zstd, short for Zstandard, is a fast lossless compression algorithm, targeting real-time compression scenarios
at zlib-level and better compression ratios. The zstd compression library provides in-memory compression and
decompression functions. The library supports compression levels from 1 up to ZSTD_maxCLevel() which is 22.
Levels >= 20, labeled `--ultra`, should be used with caution, as they require more memory.
Compression can be done in:
- a single step (described as Simple API)
- a single step, reusing a context (described as Explicit memory management)
- unbounded multiple steps (described as Streaming compression)
The compression ratio achievable on small data can be highly improved using compression with a dictionary in:
- a single step (described as Simple dictionary API)
- a single step, reusing a dictionary (described as Fast dictionary API)
Advanced experimental functions can be accessed using #define ZSTD_STATIC_LINKING_ONLY before including zstd.h.
These APIs shall never be used with a dynamic library.
They are not "stable", their definition may change in the future. Only static linking is allowed.
unsigned ZSTD_versionNumber(void); /**< library version number; to be used when checking dll version */
size_t ZSTD_compress( void* dst, size_t dstCapacity,
const void* src, size_t srcSize,
int compressionLevel);
Compresses `src` content as a single zstd compressed frame into already allocated `dst`.
Hint : compression runs faster if `dstCapacity` >= `ZSTD_compressBound(srcSize)`.
@return : compressed size written into `dst` (<= `dstCapacity),
or an error code if it fails (which can be tested using ZSTD_isError()).
size_t ZSTD_decompress( void* dst, size_t dstCapacity,
const void* src, size_t compressedSize);
`compressedSize` : must be the _exact_ size of some number of compressed and/or skippable frames.
`dstCapacity` is an upper bound of originalSize.
If user cannot imply a maximum upper bound, it's better to use streaming mode to decompress data.
@return : the number of bytes decompressed into `dst` (<= `dstCapacity`),
or an errorCode if it fails (which can be tested using ZSTD_isError()).
unsigned long long ZSTD_getDecompressedSize(const void* src, size_t srcSize);NOTE: This function is planned to be obsolete, in favour of ZSTD_getFrameContentSize. ZSTD_getFrameContentSize functions the same way, returning the decompressed size of a single frame, but distinguishes empty frames from frames with an unknown size, or errors. Additionally, ZSTD_findDecompressedSize can be used instead. It can handle multiple concatenated frames in one buffer, and so is more general. As a result however, it requires more computation and entire frames to be passed to it, as opposed to ZSTD_getFrameContentSize which requires only a single frame's header. 'src' is the start of a zstd compressed frame. @return : content size to be decompressed, as a 64-bits value _if known_, 0 otherwise. note 1 : decompressed size is an optional field, that may not be present, especially in streaming mode. When `return==0`, data to decompress could be any size. In which case, it's necessary to use streaming mode to decompress data. Optionally, application can still use ZSTD_decompress() while relying on implied limits. (For example, data may be necessarily cut into blocks <= 16 KB). note 2 : decompressed size is always present when compression is done with ZSTD_compress() note 3 : decompressed size can be very large (64-bits value), potentially larger than what local system can handle as a single memory segment. In which case, it's necessary to use streaming mode to decompress data. note 4 : If source is untrusted, decompressed size could be wrong or intentionally modified. Always ensure result fits within application's authorized limits. Each application can set its own limits. note 5 : when `return==0`, if precise failure cause is needed, use ZSTD_getFrameParams() to know more.
int ZSTD_maxCLevel(void);/*!< maximum compression level available */ size_t ZSTD_compressBound(size_t srcSize); /*!< maximum compressed size in worst case scenario */ unsigned ZSTD_isError(size_t code); /*!< tells if a `size_t` function result is an error code */ const char* ZSTD_getErrorName(size_t code); /*!< provides readable string from an error code */
When compressing many times, it is recommended to allocate a context just once, and re-use it for each successive compression operation. This will make workload friendlier for system's memory. Use one context per thread for parallel execution in multi-threaded environments.
typedef struct ZSTD_CCtx_s ZSTD_CCtx; ZSTD_CCtx* ZSTD_createCCtx(void); size_t ZSTD_freeCCtx(ZSTD_CCtx* cctx);
size_t ZSTD_compressCCtx(ZSTD_CCtx* ctx, void* dst, size_t dstCapacity, const void* src, size_t srcSize, int compressionLevel);Same as ZSTD_compress(), requires an allocated ZSTD_CCtx (see ZSTD_createCCtx()).
