Native Code

Definition - What does Native Code mean?

Native code refers to programming code that is configured to run on a specific processor. Native code will generally not function if used on a processor other than the one it was specifically written for unless it is allowed to run over an emulator.

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Techopedia explains Native Code

Because native code is tailor-made for a specific processor, programs written using such code should (theoretically) run optimally on the native processor. The downside is that such programs will usually be rendered useless when used on a different processor. This limitation has steadily decreased since manufacturers have started configuring their processors to work with the same kind of protocols and logic sequences.

Although a program written on native code can run on a processor it was not originally intended for by using emulation software (which mimics the configuration of the originally intended processor), the program’s performance will generally suffer.