How Linux ELF Symbols Work and How They Are Used in C++ and C Programming

Explore the intricate world of Linux ELF symbols and their practical applications in C++ and C programming through this comprehensive conference talk from C++ on Sea 2024. Delve into essential concepts including symbol tables, binding and visibility mechanisms, and their relationship with C/C++ linkage. Master the understanding of global, local, weak, and unique symbols while learning how to effectively manage symbol visibility and override functions. Discover the intricate details of symbol storage, viewing methods, and their role in both static and dynamic linking. Gain practical insights into how the linker handles C++ templates and inline variables, along with understanding which program entities require symbols. Learn valuable techniques for working with default versus hidden visibility, presented by Anders Schau Knatten, a principal engineer at Ascenium with extensive programming experience dating back to 1995.