Runtime Linking
Runtime linking is a programming concept where libraries or modules are loaded and linked to an executable program during its execution, rather than at compile time. It enables dynamic loading of code, allowing applications to extend functionality, reduce memory usage, and support plugins or updates without recompilation. This is commonly implemented through mechanisms like dynamic link libraries (DLLs) on Windows or shared objects (SOs) on Unix-like systems.
Developers should learn runtime linking for building modular and extensible software, such as applications with plugin architectures, games with mod support, or systems requiring hot-swappable components. It is essential in scenarios where code needs to be updated or loaded on-demand, like in web servers handling dynamic modules or mobile apps downloading features post-installation, as it improves flexibility and resource efficiency.