

  • Press Windows Key → search Environment Variables.
System_Environment
  • Open Edit the system environment variables.
  • Click Environment Variables.
  • Under System variables, select Path → click Edit.
  • Click New → add:
    • Click OK three times to save and exit.
Path-(1)

Step 3: Open Command Prompt

  • Press Windows Key, search cmd.
  • Right-click → Run as Administrator.
cmd_1
  • Type:
  • gcc --version

If MinGW is installed correctly, the GCC version will appear.

gcc_version

Step 4: Navigate to Your C Program Directory

Use the cd command to go to the folder containing your .c file

  • Type "cd C:\MyPrograms" , Click Enter button.
cd_program

Step 5: Compile the C Program Using GCC

Use this syntax to compile your program:

gcc filename.c -o filename.exe

Explanation:

  • filename.c → your C source file
  • -o filename.exe → creates an executable output file

Example:

gcc hello.c -o hello.exe

Step 6: Run the C program and see the output

Finally, run your program with:

  • filename.exe

Example: hello.exe

Your C program output will now appear in the terminal.

exe
C 
#include <stdio.h>
 
int main()
{
    int n = 153;
    int temp = n;
    int p = 0;
 
    while (n > 0) {
        int rem = n % 10;
        p = (p) + (rem * rem * rem);
        n = n / 10;
    }
 
    // Condition to check whether the
    // value of P equals to user input
    // or not.
    if (temp == p) {
        printf("It is Armstrong No.");
    }
    else {
        printf("It is not an Armstrong No.");
    }
    return 0;
}

Output
It is Armstrong No.

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