When decompressing many times, it is recommended to allocate a context just once, and re-use it for each successive compression operation. This will make workload friendlier for system's memory. Use one context per thread for parallel execution in multi-threaded environments.
typedef struct ZSTD_DCtx_s ZSTD_DCtx; ZSTD_DCtx* ZSTD_createDCtx(void); size_t ZSTD_freeDCtx(ZSTD_DCtx* dctx);
size_t ZSTD_decompressDCtx(ZSTD_DCtx* ctx, void* dst, size_t dstCapacity, const void* src, size_t srcSize);Same as ZSTD_decompress(), requires an allocated ZSTD_DCtx (see ZSTD_createDCtx()).
size_t ZSTD_compress_usingDict(ZSTD_CCtx* ctx,
void* dst, size_t dstCapacity,
const void* src, size_t srcSize,
const void* dict,size_t dictSize,
int compressionLevel);
Compression using a predefined Dictionary (see dictBuilder/zdict.h).
Note : This function loads the dictionary, resulting in significant startup delay.
Note : When `dict == NULL || dictSize < 8` no dictionary is used.
size_t ZSTD_decompress_usingDict(ZSTD_DCtx* dctx,
void* dst, size_t dstCapacity,
const void* src, size_t srcSize,
const void* dict,size_t dictSize);
Decompression using a predefined Dictionary (see dictBuilder/zdict.h).
Dictionary must be identical to the one used during compression.
Note : This function loads the dictionary, resulting in significant startup delay.
Note : When `dict == NULL || dictSize < 8` no dictionary is used.
ZSTD_CDict* ZSTD_createCDict(const void* dictBuffer, size_t dictSize, int compressionLevel);When compressing multiple messages / blocks with the same dictionary, it's recommended to load it just once. ZSTD_createCDict() will create a digested dictionary, ready to start future compression operations without startup delay. ZSTD_CDict can be created once and used by multiple threads concurrently, as its usage is read-only. `dictBuffer` can be released after ZSTD_CDict creation, as its content is copied within CDict
size_t ZSTD_freeCDict(ZSTD_CDict* CDict);Function frees memory allocated by ZSTD_createCDict().
size_t ZSTD_compress_usingCDict(ZSTD_CCtx* cctx,
void* dst, size_t dstCapacity,
const void* src, size_t srcSize,
const ZSTD_CDict* cdict);
Compression using a digested Dictionary.
Faster startup than ZSTD_compress_usingDict(), recommended when same dictionary is used multiple times.
Note that compression level is decided during dictionary creation.
ZSTD_DDict* ZSTD_createDDict(const void* dictBuffer, size_t dictSize);Create a digested dictionary, ready to start decompression operation without startup delay. dictBuffer can be released after DDict creation, as its content is copied inside DDict
size_t ZSTD_freeDDict(ZSTD_DDict* ddict);Function frees memory allocated with ZSTD_createDDict()
size_t ZSTD_decompress_usingDDict(ZSTD_DCtx* dctx,
void* dst, size_t dstCapacity,
const void* src, size_t srcSize,
const ZSTD_DDict* ddict);
Decompression using a digested Dictionary.
Faster startup than ZSTD_decompress_usingDict(), recommended when same dictionary is used multiple times.
typedef struct ZSTD_inBuffer_s {
const void* src; /**< start of input buffer */
size_t size; /**< size of input buffer */
size_t pos; /**< position where reading stopped. Will be updated. Necessarily 0 <= pos <= size */
} ZSTD_inBuffer;
typedef struct ZSTD_outBuffer_s {
void* dst; /**< start of output buffer */
size_t size; /**< size of output buffer */
size_t pos; /**< position where writing stopped. Will be updated. Necessarily 0 <= pos <= size */
} ZSTD_outBuffer;
A ZSTD_CStream object is required to track streaming operation.
Use ZSTD_createCStream() and ZSTD_freeCStream() to create/release resources.
ZSTD_CStream objects can be reused multiple times on consecutive compression operations.
It is recommended to re-use ZSTD_CStream in situations where many streaming operations will be achieved consecutively,
since it will play nicer with system's memory, by re-using already allocated memory.
Use one separate ZSTD_CStream per thread for parallel execution.
Start a new compression by initializing ZSTD_CStream.
Use ZSTD_initCStream() to start a new compression operation.
