IncludeFetchContent

IncludeFetchContent is a CMake command that simplifies the process of including external projects or libraries in a CMake-based build system. It is particularly useful for managing dependencies that are not available through package managers or are not easily integrated into the build system. The command was introduced in CMake version 3.11 to provide a more streamlined and modern approach to handling external content.

The primary advantage of IncludeFetchContent is its simplicity and ease of use. It allows developers to specify the source of an external project, such as a Git repository, and automatically handles the downloading, updating, and building of that project as part of the main build process. This can significantly reduce the complexity of managing dependencies, especially for projects with multiple external libraries.

To use IncludeFetchContent, developers need to include the FetchContent module in their CMakeLists.txt file using the include command. They then define the external project using the FetchContent_Declare command, specifying details such as the source URL and any required build options. The FetchContent_MakeAvailable command is used to make the external project available to the main build system, ensuring that its targets and dependencies are correctly integrated.

One of the key features of IncludeFetchContent is its ability to handle updates to external projects seamlessly. When the source of an external project is updated, CMake will automatically download the new version and rebuild the project as needed. This ensures that developers are always working with the latest version of their dependencies, reducing the risk of compatibility issues.

In summary, IncludeFetchContent is a powerful tool for managing external dependencies in CMake-based projects. Its simplicity, ease of use, and ability to handle updates make it an attractive option for developers looking to streamline their build processes and reduce the complexity of managing external libraries.