What is the difference between a libraries and frameworks?

In iOS development, both libraries and frameworks serve as reusable collections of code and resources. However, they differ in their structure, usage, and integration methods:

• Library:

• • • A library is a collection of precompiled functions and routines that can be used by applications. It typically consists of compiled binary files (e.g., static libraries with a .a extension or dynamic libraries with a .dylib extension).
    • Libraries are linked directly into the application’s executable at compile time, and their code becomes part of the final binary.
    • Libraries do not impose a specific architectural structure or coding paradigm on the application using them.
    • Examples of libraries include SQLite for database operations, OpenSSL for encryption, and Alamofire for networking.

• Framework:

• • A framework is a more structured and encapsulated collection of code, resources, and headers that define a specific architecture or design pattern. It often includes both compiled binary files and source code.
  • Frameworks encapsulate reusable functionalities and provide a clear interface for interacting with them. They typically follow a modular design and may include multiple components or modules.
  • Frameworks are integrated into applications at compile time, but they remain separate entities and are loaded dynamically at runtime.
  • Frameworks can enforce certain design patterns or architectural guidelines, making them more opinionated than libraries.
  • Examples of frameworks include UIKit for building user interfaces, CoreData for data management, and SwiftUI for declarative UI construction.

While both libraries and frameworks offer reusable code and resources, frameworks provide a more structured and opinionated approach to application development, encapsulating functionalities within a defined architecture or design pattern.