Integer Overflow
Integer overflow is a problem that can happen in programming when a computer tries to store a number that is too big for it. Think of it this way. Imagine you have a box that can hold a maximum of 10 balls. If you try to put 11 balls in the box, what happens? The box overflows! This is the same thing that happens with integer overflow in programming.
Computers store numbers using a certain number of bits. A bit is like an on/off switch that can be either a 0 or a 1. The number of bits determines the range of possible numbers that can be stored. For example, if we use 4 bits, we can store numbers from 0 to 15 (2^4 - 1).
Now, let’s say we want to store the number 16 using 4 bits. It doesn’t fit! It’s like trying to put 11 balls in a box that can only hold 10. In programming, when a number is too big to fit in its allotted bits, it “wraps around” to the smallest possible number and starts counting up again.
For example, let’s say we’re using 8 bits to store numbers. The largest number we can store is 255 (2^8 - 1). If we try to add 1 to 255, what happens? The number “wraps around” to 0 and starts counting up again. This can cause unexpected behavior in a program and lead to errors or even security vulnerabilities.
In summary, integer overflow is when a computer tries to store a number that is too large for it and the number “wraps around” to the smallest possible value. It can cause unexpected behavior in programs and is an important concept to keep in mind when programming.