Go Compiler

o (Golang) Compiler

The Go compiler is the tool that converts Go source code (.go files) into machine-readable executables.
It is known for being fast, simple, and reliable.

1️⃣ What is the Go Compiler?

  • Written and maintained by Google

  • Part of the official Go toolchain

  • Compiles Go code into native binaries

  • No external runtime needed (unlike Java, Python)

✔ Output is a single executable file

2️⃣ Go Compilation Process (Simple Flow)

Go Source Code (.go)
↓
go tool compile
↓
Object Files
↓
go linker
↓
Executable Binary

👉 All steps are handled automatically by Go commands.

3️⃣ Common Commands

Compile & Run (Quick)

go run main.go

Compile-Only

go build

Compile Specific File

go build main.go

Install Binary

go install

4️⃣ Go Build Output

  • On Windows → main.exe

  • On Linux / macOS → main

./main

5️⃣ Its Features

✔ Very fast compilation
✔ Strong static typing
✔ Automatic dependency handling
✔ Built-in garbage collection
✔ Cross-platform support

6️⃣ Cross Compilation (Powerful Feature)

Compile for another OS or architecture without extra tools.

Example: Windows binary from Linux

GOOS=windows GOARCH=amd64 go build

Common GOOS / GOARCH

OS GOOS
Windows windows
Linux linux
macOS darwin
Architecture GOARCH
64-bit amd64
ARM arm

7️⃣ Compiler Errors (Helpful & Strict)

Go compiler:

  • Stops on errors

  • Gives clear messages

  • Enforces clean code

Example:


8️⃣ No Unused Code Allowed


✔ Encourages clean code

9️⃣ Go Compiler vs C Compiler

Feature Go C
Speed Fast Slower
Memory Safety High Low
Output Single binary Binary + libs
GC Yes No

🔟 Go Build Tags (Advanced)

//go:build linux

Used for OS-specific code.

Summary

  • It produces native executables

  • Fast & strict

  • Supports cross-compilation

  • No unused code allowed

  • Part of Go toolchain

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