Dynamic Link - Runtime Connection

Enhanced Definition

A dynamic link, in the z/OS context, refers to the process where a program resolves and loads external routines or modules during its execution, rather than incorporating them into its load module at link-edit time. This runtime connection allows programs to share common code, reduces the size of individual load modules, and enhances application modularity and flexibility.

Key Characteristics

- Late Binding: External references to subroutines or data areas are resolved at the point of execution, not during the link-edit phase.
- Shared Code: Enables multiple programs or instances of a program to share a single copy of a common routine or library module in virtual storage, optimizing memory usage.
- Modularity and Flexibility: Promotes independent development and deployment of program components, allowing updates to shared modules without requiring the relinking of all calling programs.
- Dynamic Loading: The z/OS system loader (LOAD service) is invoked at runtime to locate, load, and