ragel ☆
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Description:
State machine compiler
Type: Formula  |  Tracked Since: Dec 28, 2025
Links: Homepage  |  formulae.brew.sh
Category: Developer tools
Tags: parser compiler state-machine development tool
Install: brew install ragel
About:
Ragel is a state machine compiler that generates deterministic finite automata (DFAs) from a high-level state chart notation. It excels at parsing binary data, network protocols, and text formats by embedding state machine logic directly into host languages like C, C++, Go, and Ruby. Its primary value is creating extremely fast and compact parsers for complex, byte-level patterns.
Key Features:
  • Generates fast, table-driven or goto-based state machines
  • Supports embedding into multiple host languages (C, C++, Go, Ruby, etc.)
  • Can handle both binary and text-based input
  • Integrates with Lex/Yacc-style parsers for complex grammars
Use Cases:
  • Parsing binary network protocols (e.g., HTTP, custom TCP protocols)
  • High-performance text processing and lexical analysis
  • Implementing regular expression engines or pattern matchers
Alternatives:
  • Flex/Bison – Ragel is often faster for byte-level parsing and uses a more integrated state machine model, whereas Flex/Bison are the classic lexer/parser combo.
Version History
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