Dependability

Dependability is a characteristic of a system that allows it to operate in a predictable manner, with minimal disruptions. This term is often used in the context of computer systems, software engineering, and reliability engineering. Dependability encompasses a variety of characteristics including reliability, availability, safety, integrity, and maintainability.

Definition

Dependability in a system is the ability to deliver service that can justifiably be trusted. It's a quality of a system, which aims to avoid service failures that are more frequent and more severe than is acceptable. Dependability can also be described as the ability of a system to avoid service failures that are more frequent or severe than is acceptable.

Characteristics

Dependability includes several characteristics:

• Reliability: This is the probability that a system will perform its intended function without failure under stated conditions for a stated period of time.
• Availability: This is the probability that a system is operational and able to deliver the intended services when required.
• Safety: This refers to the system's ability to operate without catastrophic failure or severe consequences.
• Integrity: This is the assurance that a system is free from unauthorized access and/or corruption.
• Maintainability: This is the ability of a system to undergo modifications and repairs.

Dependability in Different Fields

Dependability is a key factor in many fields:

• In computer systems, dependability is crucial as it ensures the system is reliable and available when needed.
• In software engineering, dependability is a key attribute that can determine the success or failure of a software product.
• In reliability engineering, dependability is a measure of a system's reliability, and is often considered as a system's ability to operate without failure over a specific period of time.

See Also

• Reliability Engineering
• Software Engineering
• Computer Systems

References

Dependability Resources
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