How to convert C / C++ files to DLL & load functions from it in Python! | 2023 | Ctypes CDLL shared

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In this video I will show you how to convert C file to DLL and use it in Python!

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💡 What is 'ctypes'?

Ctypes is a Python library that provides a way to access functions and data defined in shared libraries or dynamic-link libraries (DLLs). It allows you to call functions in these libraries directly from Python code. The cdll module within ctypes specifically handles loading dynamic link libraries using the C calling convention.

To use cdll, you typically need to know the function signatures (parameter types and return type) of the functions defined in the DLL you want to access. cdll provides a way to load the library, access its functions, and call them from Python. It handles the necessary conversion of data types between Python and C, making it easier to work with external libraries.

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💡 What is 'shared libraries' in C/Cpp?

Shared libraries in C and C++ are compiled binary files that contain reusable code and data that can be linked to multiple programs at runtime. They provide a way to share common functions, classes, or resources among different applications, allowing for modularity and code reuse.

Shared libraries are also known as dynamic link libraries (DLL) in Windows or shared object files (SO) in Unix-like systems. They are separate files with a specific file extension (.dll or .so) that can be loaded into memory when a program is executed.

Here are a few key points about shared libraries:

Code Reusability: Shared libraries allow developers to write code once and use it in multiple programs, reducing duplication and making maintenance and updates easier.

Dynamic Linking: Shared libraries are dynamically linked to the executable at runtime, meaning the library code is loaded into memory when the program starts. This allows the program to access the library's functions and resources when needed.

Separate Compilation: Shared libraries are compiled separately from the main program. This allows the library to be updated or replaced without recompiling the entire program.

Symbol Resolution: The symbols (functions, variables, etc.) defined in the shared library need to be resolved during runtime. The operating system's dynamic linker performs this task by searching and linking the required symbols from the library.

Versioning: Shared libraries often include versioning mechanisms to manage compatibility between different versions of the library. This helps ensure that programs continue to function correctly even if the library undergoes changes.

Shared Memory: Shared libraries can also share memory segments among different processes, allowing for interprocess communication and shared resources.

Using shared libraries provides several advantages, such as reducing the overall size of executables, enabling modular software design, facilitating code maintenance, and promoting code reuse across multiple programs.

In C and C++, shared libraries can be created and used using specific compiler and linker flags, such as -shared and -l options. The exact process and syntax may vary depending on the platform and build system used.

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📢 EDUCATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY 📢

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