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How will AI-enabled C++ development change? A thorough analysis of Parasoft C/C++test!

How will AI-enabled C++ development change? A thorough analysis of Parasoft C/C++test!

"The road to becoming an AI creator | Article introduction" Dramatic changes in C++ development!? Early detection of bugs and quality improvement with Parasoft C/C++test's AI static analysis! Beginners can feel at ease with this explanation. #C++ #Static analysis #AI

Video explanation

Will AI dramatically change C++ development? A super easy-to-understand explanation of Parasoft C/C++test's "static analysis" for beginners!

Hello, I'm John, a veteran blog writer! You've probably heard the word "AI" a lot recently. In fact, AI is increasingly being used in the development of the software we use every day. In particular, the power of AI is a great help in development using the complex and bug-unacceptable C and C++ languages ​​(also called C++ for short).

Today, I would like to talk about the AI ​​technology that is attracting attention in the world of C/C++ development,Parasoft C/C++test" and its core technology "Static analysis" will be explained in an easy-to-understand way so that even those who are new to programming can say "I see!" If you learn this, you may be able to see a little bit of what goes on behind the scenes of how software is made to be safe and of high quality!


Eye-catching visual of Parasoft C/C++test, C++, static analysis and AI technology vibes

Basic Information: What exactly is Parasoft C/C++test?

First, let’s start by looking at the basics of what Parasoft C/C++test is.

  • Easy Overview:
    In a nutshell, Parasoft C/C++test isA smart assistant that automatically checks the quality and security of software written in C and C++It is like a software engineer analyzing the program code (called source code) written by the developer from various angles to check for bugs (defects) and security weaknesses (vulnerabilities).
  • The Problem It Solves:
    In software development, since code is written by humans, mistakes and oversights are inevitable. In particular, languages ​​like C/C++ offer a high degree of freedom, but even a small mistake can lead to big problems. Parasoft C/C++test helps you solve the following problems:

    • Early detection of bugs: If a bug is found after a program is completed, it takes time and money to fix it. By using this tool, you can find bugs in the early stages of development.
    • Improved code quality: Helps you write code that is easy to read and maintain (easy to modify later).
    • Ensuring security: Checks for security holes that hackers may exploit and helps create secure software.
    • Compliance with coding standards: In a large development team, it is important that everyone writes code according to the same rules. This "coding standard" (like a rulebook) is checked to make sure that everyone is following it.
    • Reduce the risk of real-world failures and non-compliance.
  • Unique Features:
    Parasoft C/C++test has several features that set it apart from other tools:

    • Equipped with AI assistantThe latest version of Parasoft C/C++test 2025.1 now includes an AI assistant, making it easier to learn how to use the tool and quickly find the information you need in the manual. This is expected to reduce the training time for new developers.
    • Improving productivity with AI: The "GenAI Agent" feature works with the popular development editor Visual Studio Code to provide AI-driven suggestions for fixing issues found during static analysis, helping developers fix problems faster and more accurately.
    • Extensive static analysis rules: Approximately 70 new static analysis rules (check items) have been added that correspond to the Common Weakness Enumeration (CWE), a list that classifies software vulnerabilities. This allows you to discover even more potential problems.
    • Adherence to strict coding standards: It fully supports coding standards such as "MISRA C", which is particularly important in the automotive industry, and "CERT C" for enhanced security. It also fully supports the latest MISRA C:2025.
    • Dynamic testing capabilitiesIn addition to static analysis, it also has a "dynamic testing" function that actually runs the program for testing, allowing for comprehensive testing.
    • Rule duplication suppression: When switching between multiple coding standards, the same issues may be reported under different rule IDs. This tool makes your work easier by automatically suppressing violations that are essentially the same.

Versions and licenses: how do I get them?

Parasoft C/C++test is a highly functional specialized tool, so unfortunately, not everyone can use it for free. It is not like virtual currency, which has a "supply" and whose price fluctuates; it is "commercial software" that requires a license (right to use) purchased from the developer, Parasoft.

  • version: New versions are released regularly, and the one featured in this article is the latest version, "Parasoft C/C++test 2025.1." New versions include new features and improved performance.
  • License form: Generally, various license types are available depending on the number of users and the scope of functions. You can choose according to the size of your company and the needs of your projects.
  • Price: The specific price will vary depending on the type and number of licenses required, so you will need to contact Parasoft or a distributor. It may be expensive for an individual to purchase casually, but for a company, it is a well-worth investment considering the benefits of improved development efficiency and improved product quality and safety.
  • Evaluation version: In some cases, an evaluation version is provided to allow you to try out the features before fully implementing the software. If you are interested, we recommend checking it out on the Parasoft official website.

