ld

ld stands for "linker" and is a command-line tool used in Unix-like operating systems to combine object files and libraries into an executable or a shared object. It is a key component of the software development process, as it resolves symbol references between different object files to create a final executable. ld takes input object files generated by compilers, resolves dependencies, and links them together to form a complete output file. It performs several important tasks, including symbol resolution, relocation, and dead code elimination, to ensure a properly functioning executable. ld supports various options and flags to control the linking process, such as specifying input object files, libraries, and output file names. It also allows developers to set linker scripts to fine-tune the linking process by defining custom memory layouts and linker behaviors. The tool supports different formats of object files, such as ELF (Executable and Linkable Format), COFF (Common Object File Format), and Mach-O (Mach Object). ld is typically invoked automatically by the compiler during the final stage of the build process, but it can also be used independently for more advanced linking scenarios. It offers flexibility and customization options, allowing developers to control various aspects of the linking process. Understanding ld and its usage is important for developers who want to optimize their software, manage dependencies, or create custom linking configurations.