Which imp lib format is better for GNU LD?

[miguelangelcano]

Hello,

The guide mentions that GNU LD supports both lib formats: the MS-specific and the one with longer names. The sample applications are using the latter format when compiling for GNU LD. Is there a specific reason to prefer this format?

[vkamenar]

Hello Miguel,

The MS-specific format contains an object called __NULL_IMPORT_DESCRIPTOR. This object is a set of null bytes to mark the end of the IAT. GNU LD appends the null bytes automatically. If __NULL_IMPORT_DESCRIPTOR is present, null bytes are appended twice. Therefore, I'd rather use the GNU format, not the MS-specific, to prevent appending duplicate null bytes.

In order to switch the import library format to the one compatible with GNU LD and lld-link, just change the value of RENAME_AR_MEMBERS to 1.