ELI5: Explain Like I'm 5

Defensive programming

Defensive programming is like putting on your seatbelt before driving your car. You do it to prevent accidents, even if you don't know if or when they may happen.

When software developers build programs, they want to make sure that their code is as safe and secure as possible, like putting on a seatbelt for their program. They do this by writing code in a way that protects the program from errors or problems that could occur in the future.

Programmers use different tools and techniques to make sure their code is well-protected. For example, they write tests that check the program's behavior and verify that it works properly. They also add extra checks to catch errors before they happen, like a spell-checker catching a misspelled word before you hit send.

Another way programmers practice defensive programming is by making their code easy to read and understand. This makes it easier for other programmers who might work on the code in the future to fix any errors or add new features.

In short, defensive programming is all about making sure your code is safe, secure, and well-protected from errors or problems that could occur in the future. Just like putting on a seatbelt, defensive programming helps prevent accidents and keeps everyone safe.
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