Use ZSTD_initCStream_usingDict() or ZSTD_initCStream_usingCDict() for a compression which requires a dictionary (experimental section)
Use ZSTD_compressStream() repetitively to consume input stream.
The function will automatically update both `pos` fields.
Note that it may not consume the entire input, in which case `pos < size`,
and it's up to the caller to present again remaining data.
@return : a size hint, preferred nb of bytes to use as input for next function call
or an error code, which can be tested using ZSTD_isError().
Note 1 : it's just a hint, to help latency a little, any other value will work fine.
Note 2 : size hint is guaranteed to be <= ZSTD_CStreamInSize()
At any moment, it's possible to flush whatever data remains within internal buffer, using ZSTD_flushStream().
`output->pos` will be updated.
Note that some content might still be left within internal buffer if `output->size` is too small.
@return : nb of bytes still present within internal buffer (0 if it's empty)
or an error code, which can be tested using ZSTD_isError().
ZSTD_endStream() instructs to finish a frame.
It will perform a flush and write frame epilogue.
The epilogue is required for decoders to consider a frame completed.
Similar to ZSTD_flushStream(), it may not be able to flush the full content if `output->size` is too small.
In which case, call again ZSTD_endStream() to complete the flush.
@return : nb of bytes still present within internal buffer (0 if it's empty, hence compression completed)
or an error code, which can be tested using ZSTD_isError().
ZSTD_CStream* ZSTD_createCStream(void); size_t ZSTD_freeCStream(ZSTD_CStream* zcs);
size_t ZSTD_initCStream(ZSTD_CStream* zcs, int compressionLevel); size_t ZSTD_compressStream(ZSTD_CStream* zcs, ZSTD_outBuffer* output, ZSTD_inBuffer* input); size_t ZSTD_flushStream(ZSTD_CStream* zcs, ZSTD_outBuffer* output); size_t ZSTD_endStream(ZSTD_CStream* zcs, ZSTD_outBuffer* output);
size_t ZSTD_CStreamInSize(void); /**< recommended size for input buffer */
size_t ZSTD_CStreamOutSize(void); /**< recommended size for output buffer. Guarantee to successfully flush at least one complete compressed block in all circumstances. */
A ZSTD_DStream object is required to track streaming operations.
Use ZSTD_createDStream() and ZSTD_freeDStream() to create/release resources.
ZSTD_DStream objects can be re-used multiple times.
Use ZSTD_initDStream() to start a new decompression operation,
or ZSTD_initDStream_usingDict() if decompression requires a dictionary.
@return : recommended first input size
Use ZSTD_decompressStream() repetitively to consume your input.
The function will update both `pos` fields.
If `input.pos < input.size`, some input has not been consumed.
It's up to the caller to present again remaining data.
If `output.pos < output.size`, decoder has flushed everything it could.
@return : 0 when a frame is completely decoded and fully flushed,
an error code, which can be tested using ZSTD_isError(),
any other value > 0, which means there is still some decoding to do to complete current frame.
The return value is a suggested next input size (a hint to improve latency) that will never load more than the current frame.
ZSTD_DStream* ZSTD_createDStream(void); size_t ZSTD_freeDStream(ZSTD_DStream* zds);
size_t ZSTD_initDStream(ZSTD_DStream* zds); size_t ZSTD_decompressStream(ZSTD_DStream* zds, ZSTD_outBuffer* output, ZSTD_inBuffer* input);
size_t ZSTD_DStreamInSize(void); /*!< recommended size for input buffer */
size_t ZSTD_DStreamOutSize(void); /*!< recommended size for output buffer. Guarantee to successfully flush at least one complete block in all circumstances. */
The definitions in this section are considered experimental. They should never be used with a dynamic library, as they may change in the future. They are provided for advanced usages. Use them only in association with static linking.
