Defensive design - GCSE Computer Science Definition

Defensive design is a practice used in computer science to ensure that software systems function reliably and are protected against user errors, unexpected input, and potential misuse. This approach involves building systems with safeguards and validations to handle incorrect or unpredictable data gracefully, thus preventing software crashes or malfunctions. By anticipating potential problems and incorporating error-checking and fault-tolerant features, developers create more robust and user-friendly applications. For GCSE Computer Science students, understanding defensive design is crucial, as it helps in developing programs that maintain functionality and security under various conditions, thereby enhancing user experience and system reliability.