The "value" created by this tool lies in reducing development costs through early detection of bugs, reducing the risk of product recalls, and above all, in delivering safe and reliable software to end users.

Technical Mechanism: The Power of AI and Static Analysis

Now, let's take a closer look at the "technical mechanism" of how Parasoft C/C++test intelligently checks code. The most important aspects are "static analysis" and the "AI technology" that supports it.

What is static analysis? A health check for your code!

Static Analysis What is a program?Without executingIt is a technology that analyzes the source code (program blueprints written by humans) to find potential bugs, security issues, violations of coding standards, etc. It is similar to humans taking X-rays and blood tests during a health checkup. It finds signs of problems before they actually cause illness.

The benefits of static analysis are many:

  • Early detection and early correction: Problems are found early in development, making them less costly to fix.
  • Comprehensive checks: The tool can mechanically check for small mistakes that the human eye might easily miss.
  • Efficiency through automation: It reduces the burden on developers by allowing large amounts of code to be analyzed in a short time.
  • Preventing personalization: You can maintain a certain level of quality without relying on the experience or intuition of veteran developers.

Parasoft C/C++test is a tool that can perform this static analysis at an extremely advanced level.

AI in Parasoft C/C++test

Recently, Parasoft C/C++test has used artificial intelligence (AI) to make static analysis even more powerful and easier to use, including the following aspects:

  • AI Assistant:
    The new AI assistant will answer questions about how to use the tool and help you find the information you need in the extensive documentation, just like having an experienced developer sitting next to you to teach you. This helps developers become proficient with the tool faster and significantly lowers the learning barrier for new users.
  • Correction suggestions by GenAI Agent (GenAI Agent):
    If static analysis finds an issue, AI will suggest specific code fixes for how to fix the issue. This works in conjunction with the popular code editor Visual Studio Code, and developers can choose their preferred LLM (large-scale language model: an AI that can generate and understand natural-sounding sentences like humans) provider, such as OpenAI or Azure OpenAI. This significantly reduces the time required for correction work and promises higher quality corrections.
  • AI-assisted Rule Understanding and Productivity:
    Static analysis has many "rules" (checks), but an AI assistant can help developers understand what these rules mean and why they are important, so they can more knowledgeably work on improving their code rather than just following the recommendations.

Special Technology: The ability to support safe and secure software development

In addition to AI, Parasoft C/C++test has a number of other specialized technologies to improve software quality and security.

  • Strong support for CWE (Common Weakness Enumeration):
    CWE is a list of types of software security weaknesses (vulnerabilities). Examples include memory corruption (when a program rewrites an unexpected memory area) and inadequate input validation (when invalid input from the user cannot be checked). Parasoft C/C++test detects code that may fall under these CWEs and prevents the creation of particularly serious vulnerabilities. The latest version adds approximately 70 new CWE-related rules, significantly improving security testing capabilities. This also leads to compliance with security standards such as ISO 21434 (international standard for automotive cybersecurity) and IEC 62304 (standard for the life cycle process of medical device software).
  • Assistance with compliance with coding standards such as MISRA C/C++ and CERT C/C++:
    These are collections of coding rules for developing safe and reliable software in specific industries (especially automotive and embedded systems).

    • MISRA C/C++: A coding guideline for the C/C++ language established by the Automotive Software Reliability Association (MISRA), which is widely adopted in areas where functional safety (the property of maintaining safety even if the system fails) is required. Parasoft C/C++test is fully compatible with the latest "MISRA C:2025" and has also updated rules for "MISRA C:2023."
    • CERT C/C++: A set of guidelines published by the CERT Coordination Center at Carnegie Mellon University in the United States for writing secure code by avoiding coding practices in the C/C++ languages ​​that are prone to causing security problems.

    Parasoft C/C++test automatically checks and reports on compliance with these standards.

  • Rule duplication suppression function:
    Depending on the development project, multiple coding standards may be used in combination, or developers may be migrating from an old standard to a new standard. In such cases, if rules that point out similar issues have different IDs in each standard, issues that you have already determined to be "not a problem" and hidden may reappear with a different ID. The latest Parasoft C/C++test adds a new function that automatically suppresses violations of such substantially equivalent rules, reducing the amount of work required by developers.
  • Broad Compiler Support:
    The software that converts C/C++ programs into a form that a computer can execute is called a "compiler." There are many different types of compilers available, but Parasoft C/C++test supports new versions of many major compilers, including ARM Compiler, Clang C/C++ Compiler, GNU GCC, Hexagon Clang Compiler, and Intel Classic C/C++ Compiler, making it compatible with a variety of development environments.


