Object Code

Acronym: IT

Object (or machine) code is the translation of source code into a language that only computers can read. Consisting of a series of ones and zeros, object code is generally created by taking proprietary source code and running it through a software program (a compiler) that transforms the source code into object code. Object code is then “bound” with other object code modules (which may be from a third party) to create executable code. Typically, executable code is licensed and installed in a live operating environment. Software developers feel confident in licensing executable code because reversing the process and discovering the nature of the source code by examining the object code or executable code is extremely difficult. It’s kind of like trying to re-create a tree from paper — you can’t just run it back through the mill! Nearly every software development environment includes third-party applications, which you need in order to re-create the developer’s executable code. If the software is released and you don’t know what additional third-party software you need, you’ll have a hard time figuring it out on your own.