Will following the C++ Core Guidelines rigorously make my C++ code as safe as Rust?

No, even if you follow the C++ Core Guidelines meticulously, it does not guarantee that the code you write will be as safe as Rust. Here are the reasons:

1. Fundamental Design Differences:

   • C++: A very flexible language that allows for fine-grained control over memory, but this control comes with great responsibility. Errors in memory management can lead to serious problems like buffer overflows and memory leaks.

   • Rust: Designed from the ground up to ensure memory safety. It uses a unique ownership system and strict compile-time checks to prevent common memory errors.

2. C++ Core Guidelines Are Recommendations:

   • Although the C++ Core Guidelines provide best practices, they are merely recommendations and not strict rules enforced by the language. Developers can still choose to ignore these recommendations, which could lead to unsafe code.

   • In Rust, memory safety rules are enforced by the compiler. Developers cannot bypass these rules, making it difficult to write unsafe code.

3. Backward Compatibility:

   • C++ has a long history of backward compatibility, meaning that older C++ code may not follow modern best practices. It may be difficult or impossible to apply the C++ Core Guidelines rigorously to older C++ code.

   • Rust is a newer language and does not suffer from the same backward compatibility constraints.

When Are the C++ Core Guidelines Sufficient?

If you are writing new C++ code and are careful to follow best practices, the C++ Core Guidelines can help you write safer code. However, if you are working on a large and complex project or if security is a top priority, Rust may be the better choice.

Conclusion:

The C++ Core Guidelines are a valuable tool for improving the safety of C++ code, but they cannot guarantee the same level of safety that Rust provides. Choosing the right language depends on your project requirements and priorities.