What is a Segmentation Fault (Segfault)?

What does Segfault stand for?

A segmentation fault (segfault) is an errors back by using Hardware with reminiscence protection that tells the working Device that a reminiscence get admission to violation has befell. The working device usually reacts by means of telling the offending sySTEM about the error thru a Signal and then the OS plays some kind of corrective action. This occurs due to the fact a system or Software attempts to get right of entry to Memory that isn't always assigned to it.

A segmentation fault is likewise referred to as an get entry to violation.

What Does Segmentation Fault Mean?

A segmentation fault is frequently as a result of errors within the Programming of a Procedure or software in which this system is caused get entry to memory that become no longer allotted for it but for different programs or for the gadget itself. A system isn't always allowed to touch reminiscence now not reserved for it, because it should Constantly request reminiscence before using it. Therefore, whilst it by chance touches memory that isn't always assigned to it, an get admission to violation occurs.

Segfaults can also be due to a recursive Characteristic, which could expend all the Stack space it's far assigned and speedy encroach on reminiscence no longer assigned to it. In some systems, that is taken into consideration a Stack Overflow, however for others it's miles truely a type of get admission to violation.

A segmentation fault can be treated through a Method thru a custom signal handler, however often it's miles the OS’s default sign handler that is used, which usually consequences within the offending procedure being terminated abnormally, called a Crash, or the OS forcing a middle sell off.