Linker and Loader: Understanding Compilation in C

This lecture covers the concepts of linker and loader in the context of C programming. It begins with an overview of separate compilation, explaining how different components of a program are compiled independently. The instructor discusses the role of the linker, which resolves references between object files and creates an executable. Key topics include the types of tables involved in linking, such as export and import tables, and how they facilitate the linking process. The lecture also addresses the loader's function in managing memory addresses during program execution. Through examples, the instructor illustrates how to compile a program using GCC, detailing the commands for creating object files and linking them into an executable. The importance of header files and makefiles in managing dependencies and ensuring proper compilation is emphasized. The lecture concludes with practical insights into error handling during the linking process, helping students understand common issues that may arise when compiling C programs.