Indlæser

Indlæser is a Danish term used in computing to describe a component or program that loads executable code and data into a computer’s memory so that it can be executed or processed. The word covers both boot-time loading and runtime loading, and is often used as the direct Danish equivalent of the English term loader.

Common types are boot loaders (opstartsindlæser) and runtime loaders. A boot loader initializes hardware, selects a boot device, and loads the operating system into memory. A runtime loader loads the program’s executable sections and required libraries, performs relocations, and transfers control to the program’s entry point. In operating systems, the loader is distinct from the linker: the linker creates the executable, while the loader brings it into memory for execution. The dynamic loader (dynamisk indlæser) loads shared libraries at startup or on demand.

The loading process generally involves reading executable headers or section tables, allocating memory for code and data, applying relocations, resolving external references, mapping shared libraries, setting up the process environment and stack, and finally transferring control to the program’s entry point. Security practices associated with loaders include address space layout randomization (ASLR), enforcing appropriate memory permissions, and verifying digital signatures where applicable.

Beyond executables, the term indlæser is also used for data import components within applications, such as CSV indlæsere or database import modules, which read external data into the program’s internal structures.

Etymology: the word comes from ind- (into) and læse (to read), reflecting the operation of bringing a program or data into memory for use.