What does linux header mean?

The header of Linux refers to the beginning of a file or data stream, which is used to contain metadata about the content. By correctly writing and using the Header file, developers can better utilize system resources and improve Code readability and maintainability.

The operating environment of this article: Linux 6.4.3 system, DELL G3 computer.

In the computer field, Header refers to the beginning of a file or data stream, used to contain metadata about the content. In the Linux operating system, the concept of Header is also widely used, involving software development, file formats, etc. This article will delve into the meaning and role of Header in Linux, as well as its importance to system development and file processing.

Part 1: The role of Header in Linux

1.1 System call

In the Linux operating system, the system call is between the application program and the kernel. a way of interacting. When an application needs to communicate with the operating system and request a certain service, it will call the corresponding system call. The Header file plays a very important role here. It defines the interface of the system call, including the definition of function parameters, return values ​​and data structures. By including the appropriate header files, developers can ensure proper communication between the application and the kernel and obtain the required system services.

1.2 Library files and modules

In Linux, library files are used to store some commonly used functions or tools, allowing developers to write code more efficiently. The Header file here plays the role of connecting the library file and the application. It contains the function and variable declarations in the library file. By including the appropriate Header files, developers can use the functionality of the library files in their applications and obtain the corresponding functions and variables.

1.3 File format

In Linux, file format refers to the structure and organization of files. Common file formats include binary files, text files, image files, etc. Each format has a corresponding Header to identify and describe the file. For example, in an image file, the Header contains information such as the width, height, and color mode of the image, and is used to parse and process the image file. During file processing, Header files play a key role in correctly parsing and processing different file formats.

Part 2: Important Header files

2.1 Header files called by the Linux system

In Linux, the Header files called by the system are located in / under the usr/include folder. Among them, the main Header files include unistd.h, fcntl.h, stdio.h, etc. A large number of system call functions and related data structures are defined in these files. When developers write applications, they usually need to include appropriate header files in order to use the functions provided by system calls.

2.2 Header file of the standard library

The standard library in Linux consists of a series of functions and is widely used in the development of various applications. Common standard library Header files include stdio.h, stdlib.h, string.h, etc. The declarations of standard library functions are defined in these files, allowing developers to directly call these functions to implement various functions.

2.3 Header files in file formats

There are some specific Header files in Linux for different file formats. Taking image files as an example, common image file formats include BMP, JPEG, PNG, etc. Each format has a corresponding Header file, which is used to identify and describe the structure and content of the file. When developers process files, they need to include appropriate header files in order to parse and process the files correctly.

Part 3: Writing and using Header

3.1 Writing Header files

When writing Header files, you need to follow certain specifications and conventions. Define functions, variables and data structures. Usually, the Header file needs to define the prototype, macro definition, constants and data structures of the function. During the writing process, you need to consider the readability and maintainability of the code to ensure the ease of use and scalability of the Header file.

3.2 Using Header files

Using Header files is very simple. You only need to include the appropriate Header files in the code files that need to use the functions. During compilation, the compiler will compile the header file and code file together into an executable file. By correctly including and using header files, developers can easily take advantage of the required functionality to implement complex system development and file processing.

Conclusion:

Headers play a very important role in Linux systems. They play a key role in system calls, library files and file formats. By correctly writing and using header files, developers can better utilize system resources and improve code readability and maintainability. Therefore, in-depth understanding and proficient use of Header files are essential skills for every Linux developer.

The above is the detailed content of What does linux header mean?. For more information, please follow other related articles on the PHP Chinese website!