Difference between Fault and Failure
Another good differentiation between fault & failure [Rob Davis]
| Source | Fault | Failure |
|---|---|---|
| StackExchange | Fault is a software defect (incorrect step, process or data definition) that causes a failure. | The inability of a software to perform its required functions within specified performance requirements. |
| Testing Standards | A manifestation of an error in software. A fault, if encountered may cause a failure. | Deviation of the software from its expected delivery or service. |
| Identifying Relevant Information for Testing Technique Selection: By Sira Vegas, Natalia Juristo, Victor R. Basili | An error becomes a fault when it is written (included) in any of the developed software products. | Failures occur when a software system does not behave as desired (does not do what it should do), which reveals a fault in the software. |
| StackOverflow | A fault is the cause of an error. A software fault lies in software, a hardware fault lies in hardware | A failure occurs when the observed behaviour differs from the expected one. Note that the reference is the expected behaviour, not the specification, since even the spec could be false. |
| FDA | An incorrect step, process, or data definition in a computer program. | The inability of a system or component to perform its required functions within specified performance requirements. It is manifested as a fault. |
Another good differentiation between fault & failure [Rob Davis]