failure
failure An event or condition in which an entire computer system or some part of it is unable to perform one or more prescribed functions. The failure may be due to a random process causing the hardware to cease to function, in which case hardware maintenance is required. Failure may also be due to a systematic cause such as an unrevealed or uncorrected fault in hardware or software. The fault may be due to an error, i.e. a mistake, occurring during (for example) design, specification, or operation. Each fault built into the hardware or software may be later revealed through a variety of processes such as review, static analysis, testing, or failure during operation of the computer. The result of revealing the fault at any time is a failure event for the hardware or software. Whether the failure is significant depends on the consequences and the timing.
There is thus a relationship between failure, fault, and error. Note however that the terms are sometimes used synonymously. See also fault-tolerant system.
There is thus a relationship between failure, fault, and error. Note however that the terms are sometimes used synonymously. See also fault-tolerant system.
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failure