LLVM Code Generation: A deep dive into compiler backend development

Explore the world of code generation with the LLVM infrastructure, and learn how to extend existing backends or develop your own

Key FeaturesUnderstand the steps involved in generating assembly code from LLVM IRLearn the key constructs needed to leverage LLVM for your hardware or backendStrengthen your understanding with targeted exercises and practical examples in every chapterPurchase of the print or Kindle book includes a free PDF eBookBook Description

The LLVM infrastructure is a popular compiler ecosystem widely used in the tech industry and academia. This technology is crucial for both experienced and aspiring compiler developers looking to make an impact in the field. Written by Quentin Colombet, a veteran LLVM contributor and architect of the GlobalISel framework, this book provides a primer on the main aspects of LLVM, with an emphasis on its backend infrastructure; that is, everything needed to transform the intermediate representation (IR) produced by frontends like Clang into assembly code and object files.

You’ll learn how to write an optimizing code generator for a toy backend in LLVM. The chapters will guide you step by step through building this backend while exploring key concepts, such as the ABI, cost model, and register allocation. You’ll also find out how to express these concepts using LLVM’s existing infrastructure and how established backends address these challenges. Furthermore, the book features code snippets that demonstrate the actual APIs.

By the end of this book, you’ll have gained a deeper understanding of LLVM. The concepts presented are expected to remain stable across different LLVM versions, making this book a reliable quick reference guide for understanding LLVM.

What you will learnUnderstand essential compiler concepts, such as SSA, dominance, and ABIBuild and extend LLVM backends for creating custom compiler featuresOptimize code by manipulating LLVM’s Intermediate RepresentationContribute effectively to LLVM open-source projects and developmentDevelop debugging skills for LLVM optimizations and passesGrasp how encoding and (dis)assembling work in the context of compilersUtilize LLVM’s TableGen DSL for creating custom compiler modelsWho this book is for

This book is for both beginners to LLVM and experienced LLVM developers. If you’re new to LLVM, it offers a clear, approachable guide to compiler backends, starting with foundational concepts. For seasoned LLVM developers, it dives into less-documented areas such as TableGen, MachineIR, and MC, enabling you to solve complex problems and expand your expertise. Whether you’re starting out or looking to deepen your knowledge, this book has something for you.

Table of ContentsBuilding LLVM and Understanding the Directory StructureContributing to LLVMCompiler Basics and How They Map to LLVM APIsWriting Your First OptimizationDealing with Pass ManagersTableGen – LLVM Swiss Army Knife for ModelingUnderstanding LLVM IRSurvey of the Existing PassesIntroducing Target-Specific ConstructsHands-On Debugging LLVM IR PassesLegacy Instruction Selection Framework – SelectionDAGGetting Started with the Machine Code LayerThe Machine Pass PipelineGetting Started with Instruction SelectionInstruction Selection: The IR Building PhaseInstruction Selection: The Legalization PhaseInstruction Selection: The Selection Phase and BeyondInstruction SchedulingRegister AllocationLowering of the Stack LayoutGetting Started with the Assembler

From the Publisher

How This Book Helps You?

LLVM Code Generation goes beyond teaching you how to write a compiler backend. It builds a foundation to help you understand the LLVM infrastructure as a whole. With this knowledge, you’ll be able to tackle aspects of LLVM well beyond the book’s scope.

Whether you’re new to compilers, new to LLVM, or already experienced, this book gives you what you need to work effectively with LLVM.

It covers:

Compiler concepts: Learn about the compiler constructs like the SSA form and the CFG representation or the concept of legality and profitability to get started or to deepen your understanding of code generation.LLVM infrastructure: Master the pass managers, the different TableGen backends, and so on to get the most out of the existing infrastructure.Debugging: Use LLVM’s logging, verifiers, and APIs in a debugger to boost productivity.Contributing to LLVM: Get practical guidance on making meaningful open-source contributions and engaging with the community.

Key Takeaways

Publisher ‏ : ‎ Packt Publishing
Publication date ‏ : ‎ May 23, 2025
Language ‏ : ‎ English
Print length ‏ : ‎ 608 pages
ISBN-10 ‏ : ‎ 1837637784
ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 978-1837637782
Item Weight ‏ : ‎ 2.81 pounds
Dimensions ‏ : ‎ 1.39 x 7.5 x 9.25 inches