What is the difference between a 'gem' and a 'native extension' in the context of gem native extensions?

Question

Grade: Education Subject: Support
What is the difference between a 'gem' and a 'native extension' in the context of gem native extensions?
Asked by:
104 Viewed 104 Answers

Answer (104)

Best Answer
(245)
A 'gem' is a standard Ruby library. A 'native extension' is a compiled binary that provides a specific functionality, often used for tasks like audio processing or networking. Native extensions are built specifically for the gem's intended use.