What is Debugging?

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Debugging is the process of locating and fixing errors (known as bugs), in a computer program, or hardware device. To debug a program or hardware device, you start with a known problem, isolate the source of the problem, and then fix it. When someone says they have debugged a program, or "removed the bugs" in a program, they imply that they have fixed the program, so that the bugs no longer exist in it. Debugging is a necessary process in almost any new software, or hardware development process, whether a commercial product, an enterprise, or personal application program. For complex products, debugging is done periodically throughout the development, and again during the customer beta test stages. Because most computer programs and many programmed hardware devices contain thousands of lines of code, almost any new product is likely to contain a few bugs. Invariably, the bugs in the functions that get the most use, are found and fixed first. An early version of a program that has lots of bugs is referred to as "buggy." Debugging tools help identify coding errors at various stages of development. Some programming language packages include a facility for checking the code for errors as it is being written.

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Debugging refers to a process in software development whereby program analysts comb through computer code looking for “bugs” — the source of errors, flaws or security holes in the internal program instructions. Hardware development also goes through debugging to ensure compatibility with current hardware standards and interoperability between components that adhere to the same protocols. Additionally, debugging guarantees that hardware and software is backwards compatible, or will coexist with preexisting standards that might still be in use.

Software debugging takes place in two phases. The first phase is known as “alpha testing,” and is performed in-house before the software is made public. The second phase is carried out through a public process known as “beta testing.” Beta testers are voluntary computer enthusiasts that use beta software at their own risks under agreement that errors or problems will be reported to developers.

Since bugs must be isolated and identified before they can be patched, the first step is to test the software under various conditions. When a bug reveals itself, the debugger takes note of the exact conditions under which the bug appeared, including the current running function, operating system type and version, and other software or hardware components that might be relevant. Public beta testers submit detailed reports online listing pertinent details accordingly, typically by filling out a pre-designed form.

Once both debugging phases are completed, the software program is ready for a general release as a stable version. However, debugging continues as a maintenance protocol for the life of the product, intensifying with major upgrades.