Difference Between Compiler and Debugger

Last Updated : 26 Sep, 2024

A compiler and a debugger both are important tools in the software development process. The compiler is responsible for translating high-level programming languages into machine code. The debugger is a tool that helps developers identify and fix errors or bugs in the code. In this article, we are going to discuss the different between compiler and debugger in detail.

What is a Compiler?

Compiler, as the name suggests, is a process that is used to convert code into machine instructions. It simply translates source code from high-level programming language to low-level machine language. It is basically a complex software that performs both code optimization and code generation. It also makes end code more efficient which is optimized for execution time and memory space.

Role of a Compiler

The main role of a compiler for convert the code written in a high-level language into machine-level language so that computers can easily understand, we use a compiler. Converts basically convert high-level language to intermediate assembly language by a compiler and then assembled into machine code by an assembler.

Advantages of Compiler

Converts code into executable format, which runs faster.
Optimizes the code during compilation.
Can be used offline once compiled.

Disadvantages of Compiler

Compilation process can be slow for large programs.
Error messages are generated only after the entire compilation, making debugging harder.
It doesn't allow step-by-step execution of code for debugging.

What is Debugger?

Debugger, as name suggests, is a process used to remove bugs from code. It simply allows testing and debugging other programs. Sometime, it also provides two modes of operations i.e., full and partial simulation. It is used to prevent incorrect operation of software or system. It also uses instruction-set simulators instead of running a program directly on processor to achieve higher level of control over its execution.

Role of Debugger

The main role of debugger is to find runtime errors and fix. It helps the developer identify bugs that occur while the program is running, such as logical errors or memory issues.

Advantages of Debugger

Helps in detecting runtime errors efficiently.
Allows developers to step through the code, checking variables and flow at each step.
Enables breakpoints to pause execution at specific points.

Disadvantages Debeggur

Slows down program execution.
May require significant memory for tracking states.
Complex debugging can take a long time, especially in large programs.