Parasoft C/C++test, C++, static analysis AI technology illustration

Team and community: trustworthy and active?

When introducing new technology or tools, it is important to consider whether the provider is trustworthy and whether there is an active user community.

  • Credibility:
    Founded in 1987, Parasoft is a company with a long history of experience in the field of software test automation solutions. The company's products are used by many companies around the world (especially in industries such as automobiles, aerospace, and medical devices, where strict quality and safety are required). Regular product updates and rapid responses to industry standards are testament to the company's technical capabilities and high reliability.
  • Activity Level:
    Parasoft is actively engaged in product development and information dissemination.

    • Regular product releases: Product enhancements and improvements are being made continuously, such as "C/C++test 2025.1" introduced this time.
    • Official ForumThe Parasoft website has a user forum where users can share information with each other and get support from Parasoft engineers. There are often lively discussions and they are very helpful when you need help.
    • Exposure in industry news: Technology news sites such as PRNewswire, Infoworld, and SD Times frequently publish articles about Parasoft's new products and technologies, demonstrating the high level of interest within the industry.
    • Webinars and Events: Parasoft also actively hosts webinars (online seminars) and exhibits at industry events about its products and related technologies.

These factors mean that Parasoft C/C++test is a tool developed and supported by a trustworthy company with an active community and information sources.

Use cases and future prospects: In what areas and what will happen in the future?

In what specific areas is Parasoft C/C++test being used, and how will it evolve in the future?

Current Use-cases

It is used in all fields where C/C++ language is used and high quality and safety are required.

  • AutomotiveSoftware development for components that cannot tolerate malfunction, such as autonomous driving systems, engine control units (ECUs), and car navigation systems. MISRA C/C++ compliance is often required.
  • Aerospace & Defense: Fields that require extremely high reliability, such as aircraft flight control systems, satellite control systems, and missile guidance systems.
  • Medical DevicesSoftware for medical devices that directly affect human life, such as pacemakers, ventilators, diagnostic equipment, etc. Compliance with medical device software standards such as IEC 62304 is important.
  • Industrial Control: Important systems that support social infrastructure, such as factory automation systems (PLC, etc.) and power plant control systems.
  • General Embedded Systems: Software that runs in environments with limited memory and CPU power, such as home appliances, communication equipment, and IoT devices. Bugs can easily become fatal.
  • Financial Systems: Bank accounting systems and transaction systems that require high levels of security and accuracy.
  • General C/C++ DevelopmentIn addition to the above, it is also used to improve code quality, security, and maintainability in situations where C/C++ is used, such as game development, OS development, and scientific and technical software that performs high-performance calculations.

In particular, from the perspective of "strengthening security," it is important to detect the aforementioned CWE and comply with new standards such as ISO 21434 (automotive cybersecurity).

Future Outlook

Parasoft C/C++test is expected to continue to evolve in line with the evolution of software development.

  • Further evolution of AI functionsCurrent AI assistants and suggested fixes will become more advanced, and we may see features like predicting code patterns that are prone to bugs and automatically performing more complex fixes.
  • Compliance with new standards and regulationsCybersecurity threats are constantly changing, and new coding standards and regulations emerge to keep up, so Parasoft will be able to keep up with them.
  • Deeper integration into DevSecOpsThe idea of ​​"DevSecOps," which integrates development, security, and operations to release software quickly and safely, is becoming more widespread. Testing tools like Parasoft C/C++test will be seamlessly integrated into the DevSecOps pipeline (a series of automated processes) and will play a role in ensuring quality and security at every stage of development.
  • Expanding cloud-based solutions: Service delivery on the cloud may be enhanced to provide a more flexible and scalable testing environment.

The goal has always been to enable the efficient development of "safer, more secure, and higher quality software."

Competitive comparison: How does it compare to other tools?

Parasoft C/C++test is not the only static analysis tool. There are many other tools on the market. Here, we will look at the strengths of Parasoft C/C++test compared to general static analysis tools.

