Meaning – The term fault, refers to the accidental condition that causes a functional unit to fail to perform its required function. This term is applicable to both hardware and software elements.
A software fault, also known as a “crash”, is when the program directs the computer to go outside of its restricted memory boundary. A hardware fault is a failure in one of the circuits. Most of the time, faults that occur in either the software or hardware, can be fixed using prescribed methods, or with a quick visit to the service center. However, there are some faults that are malignant and can cause permanent damage to the hardware or software components.
Example of usage – “He had to replace the gaming PC that he had just recently purchased, as there was a fault that just was not getting fixed with the hardware, and the response from the service center confirmed his fears.”