Difference Between Native Compilation and Cross Compilation Explained With Example

Compilation is a fundamental process in software development, converting source code into executable programs. Understanding the difference between native compilation and cross-compilation is essential for optimizing development workflows, particularly when targeting different platforms or hardware architectures. In this blog post, we’ll explore the key differences between these two compilation methods and provide examples to illustrate their applications.

1. What is Native Compilation?

Native compilation refers to the process of compiling code on the same platform or architecture that will execute the resulting binary. This means that the compiler, the source code, and the resulting executable all run on the same system.

1.1. How Native Compilation Works

In native compilation, the compiler translates the source code into machine code specific to the host system’s architecture. For example, compiling a C program on a Windows PC using a Windows-based compiler results in an executable that runs natively on that Windows PC.

Example of Native Compilation

Consider the following C code in hello.c:

#include <stdio.h>

int main() {
    printf("Hello, World!\n");
    return 0;
}

To compile this code natively on a Linux system using GCC:

gcc -o hello hello.c

The resulting hello executable is designed to run on the Linux system where it was compiled.

2. What is Cross Compilation?

Cross compilation involves compiling code on a different platform or architecture than the one where the binary will run. This is often used when developing software for embedded systems, different operating systems, or different hardware architectures.

2.1. How Cross Compilation Works

In cross compilation, the compiler (cross-compiler) is designed to generate executable files for a target platform different from the host system. For example, you might use a cross-compiler on a Windows PC to generate binaries for an ARM-based embedded system.

Example of Cross Compilation

Suppose you want to compile the same hello.c for an ARM-based system using a cross-compiler. First, install the ARM cross-compiler toolchain:

sudo apt-get install gcc-arm-none-eabi

Compile the code with the ARM cross-compiler:

arm-none-eabi-gcc -o hello.elf hello.c

The resulting hello.elf file is an executable for an ARM-based embedded system, even though the compilation occurred on a different platform.

3. Key Differences Between Native and Cross Compilation

3.1. Target Platform

• Native Compilation: Compiles code for the same platform as the compiler.
• Cross Compilation: Compiles code for a different target platform.

3.2. Use Cases

• Native Compilation: Typically used for applications intended to run on the same system where they are compiled. Common for desktop applications and server-side software.
• Cross Compilation: Used for developing software for different hardware or operating systems, such as embedded systems, mobile devices, or different architectures.

3.3. Toolchain Requirements

• Native Compilation: Uses a standard compiler for the host platform (e.g., GCC on Linux).
• Cross Compilation: Requires a cross-compiler toolchain specific to the target platform (e.g., ARM GCC for ARM systems).

3.4. Development Workflow

• Native Compilation: Simplifies the development workflow since the compiler and executable are on the same system.
• Cross Compilation: Involves additional steps, such as configuring the cross-compiler and ensuring compatibility with the target platform.

4. Practical Considerations

• Native Compilation: Ideal for rapid development and testing on the same system where the code will run.
• Cross Compilation: Essential for developing applications for embedded systems or different architectures where native compilation is not feasible.

Understanding the differences between native and cross compilation is crucial for software development, particularly when targeting diverse platforms or hardware. Native compilation simplifies the process when the development and target platforms are the same, while cross compilation enables development for different systems, such as embedded hardware. By choosing the appropriate compilation method, you can optimize your development process and ensure compatibility across various platforms.