Microsoft Sets a 2030 Deadline for C and C++

Microsoft is preparing for one of the biggest software transitions in its history. The company plans to replace all existing C and C++ code with Rust by the end of this decade.

The goal was outlined by the company’s Distinguished Engineer Galen Hunt. He said Microsoft wants to remove every line of C and C++ across its codebases. The move focuses on safety, scale, and long-term maintainability.

This shift signals a major change in how Microsoft builds and maintains its most critical software.

Why Is It Moving to Rust

Rust is designed to prevent memory-related bugs. These issues have long affected C and C++ systems. Microsoft believes Rust can significantly reduce security risks while improving system stability.

In recent years, Microsoft has already pushed teams away from starting new C and C++ projects. Rust is now the preferred choice for systems-level development.

The company has also begun introducing Rust into the Windows kernel and cloud infrastructure.

AI Will Rewrite Millions of Lines of Code

Microsoft is not relying on manual rewriting alone. Instead, it is using AI and algorithm-driven systems to refactor code at scale.

The internal target is ambitious. Microsoft wants one engineer to rewrite one million lines of code in one month. To achieve this, the company has built a large code processing platform.

This system maps massive codebases and applies AI agents to understand, modify, and translate code safely.

Windows and Core Systems Are in Scope

The plan includes Microsoft’s largest and most complex systems. That list likely includes Windows, Azure services, and internal infrastructure.

Earlier statements from Microsoft leadership confirmed that Rust would play a central role in future Windows development. Automated translation from C and C++ to Rust is already underway.

This effort builds on years of gradual transition.

Inside Rust Refactoring Team

The project sits within Microsoft CoreAI under the Engineering Horizons group. The team focuses on eliminating technical debt at scale.

The company is also hiring experienced Rust engineers to strengthen this initiative. Systems programming and compiler knowledge are seen as key skills.

The company aims to eventually deploy these tools across Microsoft and beyond.