What is the role of the compiler in inlining?

Can you explain what inlining is in programming?

Inlining is a compiler optimization technique where the compiler replaces a function call with the actual function code to improve performance.

What role does the compiler play in this process?

The compiler analyzes the code and decides whether to inline a function based on factors like function size and frequency of calls.

Are there any downsides to inlining?

Yes, inlining can increase the binary size and may lead to code bloat if overused, which can negatively impact performance.

How does the compiler determine if a function should be inlined?

The compiler uses heuristics, such as the function's complexity and how often it's called, to make inlining decisions.