Dead Code

Dead code is a code in the source code which is not executed when the program is run but still is present in the source code. This may happen as a result of modification of the program logic, enhancement of the design or reorganization of the code. Dead code is code that is no longer used within the program and is important to eliminate in order to enhance code maintainability and reduce program complexity and enhance program’s performance.

Dead code is an extra burden on the system as it consumes resources, and it equally makes the system complex with the risk of creating bugs and security issues. It hinders improvement in the future and also it hinders one to understand the code that they are working on.

To get rid of the dead code, the following methods can be employed by the developers including the use of static code analysis tools, manual code review, and code coverage analysis. It is advised to engage in maintenance activities from time to time in order to update software, and thus make the code as efficient and maintainable as possible even in the years after the software has been written.

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