Executables
An executable is a file in a format that a computer's operating system can directly run to perform a specific task or program. It contains machine code instructions that the CPU executes, often compiled from source code written in programming languages like C, C++, or Go. Executables are fundamental to software deployment and execution across various platforms, including Windows (.exe), Linux (ELF), and macOS (Mach-O).
Developers should understand executables to build, package, and distribute software effectively, as they are the final deliverable in many development workflows. This knowledge is crucial for tasks like cross-platform compilation, debugging binary issues, and optimizing performance in compiled languages such as C++ or Rust. It's also essential for system administration, security analysis (e.g., malware detection), and working with tools like Docker containers that rely on executable files.