program needed to control output on lpt1 port

Hi I have a small project and at the moment have no idea how to write a .exe file, but I learn fast.

I need to write a program to latch a bit on the parallel port LPT1 to control a relay board.

Say on2.exe to turn on bit 2 on the LPT1 port.
Say on4.exe to turn on bit 4 on the LPT1 port.
Say off.exe to reset output pins on LPT1 port.

Help in this direction or code I can compile, and what software I need.

Working in Windows XP SP2.

THANKS IN ADVANCE.

First you make sure you're using a compiler which is actually compatible with your OS (say visual studio), as opposed to some 20 year old DOS compiler (which just happens to run through a mass of "compatibility" layers).

That said, start here
CreateFile Function (Windows)

Should have Visual studio 2008 by the end of the day.