Overview of software dependability computing techniques from instruction set architecture's viewpoint

Abstract

The dependability of computing system is a major concern of academia and industry. In the post-silicon era, it is almost impossible to develop fully fault-tolerant hardware, while maintaining high dependability, low power and high performance. Thus, software dependability computing techniques are preferred to complement the hardware's dependability inadequacy. Cross-layer approach, where language, compiler, operating system, instruction set architecture (ISA), circuit, and device cooperates with each other, promises low cost dependability solutions compared to a single-layer solution. As ISA bridges the hardware and software, this paper surveys the software dependability techniques from ISA's viewpoint, including dependability-oriented instruction set design, analytical vulnerability model and compiler techniques to enhance dependability. In conclusion, this paper calls for further ISA design and compiler-based research work targeting dependability.