Precondition

Precondition

Precondition is a term used within computer programming and cybersecurity that refers to a set of requirements that must be met before a program can execute, or before a security safeguard is enabled. These requirements can be in the form of conditions of data, hardware, or other conditions, and unless they are met, the requested program or safeguard will not execute. Delaying the execution of a program or security measure until certain criteria are met allows for more secure operations.

Preconditions are typically checked before the execution of a program in order to ensure that all necessary conditions have been met. For example, a program that requires an online connection to run could call a routine before its main code that checks to make sure there is an active network connection. If the precondition fails, then the program can take alternative paths or inform the user that a connection is necessary. Preconditions may also be used to determine if a device is in need of an update before a program can be run, or if some data is present before a security protocol can be enabled.

Preconditioning routines are important for both computer programming and cybersecurity since they allow programs and data to be secure even in uncertain environments. By implementing checks on conditions an application may require prior to its execution, problems can be avoided or dealt with properly. Preconditions therefore provide an essential level of control and security for computer applications.