Compilers VS Interpreters.

Compilers VS Interpreters.

1. Advantages for compiler over interpreter:

   • Object code is saved on disk and run whenever required without need to recompile.
     • however, if error is found, the entire program will need to be recompiled.
   • object code executes faster than interpreted code.
   • object code produced by compiler can be distributed/executed without original compiler present
   • Object code is more secure.
     • cannot be read without a great deal of reverse engineering
   • Compiler is appropriate when code needs to be run frequently, with occasional changes.
     • also when object code is going to be sold outside of the original producers of the code.
       • source code not present. therefore cannot be copied or amended.

2. Advantages of interpreters over compilers.

   • platform independence
     • source code can be run on any machine with appropriate intepreter
   • useful for program development
     • No need for recompiling each time an error is detected.

3. Disadvantages for interpreters

   • runs slower than a compiled program.
     • Each statement has to be translated to machine code each time its encountered
     • e.g if a loop of 10 is performed 20 times, all 10 statements are interpreted 20 times.