What Does Dynamic Code Analysis Mean?
Dynamic code analysis is a testing procedure that is part of the software debugging process and used to evaluate a program during real-time execution. It is applied during the development phase.
The main purpose of dynamic code analysis is to find errors while a program is running, functions are invoked and variables contain values, versus checking each line of code, mentally applying values and guessing possible branching scenarios.
Techopedia Explains Dynamic Code Analysis
As a major part of code debugging, dynamic code analysis enables program testing in any scenario, eliminating the need to artificially create inputs or situations with the potential to produce unforeseen effects or errors. It is a standard procedure because it reduces the cost and time of testing while facilitating maintenance.
This process can uncover unexpected issues, like certain unnecessary requirements or required functionalities. Such issues do not manifest during the design process, as it is impossible for humans to determine all possible scenarios. What may sound good on paper does not always translate in practice and during observable, real-time execution.
Dynamic code analysis is also applied during the testing phase when engineers find certain bugs that only show up after multiple executions or in certain scenarios. In such cases, the only choice is to dynamically test the program and recreate the scenarios.
