What is Position-independent code?
Machine code that runs without modification at any load address, also called PIC. It uses PC-relative references and the GOT and is used for shared libraries and PIEs.
Position-independent code in the explanations
Position-independent code refers to functions and data not by fixed addresses but by distances from the PC or through a table of addresses (the GOT).
Which describes position-independent code (PIC)?This is the foundation of position-independent code (PIC) used in shared libraries.
What is an advantage of using PC-relative addressing for br…This allows position-independent code, which runs wherever it is loaded, to call distant functions and read global variables.
What does the RISC-V auipc instruction (add upper immediate…
Questions that mention Position-independent code (5)
- Which describes position-independent code (PIC)?
- What is an advantage of using PC-relative addressing for branches and jumps?
- What does the RISC-V auipc instruction (add upper immediate to PC) do?
- What is the role of the GOT (global offset table) used in shared libraries?
- What is the main reason to build an executable as a PIE (position-independent executable)?
Related terms
Shared library PC-relative addressing Branch prediction Global offset table Dynamic linker Position-independent executable Address space layout randomization (ASLR) BSS section Dynamic linking Entry point