Failsoft

/ˈfeɪlsɔːft/ adjective

Definition

In computing and engineering, describing a system designed to continue operating in a reduced capacity even when parts of it malfunction, rather than stopping completely.

Etymology

From 'fail' + 'soft', a computing term created in the 20th century to describe systems that degrade gracefully rather than fail completely.

Kelly Says

Modern planes, hospitals, and websites use failsoft design—if one system breaks, others take over so that passengers keep flying safely, patients get care, and the website keeps running (though maybe slowly)!

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