Software⏱️ 3 min read📅 2026-06-11

How to Fix: Bootstrap error while compiling GCC 4.8.0

GCC compilation error with bootstrap comparison failure. Get help with this issue.

Quick Answer: Try re-running configure and make with the --enable-bootstrap option to enable bootstrap mode.

The 'Bootstrap comparison failure!' error occurs when the bootstrap process fails to correctly identify dependencies required by GCC. This issue affects individuals attempting to compile and install GCC on their local systems using an older version of GCC as a bootstrap.

This error can be frustrating because it prevents users from successfully installing GCC, which is necessary for various development tasks. However, with a systematic approach to troubleshooting, the issue can be resolved.

💡 Why You Are Getting This Error

  • The primary reason for this error is the incompatibility between the bootstrap version of GCC and its dependencies. The newer GCC version may not be compatible with the older versions of GMP, MPC, or MPFR used as dependencies.
  • An alternative cause could be issues with the system's configuration or environment variables.

✅ Best Solutions to Fix It

Using a Different Bootstrap Version

  1. Step 1: Try using a different version of GCC that is compatible with the dependencies. For example, you can use GCC 4.7.0 instead of GCC 4.8.0.
  2. Step 2: Download and install the required dependencies for the chosen bootstrap version of GCC.
  3. Step 3: Update the script to reflect the new bootstrap version and dependencies.

Using the contrib/download_prerequisites Script

  1. Step 1: Use the contrib/download_prerequisites script to download mpfr-2.4.2, gmp-4.3.2, and mpc-0.8.1 instead of the newer versions.
  2. Step 2: Update the script to reflect the new dependencies.

🎯 Final Words

To resolve the 'Bootstrap comparison failure!' error, try using a different bootstrap version of GCC or using the contrib/download_prerequisites script to download compatible dependencies. If you encounter any further issues, consult the GCC documentation and seek assistance from the community or system administrators.

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