typedef enum { ZSTD_fast, ZSTD_dfast, ZSTD_greedy, ZSTD_lazy, ZSTD_lazy2, ZSTD_btlazy2, ZSTD_btopt, ZSTD_btopt2 } ZSTD_strategy; /* from faster to stronger */
typedef struct {
unsigned windowLog; /**< largest match distance : larger == more compression, more memory needed during decompression */
unsigned chainLog; /**< fully searched segment : larger == more compression, slower, more memory (useless for fast) */
unsigned hashLog; /**< dispatch table : larger == faster, more memory */
unsigned searchLog; /**< nb of searches : larger == more compression, slower */
unsigned searchLength; /**< match length searched : larger == faster decompression, sometimes less compression */
unsigned targetLength; /**< acceptable match size for optimal parser (only) : larger == more compression, slower */
ZSTD_strategy strategy;
} ZSTD_compressionParameters;
typedef struct {
unsigned contentSizeFlag; /**< 1: content size will be in frame header (when known) */
unsigned checksumFlag; /**< 1: generate a 32-bits checksum at end of frame, for error detection */
unsigned noDictIDFlag; /**< 1: no dictID will be saved into frame header (if dictionary compression) */
} ZSTD_frameParameters;
typedef struct {
ZSTD_compressionParameters cParams;
ZSTD_frameParameters fParams;
} ZSTD_parameters;
typedef void* (*ZSTD_allocFunction) (void* opaque, size_t size);
typedef void (*ZSTD_freeFunction) (void* opaque, void* address);
typedef struct { ZSTD_allocFunction customAlloc; ZSTD_freeFunction customFree; void* opaque; } ZSTD_customMem;
size_t ZSTD_findFrameCompressedSize(const void* src, size_t srcSize);`src` should point to the start of a ZSTD encoded frame or skippable frame `srcSize` must be at least as large as the frame @return : the compressed size of the frame pointed to by `src`, suitable to pass to `ZSTD_decompress` or similar, or an error code if given invalid input.
unsigned long long ZSTD_getFrameContentSize(const void *src, size_t srcSize);`src` should point to the start of a ZSTD encoded frame `srcSize` must be at least as large as the frame header. A value greater than or equal to `ZSTD_frameHeaderSize_max` is guaranteed to be large enough in all cases. @return : decompressed size of the frame pointed to be `src` if known, otherwise - ZSTD_CONTENTSIZE_UNKNOWN if the size cannot be determined - ZSTD_CONTENTSIZE_ERROR if an error occurred (e.g. invalid magic number, srcSize too small)
unsigned long long ZSTD_findDecompressedSize(const void* src, size_t srcSize);`src` should point the start of a series of ZSTD encoded and/or skippable frames `srcSize` must be the _exact_ size of this series (i.e. there should be a frame boundary exactly `srcSize` bytes after `src`) @return : the decompressed size of all data in the contained frames, as a 64-bit value _if known_ - if the decompressed size cannot be determined: ZSTD_CONTENTSIZE_UNKNOWN - if an error occurred: ZSTD_CONTENTSIZE_ERROR note 1 : decompressed size is an optional field, that may not be present, especially in streaming mode. When `return==ZSTD_CONTENTSIZE_UNKNOWN`, data to decompress could be any size. In which case, it's necessary to use streaming mode to decompress data. Optionally, application can still use ZSTD_decompress() while relying on implied limits. (For example, data may be necessarily cut into blocks <= 16 KB). note 2 : decompressed size is always present when compression is done with ZSTD_compress() note 3 : decompressed size can be very large (64-bits value), potentially larger than what local system can handle as a single memory segment. In which case, it's necessary to use streaming mode to decompress data. note 4 : If source is untrusted, decompressed size could be wrong or intentionally modified. Always ensure result fits within application's authorized limits. Each application can set its own limits. note 5 : ZSTD_findDecompressedSize handles multiple frames, and so it must traverse the input to read each contained frame header. This is efficient as most of the data is skipped, however it does mean that all frame data must be present and valid.
