What is the primary function of linking in the execution process of a C++ program?

The primary function of linking in the execution process of a C++ program is to connect different units of code. During the linking stage, the linker combines various object files, which may include compiled code from different source files and libraries. This process resolves references between these files—ensuring that function calls and variable accesses in one file correctly reference the definitions in another. This is essential in managing larger programs where code is often modularized and spread across multiple files.

Linking also facilitates the inclusion of external libraries, allowing the program to use pre-compiled functions and classes that are not defined within the program files. Successful linking ensures that a coherent executable file is produced, capable of being run on the target system.

While compiling translates the code into machine language, linking focuses specifically on combining code from various sources into a single executable. Loading the code into memory is a separate phase that occurs after linking, preparing the program for execution. Editing for accuracy relates to code quality and correctness, which occurs before compilation. Each of these processes plays a distinct role in overall program development and execution, but linking's specific purpose is to connect and resolve different code segments.