# ffreestanding, Qfreestanding

Ensures that compilation takes place in a freestanding environment.

## Syntax

Linux: | -ffreestanding

macOS: | -ffreestanding

Windows: | /Qfreestanding

## Arguments

None

## Default

OFF | Standard libraries are used during compilation.

## Description

This option ensures that compilation takes place in a freestanding environment. The compiler assumes that the standard library may not exist and program startup may not necessarily be at main. This environment meets the definition of a freestanding environment as described in the C and C++ standard.

An example of an application requiring such an environment is an OS kernel.

### Note

When you specify this option, the compiler will not assume the presence of compiler-specific libraries. It will only generate calls that appear in the source code.

## IDE Equivalent

None

## Alternate Options

None

Parent topic: Advanced Optimization Options