GNU toolchain - Definition and Overview

The GNU toolchain is a blanket term given to the programming tools produced by the GNU project. These projects form an integrated system that is used for programming both applications and operating systems.

It is a vital component in Linux kernel development, BSD development and a standard tool when developing software for embedded systems. Parts of the toolchain are also widely used in the Solaris Operating Environment (which many consider needs the GNU tools for reasonable usability) and Microsoft Windows programming with cygwin.

Projects that are included in the GNU toolchain

• GNU make - build and compilation automation
• The GNU Compiler Collection (GCC) - compilers for several languages,
• The GNU Binutils - linker, assembler and other tools
• The GNU Debugger (GDB) - an interactive debugger
• The GNU build system (autotools) - Autoconf, Autoheader, Automake, Libtool - makefiles generators

Related projects

• GNU C Library a standard C library
• Classpath
• CVS

See also

• Toolchain