Cross Compilation
Cross compilation is a software development technique where code is compiled on one platform (the host) to produce executable programs that run on a different platform (the target). This is essential when the target system lacks the resources or environment to compile code natively, such as embedded systems, mobile devices, or different operating systems. It involves using a cross-compiler, which is a compiler configured to generate code for a target architecture different from the host.
Developers should learn cross compilation when building software for resource-constrained or inaccessible target platforms, such as embedded systems (e.g., IoT devices), mobile apps (e.g., compiling for iOS on a Windows machine), or cross-platform desktop applications. It is also crucial in scenarios where the target environment lacks development tools or when optimizing build times by leveraging more powerful host machines, such as in continuous integration pipelines for multiple architectures.