High integrity software

High-integrity software is software whose failure may cause serious damage with possible "life-threatening consequences." "Integrity is important as it demonstrates the safety, security, and maintainability of... code." Examples of high-integrity software are nuclear reactor control, avionics software, and process control software.

[H]igh integrity means that the code:

• Does what it should.
• Can be tested.
• Has security features.
• Lacks security vulnerabilities.
• Is easy to understand and follow logically.
• Is easy to edit and upgrade without introducing new errors.

A number of standards are applicable to high-integrity software, including:

• DO-178C, Software Considerations in Airborne Systems and Equipment Certification
• CENELEC EN 50128, Railway applications - Communication, signalling and processing systems - Software for railway control and protection systems
• IEC 61508, Functional Safety of Electrical/Electronic/Programmable Electronic Safety-related Systems (E/E/PE, or E/E/PES)