Troubleshooting
is a form of problem solving, often applied to repair failed products or
processes. It is a logical, systematic search for the source of a
problem so that it can be solved, and so the product or process can be
made operational again. Troubleshooting is needed to develop and
maintain complex systems where the symptoms of a problem can have many
possible causes. Troubleshooting is used in many fields such as engineering,
system administration,
electronics,
automotive repair, and diagnostic medicine.
Troubleshooting requires identification of the malfunction(s) or
symptoms within a system. Then, experience is commonly used to generate
possible causes of the symptoms. Determining which cause is most likely
is often a process of elimination - eliminating
potential causes of a problem. Finally, troubleshooting requires
confirmation that the solution restores the product or process to its
working state.