Meaning
Specification files used during the compilation process dictate the precise arrangement of compiled code and data within the target physical memory. The execution of a linker script order defines how input sections from compiled object files are mapped to output sections in the final binary. Correct positioning ensures that the system puts startup instructions at the reset vector and arranges application code to prevent memory fragmentation.
Layout Determinism
Deterministic sequence planning ensures that subsequent builds with identical source files produce identical binary outputs. When the layout is left to compiler defaults, slight changes in file discovery sequence can result in varying function offsets, causing compiled binaries to fail integrity tests. Specifying the exact order of section merging eliminates this source of non-determinism, enabling reproducible builds.
Security Constraint
Arranging sections with intent prevents memory access violations and blocks exploitation of hardware vulnerabilities. For example, placing read-only data blocks away from executable instructions helps prevent unauthorized read-write execution overlaps. Linker configuration enforces these boundaries at the hardware level during system startup.
Assembly Procedure
During the final compilation phase, the linker processes the specified script to resolve symbol addresses and generate the output binary. The tool translates symbol references into absolute addresses based on the defined order.
