Data-corrupting flaws in hardware do exist – but most are quietly fixed without the public noticing, writes Alan Cox
You published several letters arguing that computers themselves are reliable (Computers rarely go wrong, but computer systems often do, 17 January). The truth is somewhat less positive. While computer hardware is more reliable than most current software, data-corrupting flaws in hardware do exist, and more are found over time.
Some, such as rowhammer, become well known as security flaws, others become famous through recalls (like the Pentium FDIV fiasco), but most pass unnoticed by the general public and are quietly fixed or mitigated in microcode.
About Author
More Stories
Brisk walking linked to lower risk of heart rhythm problems, study finds
Revealed: Chinese researchers can access half a million UK GP records
Opt out: how to protect your data and privacy if you own a Tesla