Compile Time Linking
Compile time linking is a process in software development where references to external code (such as libraries or modules) are resolved during the compilation phase, before the program is executed. It involves the compiler incorporating the necessary code from libraries directly into the executable file, ensuring that all dependencies are available at runtime. This approach contrasts with dynamic linking, which resolves references at runtime.
Developers should use compile time linking when they need to create standalone executables that do not rely on external libraries being present on the target system, improving portability and reducing runtime overhead. It is particularly useful for distributing applications in environments where library versions might vary or for performance-critical systems where minimizing startup time is essential. However, it can increase the size of the executable and make updates more cumbersome compared to dynamic linking.