Program optimization

Improving the efficiency of software In computer science, program optimization, code optimization, or software optimization is the process of modifying a software system to make some aspect of it work more efficiently or use fewer resources. In general, a computer program may be optimized so that it executes more rapidly, or to make it capable of operating with less memory storage or other resources, or draw less power. Overview Although the term "optimization" is derived from "optimum", achieving a truly optimal system is rare in practice, which is referred to as superoptimization. Optimization typically focuses on improving a system with respect to a specific quality metric rather than making it universally optimal. This often leads to trade-offs, where enhancing one metric may come at the expense of another. One frequently cited example is the space–time tradeoff, where reducing a program's execution time can increase its memory consumption. Conversely, in scenarios where memory is limited, engineers might prioritize a slower algorithm to conserve space. There is rarely a single design that can excel in all situations, requiring programmers to prioritize attributes most releva