What is the Difference Between Assembler and Compiler?

The main difference between a compiler and an assembler lies in the type of code they convert and the level of intelligence they possess. Here are the key differences between the two:

Function: A compiler is used to convert high-level programming language code (e.g., C, C++, Java) into machine language code, while an assembler converts assembly level language code into machine language code.
Intelligence: A compiler is considered more intelligent than an assembler because it can perform tasks such as optimization and error checking. In contrast, an assembler is less intelligent and only converts assembly language code into machine code.
Conversion Process: The entire code is converted into machine language at the same time in the case of a compiler, while an assembler converts the code line by line.
Input and Output: A compiler takes high-level programming code as input and outputs a mnemonic version of machine code, while an assembler takes assembly level code as input and outputs binary code.
Phases: A compiler has multiple phases, including syntax analysis, semantic analysis, intermediate code generation, code optimization, code generation, and error handling. An assembler has only two phases: the first phase detects errors in the input code, and the second phase starts execution after the errors are fixed.

In summary, a compiler is responsible for converting high-level programming language code into machine language code, while an assembler converts assembly level language code into machine language code. Compilers are more intelligent and perform various tasks, such as optimization and error checking, whereas assemblers are less intelligent and focus on converting assembly language code to machine code.