A software bug is an error, fault or failure in a computer program or system that results in an incorrect or unexpected output, or unintentional behaviour. The majority of bugs arise by human error in a program’s source code or in its design. Bugs can also be located in frameworks and operating systems used by these programs, and some can result from compilers producing incorrect code. An automated software testing provider can help eliminate these bugs fast.
Knock-on Effects
The ripple effects of bugs can range from being mildly inconvenient to having extremely serious consequences. Some bugs only have a mild impact on the program’s functionality whereas others may cause it to crash or to freeze. Others like so-called security bugs may allow access controls to be bypassed and unauthorised privileges to be obtained.
The results of bugs may be even more serious and even detrimental to human health. Back in the 1980s, bugs situated within the code controlling a machine called Therac-25, which was used for radiation therapy, resulted in patient deaths. In 1996, the US$1 billion prototype Ariane 5 rocket of the European Space Agency was destroyed less than 60 seconds following launch, due to a bug within the on-board guidance computer program.
In 2002, a study conducted by the US Department of Commerce’s National Institute of Standards and Technology concluded that software bugs are so prevalent and can be so detrimental that they cost the US economy an estimated US$59 billion each year, which equates to 0.6% of gross domestic product.
Most software today comes full of small bugs and writing perfect software is arguably impossible. This is why the testing of software with services such as mytesters is vitally important. Bugs can be pinpointed and worked around fast before they cause too much detriment to the program you are using.
Options for Testing
Fortunately the ability to test software for bugs has increased considerably over time. Software testing is an investigation to provide information about the quality of the service or product under close examination. Software testing can also give an objective view of the software being used to allow businesses to assess and appreciate the risks involved in its implementation. Automated software testing providers can supply automated tests that can be run over and over again at no additional cost and can be much speedier than manual testing.
