Debugging is the identification and resolution of existing and potential issues in software or hardware. Examples of these issues include faulty code (such as source code with logic errors) and manufacturing defects. The debugging process typically involves three steps:

1. Identifying bugs. During the first stage of the debugging process, end users, quality assurance (QA) testers, and developers report bugs. They may find these problems through processes like unit tests, manual code reviews, or simply by using the software or device. Some integrated development environments (IDEs), such as Visual Studio, offer built-in debugging tools to analyze lines of code step by step.

2. Analyzing bugs. At this phase, the reported bugs from step one will be evaluated. Important elements to consider include how the bug impacts the functionality and which parts of the software or hardware will be affected by it. Bugs can be caused by many types of errors, including syntax errors, logical errors, and runtime errors. The developers then prioritize bug fixes and create an action plan and timeline for fixing.

professional certificate

Google Cybersecurity

Get on the fast track to a career in cybersecurity. In this certificate program, you'll learn in-demand skills, and get AI training from Google experts. Learn at your own pace, no degree or experience required.

4.8

(42,132 ratings)

904,880 already enrolled

Beginner level

Learn More

Average time: 6 month(s)

Learn at your own pace

Skills you'll build:

Network Security, Security Information and Event Management (SIEM) tools, Linux, Cloud Computing, Intrusion Detection Systems (IDS), Python Programming, SQL, Packet Analyzer, Cloud Networks, Transmission Control Protocol / Internet Protocol (TCP/IP), Network Architecture, Security Hardening, resume and portfolio preparation, escalation, Job preparedness, stakeholder communication, integrity and discretion, NIST Cybersecurity Framework (CSF), Information Security (INFOSEC), Cybersecurity, Historical Attacks, Ethics in cybersecurity, PEP 8 style guide, Coding, Computer Programming, Incident Response Playbooks, Security Audits, NIST Risk Management Framework (RMF), threat analysis, Cryptography, vulnerability assessment, asset classification, Authentication, Command line interface (CLI), Bash

3. Fixing bugs and preparing for the future. Once the bugs have been fixed, software development professionals and QA testers ensure the software will continue to work properly by running tests. They also plan future tests to more easily identify recurring bugs.

Sometimes, software tools that come with features to aid users in debugging techniques are called debuggers. 

Debugging vs. testing: What's the difference?

Testing is one part of the debugging process. Debugging involves correcting the issues found during testing. QA testers and end users may test software, but developers typically troubleshoot and resolve the reported errors to finish the debugging process. 

Read more: Cybersecurity Terms: A to Z Glossary

Related terms

• QA tester

• IT infrastructure

• Test cases

• Social engineering

Get started in cybersecurity on Coursera

If you’re ready to get started in a cybersecurity career, consider enrolling in the Google Cybersecurity Professional Certificate on Coursera. Practice debugging code and automating cybersecurity tasks using Python. This program is designed ​​to help individuals with little to no previous experience find their first job or advance their current entry-level job in the cybersecurity field, all at their own pace.

professional certificate

Google Cybersecurity

Get on the fast track to a career in cybersecurity. In this certificate program, you'll learn in-demand skills, and get AI training from Google experts. Learn at your own pace, no degree or experience required.

4.8

(42,132 ratings)

904,880 already enrolled

Beginner level

Learn More

Average time: 6 month(s)

Learn at your own pace

Skills you'll build:

Network Security, Security Information and Event Management (SIEM) tools, Linux, Cloud Computing, Intrusion Detection Systems (IDS), Python Programming, SQL, Packet Analyzer, Cloud Networks, Transmission Control Protocol / Internet Protocol (TCP/IP), Network Architecture, Security Hardening, resume and portfolio preparation, escalation, Job preparedness, stakeholder communication, integrity and discretion, NIST Cybersecurity Framework (CSF), Information Security (INFOSEC), Cybersecurity, Historical Attacks, Ethics in cybersecurity, PEP 8 style guide, Coding, Computer Programming, Incident Response Playbooks, Security Audits, NIST Risk Management Framework (RMF), threat analysis, Cryptography, vulnerability assessment, asset classification, Authentication, Command line interface (CLI), Bash