DCL05-C. Use typedefs to improve code readability

Use type definitions (typedef) to improve code readability.

Noncompliant Code Example

The following declaration of the signal() function is difficult to read and comprehend.

void (*signal(int, void (*)(int)))(int);

Compliant Solution

This compliant solution makes use of type definitions to specify the same type as in the noncompliant code example.

typedef void (*SighandlerType)(int signum);
extern SighandlerType signal(
  int signum,
  SighandlerType handler
);

Risk Assessment

Code readability is important for discovering and eliminating vulnerabilities.

Automated Detection

Related Vulnerabilities

Search for vulnerabilities resulting from the violation of this rule on the CERT website.

Related Guidelines

CERT C++ Secure Coding Standard: DCL05-CPP. Use typedefs to improve code readability

ISO/IEC 9899:2011 Section 6.7.8, "Type definitions"

ISO/IEC TR 24772 "BRS Leveraging human experience"