size_t ZSTD_estimateCCtxSize(ZSTD_compressionParameters cParams);Gives the amount of memory allocated for a ZSTD_CCtx given a set of compression parameters. `frameContentSize` is an optional parameter, provide `0` if unknown
ZSTD_CCtx* ZSTD_createCCtx_advanced(ZSTD_customMem customMem);Create a ZSTD compression context using external alloc and free functions
size_t ZSTD_sizeof_CCtx(const ZSTD_CCtx* cctx);Gives the amount of memory used by a given ZSTD_CCtx
typedef enum {
ZSTD_p_forceWindow, /* Force back-references to remain < windowSize, even when referencing Dictionary content (default:0) */
ZSTD_p_forceRawDict /* Force loading dictionary in "content-only" mode (no header analysis) */
} ZSTD_CCtxParameter;
size_t ZSTD_setCCtxParameter(ZSTD_CCtx* cctx, ZSTD_CCtxParameter param, unsigned value);Set advanced parameters, selected through enum ZSTD_CCtxParameter @result : 0, or an error code (which can be tested with ZSTD_isError())
ZSTD_CDict* ZSTD_createCDict_byReference(const void* dictBuffer, size_t dictSize, int compressionLevel);Create a digested dictionary for compression Dictionary content is simply referenced, and therefore stays in dictBuffer. It is important that dictBuffer outlives CDict, it must remain read accessible throughout the lifetime of CDict
ZSTD_CDict* ZSTD_createCDict_advanced(const void* dict, size_t dictSize, unsigned byReference,
ZSTD_parameters params, ZSTD_customMem customMem);
Create a ZSTD_CDict using external alloc and free, and customized compression parameters
size_t ZSTD_sizeof_CDict(const ZSTD_CDict* cdict);Gives the amount of memory used by a given ZSTD_sizeof_CDict
ZSTD_compressionParameters ZSTD_getCParams(int compressionLevel, unsigned long long estimatedSrcSize, size_t dictSize);@return ZSTD_compressionParameters structure for a selected compression level and estimated srcSize. `estimatedSrcSize` value is optional, select 0 if not known
ZSTD_parameters ZSTD_getParams(int compressionLevel, unsigned long long estimatedSrcSize, size_t dictSize);same as ZSTD_getCParams(), but @return a full `ZSTD_parameters` object instead of sub-component `ZSTD_compressionParameters`. All fields of `ZSTD_frameParameters` are set to default (0)
size_t ZSTD_checkCParams(ZSTD_compressionParameters params);Ensure param values remain within authorized range
ZSTD_compressionParameters ZSTD_adjustCParams(ZSTD_compressionParameters cPar, unsigned long long srcSize, size_t dictSize);optimize params for a given `srcSize` and `dictSize`. both values are optional, select `0` if unknown.
size_t ZSTD_compress_advanced (ZSTD_CCtx* ctx,
void* dst, size_t dstCapacity,
const void* src, size_t srcSize,
const void* dict,size_t dictSize,
ZSTD_parameters params);
Same as ZSTD_compress_usingDict(), with fine-tune control of each compression parameter
unsigned ZSTD_isFrame(const void* buffer, size_t size);Tells if the content of `buffer` starts with a valid Frame Identifier. Note : Frame Identifier is 4 bytes. If `size < 4`, @return will always be 0. Note 2 : Legacy Frame Identifiers are considered valid only if Legacy Support is enabled. Note 3 : Skippable Frame Identifiers are considered valid.
size_t ZSTD_estimateDCtxSize(void);Gives the potential amount of memory allocated to create a ZSTD_DCtx
ZSTD_DCtx* ZSTD_createDCtx_advanced(ZSTD_customMem customMem);Create a ZSTD decompression context using external alloc and free functions
size_t ZSTD_sizeof_DCtx(const ZSTD_DCtx* dctx);Gives the amount of memory used by a given ZSTD_DCtx
ZSTD_DDict* ZSTD_createDDict_byReference(const void* dictBuffer, size_t dictSize);Create a digested dictionary, ready to start decompression operation without startup delay. Dictionary content is simply referenced, and therefore stays in dictBuffer. It is important that dictBuffer outlives DDict, it must remain read accessible throughout the lifetime of DDict
ZSTD_DDict* ZSTD_createDDict_advanced(const void* dict, size_t dictSize,
unsigned byReference, ZSTD_customMem customMem);
Create a ZSTD_DDict using external alloc and free, optionally by reference
size_t ZSTD_sizeof_DDict(const ZSTD_DDict* ddict);Gives the amount of memory used by a given ZSTD_DDict
unsigned ZSTD_getDictID_fromDict(const void* dict, size_t dictSize);Provides the dictID stored within dictionary. if @return == 0, the dictionary is not conformant with Zstandard specification. It can still be loaded, but as a content-only dictionary.
unsigned ZSTD_getDictID_fromDDict(const ZSTD_DDict* ddict);Provides the dictID of the dictionary loaded into `ddict`. If @return == 0, the dictionary is not conformant to Zstandard specification, or empty. Non-conformant dictionaries can still be loaded, but as content-only dictionaries.
unsigned ZSTD_getDictID_fromFrame(const void* src, size_t srcSize);Provides the dictID required to decompressed the frame stored within `src`. If @return == 0, the dictID could not be decoded. This could for one of the following reasons : - The frame does not require a dictionary to be decoded (most common case). - The frame was built with dictID intentionally removed. Whatever dictionary is necessary is a hidden information. Note : this use case also happens when using a non-conformant dictionary. - `srcSize` is too small, and as a result, the frame header could not be decoded (only possible if `srcSize < ZSTD_FRAMEHEADERSIZE_MAX`). - This is not a Zstandard frame. When identifying the exact failure cause, it's possible to used ZSTD_getFrameParams(), which will provide a more precise error code.
