# Nix Import From Derivation: How It Works and When to Use It

DevFeed: [Nix Import From Derivation: How It Works and When to Use It](<https://devfeed.tech/articles/nix-ifd-a-ticking-time-bomb-in-your-build-pipeline-32453.md>)

Original publisher: [Read original article](<https://nixcademy.com/posts/what-is-ifd-ups-and-downs/>)

Author: Jacek Galowicz

Published: 2024-12-30T00:00:00Z

Content type: tutorial

Language: en

Sources: [Nixcademy Blog](<https://devfeed.tech/sources/nixcademy-blog.md>)

Topics: [Nix](<https://devfeed.tech/topics/nix.md>), [import](<https://devfeed.tech/topics/import.md>), [Development](<https://devfeed.tech/topics/development.md>)

Tags: [build](<https://devfeed.tech/tags/build.md>), [compilation](<https://devfeed.tech/tags/compilation.md>), [dependencies](<https://devfeed.tech/tags/dependencies.md>), [graph](<https://devfeed.tech/tags/graph.md>), [pipeline](<https://devfeed.tech/tags/pipeline.md>), [terminal](<https://devfeed.tech/tags/terminal.md>), [time](<https://devfeed.tech/tags/time.md>)

## AI overview

This tutorial explains Nix Import From Derivation (IFD), including how it differs from non-IFD builds and how Nix evaluates and realizes derivations. It discusses IFD's benefits for dependency management alongside its potential to slow build times, helping readers decide when to use it.

## Source excerpt

Nix's Import From Derivation (IFD) can speed up development but also cause slow builds. Learn how IFD works, its pros/cons, and when to use it effectively.