What’s native code?

Print anything with Printful



Native code is programming code designed to work with a specific processor for optimal efficiency. Using an emulator to run incompatible software may result in reduced efficiency. Bytecode can be converted to native code, but not vice versa. Malfunctions with processors have decreased over time.

Native code is a form of computer programming code configured to work with the use of a specified processor. The exact structure of the code is set up to respond to the instructions that are issued by the processor. All types of software run on native code and are written to work at optimum efficiency with a selected type of processor or with processors manufactured to mirror the specified processor configuration.

Because native code is written to allow for full functionality when running on a system using particular computing components, choosing to run the software on a system without the required processor will result in limited access to package features. In some cases, the software may not work at all.

One way to run software using incompatible native code is to use an intermediate software package called an emulator which essentially converts signals from the processor into data that the code can read. Even with the most advanced emulation software packages, however, the responsiveness and degree of efficiency achieved tends to be less than running the program on a system equipped with the correct processor. Often, the best option is to rewrite the code to fit the processor currently in use.

It is important to note that native code is different from what is known as bytecode. Bytecode is compiled to run in a virtual machine mode that can convert the general components of bytecode into more focused native code that will work with your processor. Although the bytecode can be converted, it is not possible to do the reverse and use this approach to improve the level of compatibility with an external processor.

Native code is found in all kinds of programming environments. Over time, the incidence of malfunctions with various processors began to decrease. This is generally due to the fact that different processors are increasingly configured to work with the same types of protocols and logical sequences.




Protect your devices with Threat Protection by NordVPN


Skip to content