Static Software Library

A Static Software Library is a software library that is linked to the software system at compile time.

• See: Dynamic Library.

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References

2023

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  • Static software libraries and dynamic software libraries are two different ways of linking and loading libraries into a software application.
    • A static software library is a type of library that is linked to the application at compile time. The object code of the library is included in the executable file of the application, so the library becomes a permanent part of the application. This means that the library code is loaded into memory when the application is loaded, and all the functions in the library are available for use throughout the application's lifetime. Because the library is linked at compile time, it is not possible to add or remove library functions at runtime. Static libraries are typically used for small, self-contained applications or for performance-critical code.
    • A dynamic software library, on the other hand, is a type of library that is linked to the application at runtime. The library is stored as a separate file on the disk, and the application loads it into memory as needed. This means that the library code is not loaded into memory until it is actually needed, which can save memory space. Dynamic libraries can also be loaded and unloaded at runtime, which allows applications to add or remove library functions as needed. Dynamic libraries are typically used for large applications that require many external libraries or for applications that need to support plugin architectures.
  • In general, static libraries offer faster performance, but dynamic libraries offer greater flexibility and are easier to update and maintain. The choice of which type of library to use depends on the specific needs of the application and the tradeoffs between performance, flexibility, and ease of maintenance.

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