What is Executable and Linkable Format (ELF)?

The file format used for object files, executables and shared libraries on Linux and other UNIX-like systems and in embedded devices.

Field: Linkers, Loaders & Executables

Executable and Linkable Format (ELF) in the explanations

Questions that mention Executable and Linkable Format (ELF) (3)

  1. Which statement is correct about files in the ELF format commonly used on Linux and similar systems?
  2. What is the difference between "sections" and "segments" in an ELF file?
  3. Which pairs major operating systems with the executable formats they use correctly?

Related terms

Linker Address space layout randomization (ASLR) BSS section Dynamic linker Dynamic linking Entry point Global offset table Heap memory Linker script Memory fragmentation

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