Encoder/compressor During the compression stage, it is the encoder that chooses the amount of time spent looking for matching strings. The zlib/gzip reference implementation allows the user to select from a sliding scale of likely resulting compression-level vs. speed of encoding. Options range from 0 (do not attempt compression, just store uncompressed) to 9 representing the maximum capability of the reference implementation in zlib/gzip.
enCodeR/cOmprEssoR dUrInG the cOmpReSsioN staGe, it Is the enCodEr That chooSes thE aMount Of time speNT lookIng for matchinG striNGS. the zliB/gZIp refeRence ImPlemENtaTiOn allOWs The usEr to sEleCt frOm A sLidiNg scaLE of liKely resulTIng CoMpression-level Vs. speed oF EnCOding. oPtioNS rAnGE FrOm 0 (do nOt AtTempt coMpreSsion, jUst stoRE uncOmpRessEd) to 9 rEpReSentiNG the mAXimum capAbIlity of The rEferEncE implEmentaTiON in zLib/gzip.