Loading and Linking are processes in an operating system that prepare programs for execution, but they occur at different stages. Loading is the process of transferring a program from storage (like a hard disk) into the main memory (RAM) to be ready for execution, allowing the CPU to access it directly. Linking, however, is the process of combining various program modules and libraries into a single executable file, resolving addresses and dependencies among them.

What is Loading?

Loading is the process of transferring a program from storage (such as a disk) into the system's memory so that it can be executed by the CPU. This involves placing the program's code and data into memory and preparing it for execution.

Examples of Loading:

1. When you open a word processor on your computer, the program is loaded from the hard drive into RAM.
2. Loading a game from a disk or digital download into memory to start playing.

What is Linking?

Linking is the process of combining various pieces of code and data into a single executable file. This process resolves references to functions and variables from different files or modules, ensuring that all components of the program can interact correctly.

Examples of Linking:

1. Combining multiple source code files (.c files) into a single executable program.
2. Linking libraries or modules that a program depends on, such as linking math libraries in a software application.

Difference Between Loading and Linking

Basis	Loading	Linking
Definition	The process of transferring a program from disk to memory for execution.	The process of combining various program modules and resolving references to create a single executable file.
Stage	Occurs at runtime, when a program is executed.	Occurs at compile-time or during the build process of a program.
Purpose	Prepares the program for execution by placing it into memory.	Creates a complete executable by resolving references between code modules.
Interaction	Involves only the memory management aspects of the program.	Involves the interaction and integration of different code modules and libraries.
Tools Used	Operating system memory management functions.	Linkers, such as GNU Linker (ld) or Microsoft Linker.
Examples	Loading a web browser's executable into RAM when you start it.	Linking object files (.o files) generated from source code files (.c files) into a final executable (.exe).