Compile a shell script (with examples)
The shc command is a generic shell script compiler that allows you to compile shell scripts into executable binaries. This can be useful for protecting your scripts from being easily viewable or modified.
Example 1: Compile a shell script
shc -f script
Motivation
You may want to compile a shell script to protect your code from being easily readable by others. Compiling the script into an executable binary adds an extra layer of security, as the binary can be executed but the source code cannot be easily viewed.
Explanation
-f script: Specifies the input shell script file to be compiled.
Example Output
Upon successful compilation, a new file named script.x will be generated. This file can be executed like any other binary file.
Example 2: Compile a shell script and specify an output binary file
shc -f script -o binary
Motivation
In some cases, you may want to specify a specific name for the compiled binary file. This can be useful for maintaining consistency or providing a more descriptive name.
Explanation
-f script: Specifies the input shell script file to be compiled.-o binary: Specifies the name of the output binary file.
Example Output
Upon successful compilation, a new file named binary will be generated. This file can be executed like any other binary file.
Example 3: Compile a shell script and set an expiration date for the executable
shc -f script -e dd/mm/yyyy
Motivation
You may want to limit the usage of the compiled binary file by setting an expiration date. This can be useful for time-limited or trial versions of software, or for scripts that need to be regularly updated.
Explanation
-f script: Specifies the input shell script file to be compiled.-e dd/mm/yyyy: Sets the expiration date for the compiled binary file. The date should be formatted as day/month/year.
Example Output
Upon successful compilation, a new file named script.x will be generated. If the current date is before the specified expiration date, the binary will execute normally. However, if the expiration date has passed, running the binary will display an error message indicating that the executable has expired.
Example 4: Compile a shell script and set a message to display upon expiration
shc -f script -e dd/mm/yyyy -m "Please contact your provider"
Motivation
When setting an expiration date for the compiled binary, it can be helpful to provide a message to the user explaining why the binary has expired and what steps they should take.
Explanation
-f script: Specifies the input shell script file to be compiled.-e dd/mm/yyyy: Sets the expiration date for the compiled binary file.-m "Please contact your provider": Sets the message to display when the executable has expired.
Example Output
Upon successful compilation, a new file named script.x will be generated. If the current date is before the specified expiration date, the binary will execute normally. However, if the expiration date has passed, running the binary will display the message “Please contact your provider” instead of executing the script. This can provide useful information to the user regarding the expiration and how to proceed.