ZSTD_CStream* ZSTD_createCStream_advanced(ZSTD_customMem customMem); size_t ZSTD_sizeof_CStream(const ZSTD_CStream* zcs);/**< size of CStream is variable, depending primarily on compression level */ size_t ZSTD_initCStream_srcSize(ZSTD_CStream* zcs, int compressionLevel, unsigned long long pledgedSrcSize); /**< pledgedSrcSize must be correct, a size of 0 means unknown. for a frame size of 0 use initCStream_advanced */ size_t ZSTD_initCStream_usingDict(ZSTD_CStream* zcs, const void* dict, size_t dictSize, int compressionLevel); /**< note: a dict will not be used if dict == NULL or dictSize < 8 */ size_t ZSTD_initCStream_advanced(ZSTD_CStream* zcs, const void* dict, size_t dictSize, ZSTD_parameters params, unsigned long long pledgedSrcSize); /**< pledgedSrcSize is optional and can be 0 (meaning unknown). note: if the contentSizeFlag is set, pledgedSrcSize == 0 means the source size is actually 0 */ size_t ZSTD_initCStream_usingCDict(ZSTD_CStream* zcs, const ZSTD_CDict* cdict); /**< note : cdict will just be referenced, and must outlive compression session */
size_t ZSTD_resetCStream(ZSTD_CStream* zcs, unsigned long long pledgedSrcSize);start a new compression job, using same parameters from previous job. This is typically useful to skip dictionary loading stage, since it will re-use it in-place.. Note that zcs must be init at least once before using ZSTD_resetCStream(). pledgedSrcSize==0 means "srcSize unknown". If pledgedSrcSize > 0, its value must be correct, as it will be written in header, and controlled at the end. @return : 0, or an error code (which can be tested using ZSTD_isError())
typedef enum { DStream_p_maxWindowSize } ZSTD_DStreamParameter_e;
ZSTD_DStream* ZSTD_createDStream_advanced(ZSTD_customMem customMem);
size_t ZSTD_initDStream_usingDict(ZSTD_DStream* zds, const void* dict, size_t dictSize); /**< note: a dict will not be used if dict == NULL or dictSize < 8 */
size_t ZSTD_setDStreamParameter(ZSTD_DStream* zds, ZSTD_DStreamParameter_e paramType, unsigned paramValue);
size_t ZSTD_initDStream_usingDDict(ZSTD_DStream* zds, const ZSTD_DDict* ddict); /**< note : ddict will just be referenced, and must outlive decompression session */
size_t ZSTD_resetDStream(ZSTD_DStream* zds); /**< re-use decompression parameters from previous init; saves dictionary loading */
size_t ZSTD_sizeof_DStream(const ZSTD_DStream* zds);
This is an advanced API, giving full control over buffer management, for users which need direct control over memory. But it's also a complex one, with many restrictions (documented below). Prefer using normal streaming API for an easier experience
A ZSTD_CCtx object is required to track streaming operations.
Use ZSTD_createCCtx() / ZSTD_freeCCtx() to manage resource.
ZSTD_CCtx object can be re-used multiple times within successive compression operations.
Start by initializing a context.
Use ZSTD_compressBegin(), or ZSTD_compressBegin_usingDict() for dictionary compression,
or ZSTD_compressBegin_advanced(), for finer parameter control.
It's also possible to duplicate a reference context which has already been initialized, using ZSTD_copyCCtx()
Then, consume your input using ZSTD_compressContinue().
There are some important considerations to keep in mind when using this advanced function :
- ZSTD_compressContinue() has no internal buffer. It uses externally provided buffer only.
- Interface is synchronous : input is consumed entirely and produce 1+ (or more) compressed blocks.
- Caller must ensure there is enough space in `dst` to store compressed data under worst case scenario.
Worst case evaluation is provided by ZSTD_compressBound().
ZSTD_compressContinue() doesn't guarantee recover after a failed compression.
- ZSTD_compressContinue() presumes prior input ***is still accessible and unmodified*** (up to maximum distance size, see WindowLog).
