A compiler and an interpreter are both language processors used to convert software codes written in high-level languages into machine language codes that computers can understand. However, they work in different ways. Here are some key differences between compilers and interpreters:

Compiler:

• Takes the entire program and converts it into object code, which is typically stored in a file.
• Generates a stand-alone machine code program.
• Displays all errors after compilation. If your code has mistakes, it will not compile.
• Runs faster than interpreted code.
• Requires a lot of time to analyze the source code.
• Catches only syntax errors and some semantic errors.
• Generates object code, which requires more memory.
• Programming languages like C, C++, and Java use compilers.

Interpreter:

• Translates code written in a high-level programming language into machine code line-by-line as the code runs.
• Directly executes instructions written in a programming or scripting language without previously converting them to an object code or machine code.
• Allows the management of memory automatically, which reduces memory error risks.
• Runs slower than compiled code.
• Takes a single line of code and very little time to analyze it.
• Can run only the corresponding interpreted program.
• Is more flexible than a compiled language.
• Programming languages like Perl, Python, and Ruby use interpreters.

In summary, compilers and interpreters are both used to convert high-level programming languages into machine code, but they work in different ways and have different advantages and disadvantages. Compilers generate stand-alone machine code programs that run faster but require more time to analyze the source code, while interpreters directly execute instructions line-by-line, are more flexible, but run slower.