Examples of static analysis tools for C/C++ include (but are not limited to):

  • Clang Static Analyzer (Open Source)
  • PC-lint / FlexeLint (commercial)
  • Coverity (Synopsys, commercial)
  • Klocwork (Perforce, commercial)
  • SonarQube (C/C++ plugin available in commercial version)

Each of these tools has its own excellent features, but Parasoft C/C++test has the following strengths:

  • Advanced AI Integration:
    AI-driven usability and productivity improvements, such as suggested fixes by the AI ​​assistant and GenAI agent, are a major feature of Parasoft C/C++test and give it an advantage over the competition. AI support will be a great help, especially for beginners.
  • Comprehensive and Up-to-date Standards Support:
    They provide thorough support for major coding standards and vulnerability lists, such as MISRA C/C++ (especially full support for the latest MISRA C:2025), CERT C/C++, AUTOSAR C++14, and CWE. Their rapid response to new versions of standards is highly regarded, especially in highly regulated industries.
  • Unified Static and Dynamic Testing:
    Parasoft C/C++test provides not only static analysis, but also unit testing, code coverage analysis (how much of the code has been exercised by the tests), and dynamic testing capabilities such as runtime error detection in a single environment, allowing you to efficiently cover the entire software testing lifecycle.
  • Focus on Usability:
    It is designed to be easy for developers to use, with features such as the aforementioned "rule duplication suppression function," an intuitive interface, and detailed reporting functions. The AI ​​assistant is also part of this.
  • Enterprise-grade Support and Proven Track Record:
    Parasoft has a long track record and a solid support system for large companies. There are also many cases of implementation in mission-critical system development.

The best tool to use will depend on your project's requirements and budget, but Parasoft C/C++test is a strong choice, especially for projects that prioritize AI-driven productivity and strict standards compliance.

Risks and Precautions: What should you be careful of when using it?

No matter how good a tool is, there are limitations and things to be aware of when using it, and Parasoft C/C++test is no exception.

  • Learning Curve:
    Even with the help of AI assistants, it still takes some learning to get the most out of these powerful tools, especially in terms of understanding the many analysis rules and customizing them to fit your project.
  • Licensing Cost:
    As it is a commercial tool, it requires licensing fees, which may be a budgetary constraint for individuals or small projects.
  • Avoid Over-reliance:
    Static analysis tools are not a panacea.It is dangerous to be overconfident and think, "It's OK because the tool says it's OK." Static analysis cannot find certain types of bugs, and is only meant to assist developers. It is important to combine it with other testing techniques, such as human review, dynamic testing, and system testing.
  • Configuration Complexity:
    If you are working with large projects or special build systems, you may need specialized knowledge to optimally configure the tools and integrate them into your development process.
  • Potential for False Positives:
    In rare cases, the system may flag code that is actually problematic as problematic (false positive). In such cases, developers must determine whether the flag is a real problem or a false positive, and suppress the flag if necessary. As AI advances, false positives are on the decline, but they will not be reduced to zero.
  • Tool Performance:
    Analyzing a very large code base can take a long time. To operate efficiently, you need to be creative and set the analysis scope appropriately and use differential analysis (analyzing only the parts that have changed).

The key to success is to understand these points, take advantage of the tool's features, and effectively incorporate it into the development process.

Expert opinion and analysis: What does the industry think?

Parasoft C/C++test, especially the version with its latest AI capabilities, is attracting attention from experts in the software development industry.

  • Technology news siteinfoworldThe article "Parasoft C/C++test adds AI assistant" states that "the new AI assistant facilitates quick access to important information in Parasoft product documentation and user manuals based on task-focused inquiries," and evaluates that it is "aimed at improving overall C/C++ testing usability and developer productivity, and reducing training time and effort for new users in static and dynamic testing."
  • PR NewswireAccording to a Parasoft press release, “Parasoft Enhances C/C++ Software Test Automation With…” as reported by IDC, the C/C++test 2025.1 release “accelerates the path to safer, more secure, and higher quality software while reducing real-world failures and compliance violations.”
  • SD Times,Embedded ComputingOther industry media outlets such as Amazon.co.jp have also reported on Parasoft C/C++test 2025.1's AI-assisted testing, full support for MISRA C:2025, and the addition of approximately 70 new static analysis rules, which are expected to help C/C++ developers improve code quality, especially in areas where safety and security are critical.

Overall, industry experts agree that Parasoft C/C++test is raising the bar in quality assurance and security for C/C++ software development by actively incorporating AI techniques and supporting modern coding standards.


Future potential of Parasoft C/C++test, C++, static analysis represented visually

Latest News and Roadmap Highlights: What's Next?

