JustInTimeKompilation

JustInTimeKompilation, often abbreviated as JITK, refers to a compilation technique used in computing. Unlike ahead-of-time (AOT) compilation, where source code is fully translated into machine code before execution, JITK performs compilation during the program's runtime. This means that sections of code are compiled only when they are needed, or "just in time" for execution.

The primary advantage of JITK is its ability to optimize code based on actual runtime conditions. Since the compiler has access to information about how the program is being used, it can make more informed decisions about code generation, potentially leading to faster execution than AOT compiled code in certain scenarios. JITK is commonly employed in virtual machines (VMs) for languages like Java and C#, where it compiles intermediate bytecode into native machine code on the fly. This allows for platform independence during distribution, with the JITK handling the final machine-specific compilation on the user's system. Another benefit is that unused code paths may never be compiled, saving compilation time and memory. However, JITK introduces an initial overhead at runtime as compilation must occur before code can be executed, which can sometimes result in a slower startup time for applications.