If you have a legitimate need for the source code of version 20.0, here are the valid channels:
If you are maintaining an ancient project that was built with v20.0 and you lost the installer, write to BCGSoft support. Provide proof of your original license (order ID, company email). They are often helpful in providing a download link for the exact version you licensed.
BCGSoft offers a fully functional 30-day trial of the latest version (e.g., v34+). This trial includes headers and libraries, but not the full source code for v20.0. You could, in theory, use the trial to evaluate if the latest version can replace your need for v20.0, but it will not give you v20.0 sources.
For over two decades, BCGControlBar Professional Library has been a cornerstone in the Microsoft Visual C++ (MFC) developer community. Developed by BCGSoft, this library provides a comprehensive set of highly customizable user interface components. From Visual Studio-style docking panes and toolbars to Office-like ribbons, calendars, and grids, BCGControlBar allows C++ developers to create sophisticated, modern desktop applications without reinventing the wheel. bcgcontrolbar 20.0 source download
Version 20.0, released in the mid-2010s, represented a significant milestone. It introduced enhanced Visual Studio 2015-like docking, improved high-DPI support, and new controls. For many developers working on legacy or enterprise-level MFC applications, version 20.0 is a stable, feature-rich sweet spot.
However, a common query echoes through forums like Stack Overflow, Reddit, and CodeProject: "bcgcontrolbar 20.0 source download" .
This article explores the reality behind that search, the legal and practical implications, and provides legitimate pathways to obtain the library. If you have a legitimate need for the
Finding older iterations of commercial MFC libraries is getting harder as the ecosystem shrinks. If anyone has advice on best practices for migrating large codebases from v20 to the modern BCGControlBar Pro versions, I’d love to hear your experiences in the comments.
Note: Please do not share links to pirated software/wares in the comments to keep this thread compliant with community guidelines.
Why are developers specifically looking for the source code of version 20.0, rather than just the compiled libraries (DLLs/LIBs)? Why are developers specifically looking for the source
Before spending time (and risking security) hunting for version 20.0 source, consider these modern alternatives:
| Solution | License | Source Access | MFC Compatibility | Best For | | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | | BCGControlBar (Latest) | Commercial | Available (paid) | Native MFC | Staying with BCGSoft, getting support. | | Prof-UIS | Commercial / Source | Yes (paid) | MFC | Similar feature set, different pricing. | | Ultimate ToolBox | Commercial | No | MFC | Lightweight alternative. | | Qt + Qtwinextras | LGPL / Commercial | Full Open Source | No (requires migration) | Cross-platform, modern C++. | | C++/WinRT + WinUI 3 | Microsoft | Open source (on GitHub) | No (rewrite needed) | Modern Windows apps. |
If your only reason for wanting v20.0 source is to fix a bug or change a UI element, consider purchasing a current source license. BCGSoft has fixed hundreds of bugs since v20.0. The migration effort from v20.0 to v32+ is typically straightforward.
If you are a legitimate license holder (perhaps your CTO purchased it years ago) and you need to re-download version 20.0: