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C# C# Basics (Retired) Console I/O Start Coding

Posted by A X
A X
12,842 Points

Mono Compiler Question: What Happens to EXE Files Created?

I'm still trying to understand compilers here and how they work, and C# is explained as a compiled language. When you run the compiler Jeremy (the instructor) mentions that a .exe file is created for you to then run the program with...however what I'm curious about is how permanent is that .exe file...meaning after you exit your program and exit the command prompt do your .exe compiled files remain until over-written by changes that you make to the program & re-compile the program? Or do the .exe files vanish after you exit (aka they're temporary files for use while you're running the program)?

Does the answer potentially change when working in C# with a different type of compiler? Or do all C# compilers behave the same in regards to .exe files?

1 Answer

Steven Parker
Steven Parker
229,771 Points
Steven Parker
Steven Parker
229,771 Points

:point_right: Compiled output files are always permanent.

Generally, on any system, the compiled output file (".exe" on Windows) is as permanent as any other type of file. Of course, if you don't move or copy it, it will be overwritten if you compile again.