How to create a C++ Header File for a Static Library?

Using a static library (.lib file) is a great way to reuse code. Rather than re-implementing the same routines in every app that requires the functionality, you write them one time in a static library and then reference it from the apps. Code linked from a static library becomes part of your app, you don’t have to install another file to use the code.

The first step to build a static library is to create a header (.h file) to represent the API of the library as shown in this tutorial:

1. Create the header file, MathFuncsLib.h, with a text editor:

// MathFuncsLib.h

namespace MathFuncs
{
    class MyMathFuncs
    {
    public:
        // Returns a + b
        static double Add(double a, double b);

        // Returns a - b
        static double Subtract(double a, double b);

        // Returns a * b
        static double Multiply(double a, double b);

        // Returns a / b
        static double Divide(double a, double b);
    };
}

2. Save the header file with your library source file. It is needed when you compile your library source code.

3. Send header file to anyone who wants to use your library. They need it to compile their application source code.

⇒ "MathFuncsLib.cpp" - Build Static Library

⇐ "Simple.c" - Compile and Build C Programs

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