9 of the Best Free Linux Integrated Development Environments (IDEs)

An integrated development environment (IDE) (sometimes known as an integrated design environment or integrated debugging environment) is a software application that provides comprehensive facilities to programmers for software development.

Many coders learn to code using a text editor but in time they move towards using an IDE as this type of software application makes the art of coding quicker and more efficient. For example, IDEs have semantic knowledge of the programming language which highlights coding problems while typing. Compiling is 'on the fly' and debugging is integrated.

An IDE normally comprises a:

• Source code editor (essentially a text editor with additional features such as code completion, structural navigation, and syntax highlighting)
• Debugger
• Compiler and/or interpreter
• Build automation tools

A good IDE helps developers produce bug-free, maintainable applications quicker than by using an editor and console based tools. However, selecting an IDE can be a daunting task, in part because there are a large number available for Linux.

To provide an insight into the quality of software that is available, we have compiled a list of 9 highly polished free Linux IDEs. Hopefully, there will be something of interest here for anyone who wants to quicken the pace of software development.

Now, let's explore the 9 IDEs at hand. For each title we have compiled its own portal page, a full description with an in-depth analysis of its features, screenshots, together with links to relevant resources and reviews.

Return to our complete collection of Group Tests, identifying the finest Linux software.

Last Updated Saturday, November 24 2012 @ 04:57 PM EST