[FIXED] How does the same source code generate binaries for different platforms?

Issue

Many multi-platform applications seem to have common source code. How do builds generate platform specific binaries?
Is it possible to build say, a windows binary on linux or mac?

Solution

It's possible if you have an appropriate cross-compiler and libraries. For example, many programs which are available on both Linux and Windows use the MinGW toolchain on Windows, which includes a library that emulates POSIX functions using Win32 functions.

Answered By - geekosaur

Answer Checked By - Robin (PHPFixing Admin)