Executable

An executable is a file containing a program that a computer can directly run or execute, typically compiled from source code into machine code or bytecode. It represents the final, runnable form of software that performs specific tasks when launched by an operating system or runtime environment.

Also known as: Binary, EXE, App, Program file, Runnable

Why learn Executable?

Developers should understand executables to create deployable software applications, manage software distribution, and debug runtime issues. This is essential for building standalone programs, installers, scripts, and system utilities across platforms like Windows (.exe), macOS (.app), and Linux (ELF binaries).

Learning Resources

• docs: Executable and Linkable Format (ELF) Specification
• docs: Microsoft PE and COFF Specification
• video: How Executables Work - Computerphile
• docs: Executable File Formats on Wikipedia
• tutorial: Creating an Executable with GCC