Technology Fundamentals
Compiler
Definition
A compiler is a special program that translates a program written in a high-level programming language (like C++ or Java) into a lower-level language (like machine code) that the computer's processor can execute directly.
Why It Matters
Compilation allows for the creation of highly optimized and fast executable files. The translation is done once, and the resulting program can be run many times without re-translation.
Contextual Example
When you build a C++ application, the C++ compiler takes all your source code files and translates them into a single executable file (like an `.exe` on Windows) that can be run.
Common Misunderstandings
- A compiler is different from an interpreter, which reads and executes code line-by-line without creating a separate executable file.
- Compiled languages often have better performance than interpreted languages, but the development cycle can be slower due to the compilation step.