It remembers all previous contiguous blocks, plus one separated memory segment (which can itself consists of multiple contiguous blocks)
- ZSTD_compressContinue() detects that prior input has been overwritten when `src` buffer overlaps.
In which case, it will "discard" the relevant memory section from its history.
Finish a frame with ZSTD_compressEnd(), which will write the last block(s) and optional checksum.
It's possible to use srcSize==0, in which case, it will write a final empty block to end the frame.
Without last block mark, frames will be considered unfinished (corrupted) by decoders.
`ZSTD_CCtx` object can be re-used (ZSTD_compressBegin()) to compress some new frame.
size_t ZSTD_compressBegin(ZSTD_CCtx* cctx, int compressionLevel); size_t ZSTD_compressBegin_usingDict(ZSTD_CCtx* cctx, const void* dict, size_t dictSize, int compressionLevel); size_t ZSTD_compressBegin_advanced(ZSTD_CCtx* cctx, const void* dict, size_t dictSize, ZSTD_parameters params, unsigned long long pledgedSrcSize);/**< pledgedSrcSize is optional and can be 0 (meaning unknown). note: if the contentSizeFlag is set, pledgedSrcSize == 0 means the source size is actually 0 */ size_t ZSTD_copyCCtx(ZSTD_CCtx* cctx, const ZSTD_CCtx* preparedCCtx, unsigned long long pledgedSrcSize); /**< note: if pledgedSrcSize can be 0, indicating unknown size. if it is non-zero, it must be accurate. for 0 size frames, use compressBegin_advanced */ size_t ZSTD_compressBegin_usingCDict(ZSTD_CCtx* cctx, const ZSTD_CDict* cdict, unsigned long long pledgedSrcSize); /**< note: fail if cdict==NULL. pledgedSrcSize can be 0, indicating unknown size. For 0 size frames, use compressBegin_advanced */ size_t ZSTD_compressContinue(ZSTD_CCtx* cctx, void* dst, size_t dstCapacity, const void* src, size_t srcSize); size_t ZSTD_compressEnd(ZSTD_CCtx* cctx, void* dst, size_t dstCapacity, const void* src, size_t srcSize);
A ZSTD_DCtx object is required to track streaming operations.
Use ZSTD_createDCtx() / ZSTD_freeDCtx() to manage it.
A ZSTD_DCtx object can be re-used multiple times.
First typical operation is to retrieve frame parameters, using ZSTD_getFrameParams().
It fills a ZSTD_frameParams structure which provide important information to correctly decode the frame,
such as the minimum rolling buffer size to allocate to decompress data (`windowSize`),
and the dictionary ID used.
(Note : content size is optional, it may not be present. 0 means : content size unknown).
Note that these values could be wrong, either because of data malformation, or because an attacker is spoofing deliberate false information.
As a consequence, check that values remain within valid application range, especially `windowSize`, before allocation.
Each application can set its own limit, depending on local restrictions. For extended interoperability, it is recommended to support at least 8 MB.
Frame parameters are extracted from the beginning of the compressed frame.
Data fragment must be large enough to ensure successful decoding, typically `ZSTD_frameHeaderSize_max` bytes.
@result : 0 : successful decoding, the `ZSTD_frameParams` structure is correctly filled.
>0 : `srcSize` is too small, please provide at least @result bytes on next attempt.
errorCode, which can be tested using ZSTD_isError().
Start decompression, with ZSTD_decompressBegin() or ZSTD_decompressBegin_usingDict().
Alternatively, you can copy a prepared context, using ZSTD_copyDCtx().
Then use ZSTD_nextSrcSizeToDecompress() and ZSTD_decompressContinue() alternatively.
ZSTD_nextSrcSizeToDecompress() tells how many bytes to provide as 'srcSize' to ZSTD_decompressContinue().
ZSTD_decompressContinue() requires this _exact_ amount of bytes, or it will fail.
@result of ZSTD_decompressContinue() is the number of bytes regenerated within 'dst' (necessarily <= dstCapacity).
It can be zero, which is not an error; it just means ZSTD_decompressContinue() has decoded some metadata item.
It can also be an error code, which can be tested with ZSTD_isError().
ZSTD_decompressContinue() needs previous data blocks during decompression, up to `windowSize`.
They should preferably be located contiguously, prior to current block.
Alternatively, a round buffer of sufficient size is also possible. Sufficient size is determined by frame parameters.
