Why Google Prefers Golang Over Rust

In everyday life, do you prefer powerful yet complicated solutions or simple yet effective ones? Google found itself seeking a simpler alternative to C, leading to the development of Golang. Meanwhile, Mozilla tackled a similar need, resulting in the creation of Rust. Both languages were developed to address specific problems, but for different use cases. This article explores the reasoning behind Google's preference for Golang over Rust, despite Rust's superior features and performance.

Memory Management and Use Cases

Rust is a programming language designed with memory safety and speed in mind. It offers powerful features and a robust type system, making it a compelling choice for those who prioritize these aspects. However, Golang, on the other hand, was developed with microservices in mind, focusing on simplicity, ease of use, and efficient deployment.

The choice between these two languages isn’t about preferring complexity over simplicity; rather, it’s about aligning the right tool with the right job. Rust is indeed more complex than Golang, but its depth and power make it suitable for certain projects. Golang, being simpler, is more accessible and easier to master, making it a popular choice for developing microservices and web services.

Languages in Use at Google

Google utilizes a variety of languages depending on the project requirements. Golang is used extensively in cases where microservices and speed are critical. For instance, Golang is preferred over Python in scenarios where speed and ease of deployment are paramount. It is not slower to write than Python and often outperforms it in Google’s environment.

C is used for projects that require the ultimate performance. Many C-based projects at Google are legacy systems that are too large to be rewritten. Rust, although newer at Google, is used to replace C in Android development and is likely being used in the base production image as well.

Google’s decision to use Rust and Golang is not a strict preference for any one language. Instead, it involves a process of selecting the most appropriate tool for each project based on its requirements. This flexibility allows for the best outcome and ensures that resources are used efficiently.

Google’s Approach to Memory Safety

At Google, C shares many of the same memory safety properties as Rust. Compiler warnings are raised for improper ownership, and all warnings are treated as errors. This ensures that memory safety is maintained, even when working with C. However, Rust has its advantages as well, including a lighter runtime and other unique features that enhance its performance and reliability.

Developers should focus on the right tool for the job, rather than prioritizing performance at the expense of usability and maintainability. While speed is crucial, over-optimization can lead to problems down the line. As Donald Knuth famously said, “Premature optimization is the root of all evil.”

Conclusion

Google’s choice between Golang and Rust reflects a deep understanding of the needs of modern development environments. While Rust offers unparalleled performance and safety, Golang’s simplicity and ease of use make it a more practical choice for many projects. Both languages have their strengths, and choosing the right one is essential for achieving the best results.

Keywords: Google, Golang, Rust