Compare security with safety. Why is software safety so difficult to attain? Can it be guaranteed?

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Suresh Chand · Accepted Answer

Security and safety are two different but closely related concepts in the field of computer science. Security refers to the protection of computer systems and data from unauthorized access, theft, or damage, while safety refers to the protection of computer systems and data from accidental harm or damage. While there are similarities between the two, security and safety often require different approaches and techniques to achieve. For example, security measures such as encryption, firewalls, and access control are designed to prevent intentional or malicious attacks on computer systems and data, while safety measures such as redundancy, fault tolerance, and error checking are designed to prevent unintentional harm or damage to computer systems and data. Software safety is particularly challenging to attain because software is inherently complex, and it is difficult to test all possible scenarios and interactions that can occur. Additionally, software often interacts with other software systems, hardware components, and users, making it even more difficult to ensure safety. Furthermore, software safety requirements may conflict with other requirements, such as performance, functionality, and cost. For example, implementing safety features such as redundant code may increase the size and complexity of the software, which can reduce performance and increase development costs. While software safety cannot be guaranteed, it can be improved through the use of established safety engineering principles, such as hazard analysis, fault tolerance, and safety testing. Additionally, following best practices in software development, such as code reviews, testing, and documentation, can help to reduce the likelihood of safety-related issues. In summary, while security and safety are related concepts in computer science, they require different approaches to achieve. Software safety is particularly challenging due to the inherent complexity of software, and while it cannot be guaranteed, it can be improved through the use of established safety engineering principles and best practices in software development.

Compare security with safety. Why is software safety so difficult to attain? Can it be guaranteed?

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Compare security with safety. Why is software safety so difficult to attain? Can it be guaranteed?

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