ZSTD_decompressContinue() is very sensitive to contiguity,
if 2 blocks don't follow each other, make sure that either the compressor breaks contiguity at the same place,
or that previous contiguous segment is large enough to properly handle maximum back-reference.
A frame is fully decoded when ZSTD_nextSrcSizeToDecompress() returns zero.
Context can then be reset to start a new decompression.
Note : it's possible to know if next input to present is a header or a block, using ZSTD_nextInputType().
This information is not required to properly decode a frame.
== Special case : skippable frames
Skippable frames allow integration of user-defined data into a flow of concatenated frames.
Skippable frames will be ignored (skipped) by a decompressor. The format of skippable frames is as follows :
a) Skippable frame ID - 4 Bytes, Little endian format, any value from 0x184D2A50 to 0x184D2A5F
b) Frame Size - 4 Bytes, Little endian format, unsigned 32-bits
c) Frame Content - any content (User Data) of length equal to Frame Size
For skippable frames ZSTD_decompressContinue() always returns 0.
For skippable frames ZSTD_getFrameParams() returns fparamsPtr->windowLog==0 what means that a frame is skippable.
Note : If fparamsPtr->frameContentSize==0, it is ambiguous: the frame might actually be a Zstd encoded frame with no content.
For purposes of decompression, it is valid in both cases to skip the frame using
ZSTD_findFrameCompressedSize to find its size in bytes.
It also returns Frame Size as fparamsPtr->frameContentSize.
typedef struct {
unsigned long long frameContentSize;
unsigned windowSize;
unsigned dictID;
unsigned checksumFlag;
} ZSTD_frameParams;
size_t ZSTD_getFrameParams(ZSTD_frameParams* fparamsPtr, const void* src, size_t srcSize);/**< doesn't consume input, see details below */ size_t ZSTD_decompressBegin(ZSTD_DCtx* dctx); size_t ZSTD_decompressBegin_usingDict(ZSTD_DCtx* dctx, const void* dict, size_t dictSize); void ZSTD_copyDCtx(ZSTD_DCtx* dctx, const ZSTD_DCtx* preparedDCtx); size_t ZSTD_nextSrcSizeToDecompress(ZSTD_DCtx* dctx); size_t ZSTD_decompressContinue(ZSTD_DCtx* dctx, void* dst, size_t dstCapacity, const void* src, size_t srcSize); typedef enum { ZSTDnit_frameHeader, ZSTDnit_blockHeader, ZSTDnit_block, ZSTDnit_lastBlock, ZSTDnit_checksum, ZSTDnit_skippableFrame } ZSTD_nextInputType_e; ZSTD_nextInputType_e ZSTD_nextInputType(ZSTD_DCtx* dctx);
Block functions produce and decode raw zstd blocks, without frame metadata.
Frame metadata cost is typically ~18 bytes, which can be non-negligible for very small blocks (< 100 bytes).
User will have to take in charge required information to regenerate data, such as compressed and content sizes.
A few rules to respect :
- Compressing and decompressing require a context structure
+ Use ZSTD_createCCtx() and ZSTD_createDCtx()
- It is necessary to init context before starting
+ compression : ZSTD_compressBegin()
+ decompression : ZSTD_decompressBegin()
+ variants _usingDict() are also allowed
+ copyCCtx() and copyDCtx() work too
- Block size is limited, it must be <= ZSTD_getBlockSizeMax()
+ If you need to compress more, cut data into multiple blocks
+ Consider using the regular ZSTD_compress() instead, as frame metadata costs become negligible when source size is large.
- When a block is considered not compressible enough, ZSTD_compressBlock() result will be zero.
In which case, nothing is produced into `dst`.
+ User must test for such outcome and deal directly with uncompressed data
+ ZSTD_decompressBlock() doesn't accept uncompressed data as input !!!
+ In case of multiple successive blocks, decoder must be informed of uncompressed block existence to follow proper history.
Use ZSTD_insertBlock() in such a case.
size_t ZSTD_getBlockSizeMax(ZSTD_CCtx* cctx); size_t ZSTD_compressBlock (ZSTD_CCtx* cctx, void* dst, size_t dstCapacity, const void* src, size_t srcSize); size_t ZSTD_decompressBlock(ZSTD_DCtx* dctx, void* dst, size_t dstCapacity, const void* src, size_t srcSize); size_t ZSTD_insertBlock(ZSTD_DCtx* dctx, const void* blockStart, size_t blockSize);/**< insert block into `dctx` history. Useful for uncompressed blocks */