Formal verification is a mathematical approach used to ensure that a system, such as software or hardware, behaves as intended. By using rigorous methods, it checks whether the system meets specified properties or requirements, often through proofs or model checking. This process helps identify errors or vulnerabilities before deployment, enhancing reliability and safety. In the context of computer science, formal verification is particularly important in critical systems like aerospace, medical devices, and financial systems. It provides a higher level of assurance compared to traditional testing methods, as it can prove correctness under all possible conditions rather than just a subset of scenarios.