Debugger

Definition - What does Debugger mean?

A debugger is a software program used to test and find bugs (errors) in other programs. A debugger may also be referred to as a debugging tool.

Techopedia explains Debugger

A debugger is a computer program used by programmers to test and debug the target program. Debuggers may use instruction-set simulators instead of running the program directly on the processor in order to achieve higher level of control over its execution. This allows debuggers to stop or halt the program according to specific conditions. However, use of simulators decreases the execution speed.

When a program crashes, debuggers show the position of the error in the target program. Most debuggers are also capable of running programs in a step-by-step mode, besides stopping on specific points. They can also often modify the state of programs while they run.

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