forceonly

forceonly is a term that can refer to several concepts, primarily within the realm of computer science and engineering, emphasizing a restriction or enforcement of a particular action or state.

In the context of software development, "forceonly" might describe a function or parameter that compels a specific operation to occur without alternative paths or user intervention. This could be used for critical system updates or configurations where bypassing the action is not permitted. For instance, a database migration tool might have a "forceonly" option to ensure all schema changes are applied, even if it means overwriting existing data. The term implies a lack of user discretion in the execution of the associated process.

Similarly, in hardware or network configurations, "forceonly" could denote a setting that mandates a particular protocol or mode of operation. This prevents the device or system from negotiating or defaulting to other options. An example might be forcing a network interface to operate at a specific speed and duplex setting, overriding any automatic negotiation capabilities. This is often employed to resolve compatibility issues or ensure predictable behavior in controlled environments.

The underlying principle of "forceonly" is the elimination of choice or negotiation, ensuring a predetermined outcome. While useful for enforcing critical operations and ensuring system integrity, it necessitates careful consideration due to the potential for unintended consequences if not implemented thoughtfully. The use of "forceonly" typically indicates a design decision to prioritize a specific action or state over flexibility.