In computer programming, an integer overflow occurs when an arithmetic operation attempts to create a numeric value that is too large to be represented within the available storage space. For instance, adding 1 to the largest value that can be represented constitutes an integer overflow. The most common result in these cases is for the least significant representable bits of the result to be stored (the result is said to wrap). On some processors like GPUs and DSPs, the result saturates; that is, once the maximum value is reached, attempts to make it larger simply return the maximum result.
Read more about Integer Overflow: Origin, Security Ramifications, Techniques For Mitigating Integer Overflow Problems
Famous quotes containing the word overflow:
“Oh! that thy love might overflow my Heart!
To fire the same with Love: for Love I would.
But oh! my streight’ned Breast! my Lifeless Sparke!
My Fireless Flame! What Chilly Love, and Cold?
In measure small! In Manner Chilly! See!
Lord, blow the Coal: Thy Love Enflame in mee.”
—Edward Taylor (1645–1729)