Definition
Formal verification is the process of using mathematically rigorous proofs to ensure certain aspects of blockchain mechanisms and cryptographic algorithms.
Understanding the Term
Formal verification is one of the most used techniques of testing software. It is a method where a system is proved to be working correctly with its ecosystem. The process uses a combination of a maths-based technique and static analysis known as formal methods to check the system’s design and its properties. In other words, formal verification allows checking the behavior of a system.
This is radically different from manual security checks, as formal verification helps in evaluating the complete code. This logically assures operators that the software functions as planned. The formal verification of any software program involves satisfying a formal specification of its behavior.
Formal verification is used in cryptocurrencies to check whether they are safe and steady. It is mainly used to check the functional correctness of a smart contract. However, one of the limitations of formally verified software programs is that they cannot be able to run infinite loops under any circumstance.
Takeaway
Formal verification is a mathematical technique by which software can be tested. This is done by limiting what the software can do to some specific rules and controlling the inputs to the software. This assures that the software is working as intended. The usage of formal verification depends on the rules of the programming system used.