Do ubuntu, gcc later version cover older versions?

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My professor is using automated scoring program for my programming assignment. It is C programming handling some file stuff.

He asks students to use Ubuntu version 18.xx and gcc 7.xx. and I asked him if I can use the later version of those, which are 20.xx, 9.xx respectively. and he's not so sure about it with saying that might not be the problem but just in case use the exact version.

I don't want to delete the current Ubuntu, gcc and re-downloaded the exact version he mentioned, because it might take some time and I have to keep using this laptop for many more assignments from other classes. I want to use the later version (seems like quite a big gap between 18.xx, 7.xx and 20.xx, 9.xx)!

Are there any potential problems for using my current version?

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Zefaryo On

It would also be possible to check the default standard of the gcc version used by your teacher and use the corresponding std flag : "-std=c11" for example.

(I'm unfortunately in a rush and can't check it yet but when I have more time, I can try to look it up if you still didn't get the information)

It may also be possible that he already uses a specific standard, in that case it's better to ask him.

Bugs might arise but I think it would be pretty negligible if you use the same standard.

Otherwise if you are using a Debian based distro you can also install his gcc version alongside your actual one and use them with "update-alternatives". If not you can use a Docker container.

Something to look for is also if you are going to use OS specific library or functions : For example Windows is not POSIX compliant so I had to use WSL but linux (and mac aswell if I remember correctly) are.