This article will explain why it happens to cause the undefined reference to pthread_create error in Linux as well as the most effective approaches to cope with it. Let’s read on for more details!

Why Does Your Code Return The Undefined Reference To Pthread_create Error?

There are 4 potential reasons that can trigger such a problem to occur in your coding. Let’s check out what they are!

• Reason #1: You are using Linux and GCC to compile a C program.

An error like undefined reference to thrd create might occur while building a C application with GCC on Linux using the command line. This problem happens while adopting threads.h, a companion to pthread.h, because of a file link error.

• Reason #2: There is no pthread header file

You can construct threads using pthread to serve many tasks simultaneously. It is also advisable to utilize pthread on an operation with several cores or processors to take the most advantage of it.

For those who wish to increase the speed of execution on such a system, implementing threads at the kernel level might be the one to put on your get-done list. It has to thank a number of functions the pthread.h header file offers so these ultimate features can serve you the most.

As a result, if you try to use a thread function in C like pthread_create without having the pthread.h file, a reference error like this will occur. Because pthread_create is one of the methods in pthread.h, this is the inevitable case you have to take as partially the risk of it.

Aside from the two main reasons you can also bump into this trouble as the consequence of these rations as follows:

• Reason #3: Adopting the incorrect compiler flag
• Reason #4: Your integrated development environment is missing pthread

How To Fix The Undefined Reference To Pthread_create Error?

Solution #1: Verify That Your Header Already Contain #Include “Pthread.H”. 

Besides, including -pthread as the application is being built is pretty much of a must to conduct as well.

Solution #2: Utilize The Correct Compiler Flag

When compiling source code, the incorrect compiler will result in an error, but the correct compiler will generate no problems.

The following command will build test-pthread.c without producing any issues, for instance, if the file’s name is test-pthread.c and it contains a pthread.h file.

Solution #3:  Include Pthread In The Linker Libraries In Your Integrated Development Environment.

You may get rid of the pthread reference problems by adding pthread to the linker libraries in your IDE.

If you are currently on eclipse, adding this parameter will be of great benefit to your programming. Navigate as follows:

• Step 1: properties >> C/C++Build >> Setting >> GCC C++ linker >> libraries.
• Step 2:  Adjoint the top with -pthread.

Conclusion

This instruction hopefully can help you out of the trouble caused by the undefined reference to pthread_create error. Don’t forget to leave a comment if you have any Linux concerns (how to install tar files, for example) not yet resolved. See you then!