A compiler is a program that translates code written in a high-level programming language into machine code (binary code) that can be executed directly by the computer’s CPU. Languages like C and C++ are typically compiled.

Key Characteristics:

• Execution: Translates the entire code into machine code before execution.
• Error Handling: Errors are detected at compile-time, which can help catch issues before the program runs.
• Performance: Compiled code generally runs faster than interpreted code because it is already translated into machine code.
• Portability: Compiled code is less portable because it is specific to the target platform’s architecture.

Example: When you compile a C program, the compiler translates the source code into an executable file.

#include <stdio.h>

int main() {
    printf("Hello, World!\n");
    return 0;
}

Major Differences

Translation Process:

• Interpreter: Translates and executes code line-by-line at runtime.
• Compiler: Translates the entire code into machine code before execution.

Execution Speed:

• Interpreter: Generally slower due to on-the-fly translation.
• Compiler: Generally faster because the code is pre-translated into machine code.

Error Detection:

• Interpreter: Errors are detected at runtime.
• Compiler: Errors are detected at compile-time.

Portability:

• Interpreter: More portable as the interpreter handles platform-specific details.
• Compiler_: Less portable as the compiled code is specific to the target platform.

Summary

Interpreter: Executes code line-by-line, providing immediate feedback and better portability but generally slower performance. Compiler: Translates code into machine code before execution, offering faster performance and early error detection but less portability.

Both interpreters and compilers have their own advantages and are chosen based on the specific requirements of the programming language and the application.