Difference Between Native Compiler and Cross Compiler
Last Updated :
27 Sep, 2024
Compilers are essential tools in software development, helping to convert high-level programming languages into machine-readable code. Among various types of compilers, native and cross-compilers are commonly used for different purposes. This article explains the difference between a native compiler and a cross compiler, shedding light on their functions and use cases.
What is a Native Compiler?
Native compilers generate code for the same platform on which it runs. It converts high language into the computer's native language. For example, Turbo C or GCC compiler. if a compiler runs on a Windows machine and produces executable code for Windows, it is a native compiler. Native compilers are widely used because they can optimize code for the specific processor and operating system of the host machine, resulting in faster and more efficient code execution. They are also easier to use since they don't require any additional setup or configuration.
How do Native Compilers Work?
Native compilers work by analyzing the source code and generating machine code that is specific to the processor and operating system of the host machine. They can perform various optimizations, such as loop unrolling, function inlining, and instruction scheduling, to produce code that executes faster and more efficiently.
Advantages
- Native compilers produce highly optimized code that can run very quickly on the same system.
- They are easy to set up and use since they don't require any additional tools or software.
- Native compilers are usually more efficient in terms of memory usage than cross-compilers.
Disadvantages
- Native compilers are limited to the hardware and operating system on which they are running. This means that they cannot be used to compile code for other platforms.
- They are not suitable for cross-platform development, which requires the ability to compile code for different hardware and operating systems.
What is Cross compiler?
A cross-compiler is a compiler that generates executable code for a platform other than the one on which the compiler is running. For example, a compiler that runs on Linux/x86 box is building a program that will run on a separate Arduino/ARM. if a compiler runs on a Linux machine and produces executable code for Windows, then it is a cross-compiler. Cross compilers are typically used in embedded systems or when targeting platforms that are not available on the host machine. They are more difficult to set up and use than native compilers because they require additional configuration and libraries to generate code for the target platform.
How do Cross Compilers Work?
Cross-compilers operate by examining the source code and producing machine code tailored for a different processor and/or operating system than that of the compilation host. These compilers facilitate the development of software for platforms distinct from the one on which the compilation occurs. Similar to native compilers, cross-compilers can implement optimizations like loop unrolling, function inlining, and instruction scheduling to enhance the performance and efficiency of the generated code for the target system.
Advantages
- Cross-compilers can be used to develop software for multiple platforms.
- They can optimize code for a specific platform, even if the development environment is different.
- Cross compilers are often used in embedded systems development, where resources are limited.
Disadvantages
- Cross compilers can be complex to set up and use, and require additional software and tools.
- They may not be as efficient as native compilers in terms of memory usage.
- Cross compilers require the developer to have a good understanding of the target system's hardware and operating system.
Difference Between Native Compiler and Cross Compiler
| Native Compiler | Cross Compiler |
|---|
| Translates program for same hardware/platform/machine on it is running. | Translates program for different hardware/platform/machine other than the platform which it is running. |
| It is used to build programs for same system/machine & OS it is installed. | It is used to build programs for other system/machine like AVR/ARM. |
| It is dependent on System/machine and OS. | It is independent of System/machine and OS. |
| It can generate executable file like .exe | It can generate raw code .hex |
| Generates machine code for the same platform it's running on. | Generates machine code for a different platform than it's running on. |
| Turbo C or GCC is native Compiler. | Keil is a cross compiler. |
| Used for development and testing on the same system. | Used for cross-platform development, porting, and cross-compiling. |
| Example :- GCC compiler on a Linux machine. | Example:- ARM compiler on a Windows machine for compiling code for a Raspberry Pi. |
Conclusion
In summary, native compilers and cross compilers serve different purposes in software development. Native compilers are designed for use on the same system and produce highly optimized code, while cross compilers are used to develop software for multiple platforms. Each has its advantages and disadvantages, and the choice of which one to use depends on the specific needs of the development project.
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