What is dynamic linking in C?

Dynamic linking in C refers to the method of linking libraries to a program at runtime rather than at compile time. This allows a program to load and link shared libraries (shared objects) only when they are needed during execution.

Using dynamic linking provides several advantages, such as reducing the overall memory footprint of applications because multiple programs can share a single copy of the library in memory. Additionally, this allows for easier updates; if a library is updated, all programs that use it can take advantage of the new functionality or bug fixes without needing to be recompiled.

In contrast, the other options describe different processes that do not embody the concept of dynamic linking. Compiling code before runtime refers to static linking, which occurs when all necessary libraries are included in the executable at compile time. Linking libraries at compile time also aligns with static linking, where all library content is copied into the program binary. Including header files simply involves the use of declarations and definitions necessary for the compiler but does not pertain to how libraries are linked to the program during execution.