# How C remains the foundation of modern computing in 2026

Page: https://stenobird.com/podcast/the-programming-languages-podcast-with-fexingo-python-rust-javascript-and-modern-coding-7872026/how-c-remains-the-foundation-of-modern-computing-in-2026
Text version: https://stenobird.com/podcast/the-programming-languages-podcast-with-fexingo-python-rust-javascript-and-modern-coding-7872026/how-c-remains-the-foundation-of-modern-computing-in-2026.md
Podcast: [The Programming Languages Podcast with Fexingo: Python, Rust, JavaScript, and Modern Coding](https://stenobird.com/podcast/the-programming-languages-podcast-with-fexingo-python-rust-javascript-and-modern-coding-7872026)
Published: 2026-07-06T22:10:12+00:00
Episode link: https://audio.fexingo.com/business/the-programming-languages-podcast/episode-0095.mp3
Audio file: https://audio.fexingo.com/business/the-programming-languages-podcast/episode-0095.mp3
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Duration seconds: 582

## Resource

We look at why C, the 50-year-old language, still compiles the kernels, firmware, and interpreters that run the modern tech stack. Lucas argues that Rust's hype overshadows C's irreplaceable role in embedded systems, operating systems, and the foundational layers of cloud infrastructure. Luna pushes back, questioning whether C's safety issues should finally force a migration. Specific examples: the Linux kernel still shipping 95% C code, the TIOBE index showing C at number two in 2026, and how every major language's runtime—Python, JavaScript, Go—is written in C. We also discuss the recent C23 standard and the 'C isn't going anywhere' thesis from system programmers at the 2026 Kernel Developers Conference. #CProgramming #SystemsProgramming #LinuxKernel #EmbeddedSystems #C23 #RustVsC #OperatingSystems #Compilers #LLVM #Firmware #IoT #ProgrammingLanguages #Technology #FexingoBusiness #BusinessPodcast #CodeCraft #LegacyCode #MemorySafety Keep every episode free: buymeacoffee.com/fexingo

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