Debugging tools, or debuggers, are software utilities that help developers find and investigate code defects (bugs) in applications and scripts. By exposing a program’s internal state, debugging tools help developers diagnose the root cause of logic errors, crashes, and other unexpected behavior, so they can correct the underlying code.
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Debugging tools, or debuggers, are software utilities that help developers find and investigate code defects (bugs) in applications and scripts. Depending on the tool, a debugger may let developers set breakpoints, step through code line by line, evaluate variables and expressions, and inspect memory or application state. Many debuggers work with a running program, and some can also analyze a program after a crash using a memory dump or similar snapshot.
Rather than relying solely on print statements or logs, developers use these tools to test hypotheses about why code behaves unexpectedly. Features and supported programming languages or runtimes vary significantly by product, from browser-based developer tools to standalone and command-line debuggers to debuggers built into full IDEs.
By exposing a program’s internal state, debugging tools help developers diagnose the root cause of logic errors, crashes, and other unexpected behavior, so they can correct the underlying code.
Some of the most common features found within debuggers include:
Ease of use. Some of the debugging applications have a steeper learning curve than others. Depending on how much time you have or are willing to spend learning the system, be sure to keep in mind ease of use before purchasing.
Multiple Databases. It may be beneficial to inquire about the system’s ability for connectivity with multiple databases as well as debug on virtual machines and remote hosts. This is a tool that could be very useful and time-saving for the programmer.
Automation. Certain tools within debugging systems could be automated such as code completion. This would be a very convenient tool for the programmer and is worth inquiring about.
For limited error and performance monitoring, it is possible to use a debugger at no cost. Most systems have a free trial and offer a paid starting package beginning at around $9 to $30, and a business package at $50 to $80. For enterprise pricing, vendors usually do not disclose their pricing and therefore must be contacted for a custom quote. Most will offer a free trial prior to purchasing which is recommended.
