Go `go get` vs. `go install`: What's the Difference?

Understanding the Distinctions between "go get" and "go install" in Go

In the realm of Go programming, the "go install" and "go get" commands serve distinct purposes for managing software packages. While both commands share the goal of installing packages, their functionality differs in important ways.

"go get" is a comprehensive command that typically performs a three-step process:

• Optional download: It retrieves the necessary source code for a package.
• Compilation: It converts the source code into an executable binary.
• Installation: It places the binary in a location where it can be accessed by the system.

"go install," on the other hand, focuses solely on compilation and installation. It omits the optional download step, assuming that the source code is already available locally. It then proceeds to compile the source code and install the resulting binary.

The existence of "go install" can be attributed to specific scenarios where it offers advantages:

• Local package development: When working on a new package or modifying an existing one locally, "go install" allows you to compile and install the modified version without first downloading the entire package. This enables efficient iteration during development.
• Selective downloading: "go get" requires downloading the entire package, even if you only need to make minor changes to a specific module. "go install" provides more flexibility by allowing you to build and install individual modules without the need for a full download.

In summary, "go get" is a versatile command that handles all aspects of package acquisition and installation, while "go install" focuses specifically on compilation and installation.

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