I'm new to C but eager to get started. I purchasewd beginning C by Ivor Horton and realise that I need a C compiler. I looking for the most appropriate and economical way to obtain this, any suggestions would be greatly appreciated.
If you intend to develop on unix-like platforms (presumably you are), gcc is most probably installed on your system already. Note that some platforms only have "cc" instead of gcc.
I too am learning to "C"!! If you do not have access to a comercial box with CC, or to a Linux box that has GCC, then you can download a compiler that runs on DOS. Here is a description:
DJGPP is a complete 32-bit C/C++ development system for Intel 80386 (and higher) PCs running DOS. It includes ports of many GNU development utilities. The development tools require a 80386 or newer computer to run, as do the programs they produce. In most cases, the programs it produces can be sold commercially without license or royalties.
and a -->link<-- to get the software. Its really easy to setup, couldnt get any easier! Enjoy, and happy programming 
For unix-like platform gcc / g++ (C/C++) is more than enough.
Thanks to all of you guys for pointing me in the right direction. Now for the fun part. I guess its true, 'you're not alone'.
view this: Compiling a program