Binary Code Compatibility
In computing, a computer that can run the same binary code intended to be run on another computer is said to be binary-compatible. This differs from source code compatibility, where recompilation may be necessary.
Binary-compatibility is a major benefit when developing computer programs that are to be run on multiple operating systems. Several Unix-based operating systems, such as FreeBSD or NetBSD, offer binary compatibility with more popular operating systems, such as Linux-derived ones, since most binary executables are not commonly distributed for such operating systems. The same applies to Microsoft Windows; most binaries that are compiled for Windows 2000 can also be run on Windows XP and Windows Vista.
Read more about Binary Code Compatibility: Binary Compatible Operating Systems
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