What is a compiler?

• A compiler is a software tool that translates source code written in a programming language into machine code or bytecode.
• It helps programmers communicate their instructions to the computer effectively.
• The process of translation performed by a compiler is called compilation.
• In simple words, A compiler is like a translator for computers.

How does compiler work?

1. Parsing: The compiler reads the source code written in a high-level programming language and breaks it down into smaller parts called tokens. It then analyzes these tokens to understand the structure and syntax of the code.

2. Semantic Analysis: After parsing, the compiler checks the code for any errors or inconsistencies in terms of language rules, types, and semantics. It ensures that the code makes sense and is logically correct.

3. Optimization: Some compilers perform optimization techniques to improve the efficiency and performance of the generated machine code. This may involve rearranging code and replacing inefficient constructs with more efficient alternatives.

4. Code Generation: The compiler generates equivalent machine code or bytecode that can be executed by the target platform. It translates high-level instructions into low-level instructions

   

Some of the compilers:

1. GCC (GNU Compiler Collection):

   • Language Supported: C, C++, Objective-C, Fortran, etc.

2. Clang:

   • Language Supported: C, C++, Objective-C, and Objective-C++.

3. Microsoft Visual C++ Compiler:

   • Language Supported: C, C++, and C++/CLI.

4. Intel C++ Compiler (ICC):

   • Language Supported: C and C++.

5. Java Compiler (javac):

   • Language Supported: Java.

6. Python Interpreter:

   • Python code is typically executed by an interpreter rather than compiled into machine code.