Object code

Object code is machine-readable instructions produced by a compiler or assembler. It is often stored with data and relocation information in an object file and linked before execution.

Compiler: A program that translates source code into another representation, often machine code. A compiler commonly produces object code from a high-level programming language.
Instruction set architecture: A specification of a processor's instructions, registers, data types, and execution behavior. Object code must use instructions supported by its target processor architecture.
Source code: Human-readable program text written in a programming language. Source code expresses a program before compilation or assembly produces object code.
Static library: An archive of object files that a linker can copy into a program. Static libraries package reusable object code for inclusion in linked executables.
Assembler: A program that translates assembly language into machine code and related output. An assembler produces object code from symbolic machine instructions.
Symbol table: A data structure that associates names with information such as their addresses, types, or scope. Object files use symbol tables to describe definitions and unresolved references.
Bytecode: An intermediate instruction representation designed for execution by a virtual machine or further translation. Bytecode is typically interpreted or virtual-machine-targeted rather than native object code.
Shared library: A separately stored library that programs can use through dynamic linking. Shared libraries distribute reusable code without embedding every object file in each executable.
Relocation: The adjustment of address-dependent values when code or data is assigned a location in memory. Relocation lets object code work at the address chosen during linking or loading.
Relocation entry: An object-file record identifying a location that must be adjusted when addresses are assigned. Relocation entries tell the linker which object-code locations need address fixes.

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Proprietary softwareRelated: Proprietary software is commonly distributed in this executable form.