What are Linkers and How Do They Work?
Linkers are a type of software that connects object files and libraries to create an executable file. They are used in the development of operating systems, applications, and other software. Linkers take the object files generated by compilers and libraries as input, and generate an executable file as output.
Linkers perform several functions, including:
1. Resolving symbolic references: When a program is written in a high-level language, it may contain symbolic references to functions or variables that are not defined in the current source code. The linker resolves these references by finding the definitions of the functions or variables in other object files or libraries.
2. Relocating code and data: When object files are generated by the compiler, they may contain code and data that is relative to the location of the object file. The linker relocates this code and data to the correct location in the executable file.
3. Stripping unnecessary code and data: The linker can strip away code and data that is not needed in the final executable file, reducing its size and improving its performance.
4. Creating an executable file: The linker takes the object files and libraries as input, and generates an executable file that can be run on the target machine.
There are several types of linkers available, including:
1. Dynamic linkers: These linkers create an executable file that contains a reference to the libraries and other object files that it depends on. When the program is run, the dynamic linker loads these dependencies and resolves any symbolic references at runtime.
2. Static linkers: These linkers create an executable file that contains all of the dependencies embedded within it. This means that the program can be run without any additional dependencies, but it also means that the size of the executable file will be larger.
3. Shared linkers: These linkers create an executable file that contains shared libraries, which are collections of code and data that can be used by multiple programs. When a program is linked against a shared library, only the specific functions and variables that are needed are included in the final executable file.
In summary, linkers are an essential part of the software development process, as they take the object files generated by compilers and libraries and create an executable file that can be run on the target machine. They perform several functions, including resolving symbolic references, relocating code and data, stripping unnecessary code and data, and creating an executable file. There are several types of linkers available, including dynamic, static, and shared linkers.
I like this
I dislike this
Report a content error
Share
