rustlang error: linker `link.exe` not found

The error message you encountered, "linker link.exe not found," typically occurs when the Rust compiler cannot find the link.exe program, which is part of the Microsoft Visual Studio build tools. To resolve this issue, you need to ensure that the build tools are properly installed on your system.

Here are the steps you can follow to resolve the error:

  1. Install the Microsoft Visual Studio build tools:
  2. Visit the Visual Studio downloads page: https://visualstudio.microsoft.com/downloads/
  3. Scroll down to the "All downloads" section.
  4. Look for the "Tools for Visual Studio" category and click on "Build Tools for Visual Studio."
  5. Download the installer for the build tools.

  6. Run the installer and follow the on-screen instructions to install the build tools.

  7. Select the required components:

  8. During the installation process, you will be prompted to select the components to install.

  9. Make sure to select the "C++ build tools" component, as it includes the necessary link.exe program.

  10. Complete the installation:

  11. Once you have selected the required components, proceed with the installation.
  12. Wait for the installation to complete.

After following these steps, the link.exe program should be available, and you should no longer encounter the "linker link.exe not found" error when compiling your Rust code.

Please note that the exact steps may vary depending on your specific system configuration and the version of Visual Studio build tools you are installing. It is always a good idea to consult the official documentation or resources provided by the Rust community for the most up-to-date and accurate instructions.