Let's summarize the latest information about Parasoft C/C++test and what's next.

Latest News – June 2025

  • Parasoft C/C++test 2025.1 Release: This is the biggest news!
    • Introducing AI Assistant: A key feature that significantly improves usability and productivity.
    • Addition of approximately 70 new CWE static analysis rules: Enhanced security testing capabilities help discover critical vulnerabilities such as memory corruption and logic flaws earlier.
    • Full support for MISRA C:2025: Good news for developers in the automotive industry and other sectors where functional safety is required.
    • MISRA C:2023 rule updates: Obsolete rules have been removed to improve functional safety.
    • Expanded compiler support: Supports new versions of ARM Compiler, Clang C/C++ Compiler, GNU GCC, Hexagon Clang Compiler, and Intel Classic C/C++ Compiler, making it available in more development environments.
    • Equivalence rule violation suppression functionImproved efficiency when working with multiple coding standards.

Roadmap Highlights (including predictions)

Although Parasoft has not disclosed a detailed official long-term roadmap, based on industry trends and the company's past actions, the following direction is predicted:

  • Continuing to enhance AI capabilities:
    It is expected that the scope of AI applications will expand further, including bug prediction, more advanced automatic fix suggestions, and automatic generation of test cases.
  • Support for new security and industry-specific standards:
    As cybersecurity threats continue to evolve, we will see new versions of the OWASP Top 10, as well as standards for IoT security and supply chain security.
  • The evolution of cloud-native testing solutions:
    As development environments move to the cloud, Parasoft's testing solutions will also become more easily available in the cloud, potentially improving scalability and collaboration.
  • More seamless integration with your DevSecOps pipeline:
    Strengthened integration with CI/CD tools (tools that automate continuous integration/continuous delivery), version control systems, and issue trackers will make it easier to incorporate security and quality earlier in the development lifecycle.
  • Support for new versions of C++: The C++ language itself is also evolving (e.g. C++20, C++23), and parsing rules and support for new language features will be provided.

Parasoft will continue to innovate with the goal of solving the challenges software developers face and helping them develop better software more efficiently.

FAQ section: answers to your most frequently asked questions!

Finally, we will answer some questions that beginners may have about Parasoft C/C++test and static analysis in a Q&A format.

Q1: What exactly does Parasoft C/C++test do?
A1: Yes, this is a tool that performs a "health check" on software written in the programming languages ​​C and C++. Before the program is completed, it finds hidden bugs (faults), security vulnerabilities, or violations of the coding rules (coding conventions) decided by the team, without even running the program. This allows you to create safer, higher quality software.
Q2: What is so useful about "static analysis"?
A2: The biggest advantage of static analysis is that it can find problems before you run a program. If you compare it to cooking, it's like noticing that some vegetables are spoiled while you're cutting the ingredients. It's much easier to fix them than to realize after you've actually cooked them and they taste bad. You can fix bugs at an early development stage, which saves time and money. It also finds security holes and violations of team rules, so everyone can feel at ease while making good products.
Q3: What exactly does the "AI" in the latest version do?
A3: It's like a very smart helper. For example, when you have trouble using a tool, an AI assistant can tell you, "That's written in this part of the manual," or suggest specific code fixes for errors found in static analysis, such as, "How about fixing it like this?" This makes developers' work smoother and makes it easier to learn the tool.
Q4: What are MISRA C and CERT C? They seem difficult...
A4: Don't worry. Simply put, it's like a "rulebook for writing secure C language programs." MISRA C is a set of rules that is often used when writing programs for systems that absolutely cannot be wrong, such as car brakes and airbags. CERT C is like a collection of tips for writing highly secure programs that are less likely to be targeted by hackers. Parasoft C/C++test automatically checks against these rulebooks and tells developers that "this way of writing violates the rules," so developers can write programs that follow the rules with peace of mind.
Q5: Can I use this tool for free?
A5: Parasoft C/C++test is a highly functional tool used by professional development teams, so unfortunately it cannot be used for free forever. Basically, companies purchase a license (right to use) to use it. However, if you inquire on Parasoft's official website, you may be able to use an "evaluation version" to try out the functions, so please check if you are interested.

Related links collection

For more information about Parasoft C/C++test, please see the following links:

This article is intended to provide information about Parasoft C/C++test and related technologies, and is not intended to recommend the purchase of any specific product. When considering the introduction or use of any tool, please be sure to conduct sufficient research and comparison at your own risk.

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