Microsoft to replace all C/C++ code with Rust (www.thurrott.com)

Microsoft has announced a bold initiative to eliminate all C and C++ code from its major codebases by the end of the decade, replacing it with the more modern and memory-safe Rust language. Galen Hunt, a Microsoft Distinguished Engineer, shared the ambitious goal on LinkedIn, stating their aim is to have "1 engineer, 1 month, 1 million lines of code." This transition is supported by a robust code processing infrastructure that leverages AI to facilitate large-scale code modifications and refactoring, particularly in their NT/Windows kernel. This significant move underscores Microsoft's commitment to improving code safety and efficiency by adopting Rust, an approach already hinted at in 2023 when the company began rewriting components of the Windows kernel with Rust. The transition will not only modernize Microsoft's technology stack but also positions the company as a leader in the integration of AI within software development, aiming to automate the process of converting legacy code to Rust using large language models (LLMs). As part of this effort, Microsoft is actively looking to hire a Principal Software Engineer with extensive Rust experience to assist in this transformative project, highlighting their dedication to evolving software engineering practices at scale.