Meta Tech Podcast

60: Simplified Executable Deployment with DotSlash

Feb 16, 2024

Learn about DotSlash, a tool that simplifies executable deployment by combining a fast Rust program with a JSON manifest. Discover the differences between DotSlash and other deployment methods like LFS and buck2 run. Hear about where DotSlash is used at Meta and how it improves tool distribution.

40:40

Creator website

Episode guests

Andres

Michael

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Episode notes

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

DotSlash simplifies executable deployment by combining a fast Rust program with a JSON manifest for transparent distribution.

Efficient cache management is a key challenge for DotSlash adoption, requiring manual eviction strategies and potential future automatic solutions.

Deep dives

Dot Slash: Solving Executable Distribution Challenges

Dot Slash is a tool introduced in the Meta Tech podcast to address issues in distributing pre-built binaries efficiently. It allows for transparent running of executables without the need to check them into repositories individually. The tool focuses on streamlining the process of distributing executables by providing a single file approach rather than managing multiple platform-specific versions.

Introduction

3min

Exploring the Backgrounds and Roles of Two Guests at Meta

2min

Evolution and Efficiency of Dot Slash in Executable Deployment

22min

Integrating Storage Backends & Open-Sourcing with DotSlash

11min

Navigating Cash Eviction in Tool Distribution

2min

Enhancing Tool Distribution with DotSlash

2min

Distributing binaries and toolchains to developers is a pain but DotSlash makes it a breeze. Instead of committing large, platform-specific executables to your repository, DotSlash combines a fast Rust program with a JSON manifest prefixed with a #! to transparently fetch and execute the binary you need. Tune in to our interview with Andres and Michael to learn more.

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