libelf
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Description:
ELF object file access library
Type: Formula  |  Tracked Since: Dec 28, 2025
Links: Homepage  |  formulae.brew.sh
Category: Developer tools
Tags: elf binary parsing c-library development
Install: brew install libelf
About:
Libelf is a lightweight, ELF (Executable and Linkable Format) object file access library. It provides a convenient API for reading and writing ELF files, allowing developers to parse binary structures, manipulate symbol tables, and manage sections without low-level file handling. Its primary value is enabling programmatic inspection and modification of compiled binaries for analysis or tooling.
Key Features:
  • API for reading and writing ELF object files
  • Handles ELF sections, symbols, and relocation entries
  • Lightweight and portable C library
  • Supports various ELF architectures and versions
Use Cases:
  • Building custom binary analysis or inspection tools
  • Modifying ELF symbol tables or section headers for debugging
  • Implementing runtime ELF loaders or dynamic linkers
Alternatives:
  • libbfd – Part of GNU binutils; more comprehensive but GPL licensed and heavier.
  • LIEF – Modern library supporting multiple formats (ELF, PE, Mach-O) with richer features.
Version History
Detected Version Rev Change Commit
Sep 10, 2025 11:56pm 1 VERSION_BUMP bbebe724