Software test types
There's no shortage of ways to test software. QA engineers, testers and developers can rely on functional, performance, exploratory and other software test types, including those that run without human intervention. Learn how to use these tests and what situations lend themselves to certain types of tests.
Top Stories
-
Feature
30 May 2024
Understanding and implementing the software testing pyramid
Frameworks such as the software testing pyramid help developers implement Agile core values. Learn how the testing pyramid helps teams prioritize test type frequency. Continue Reading
-
Tip
30 Apr 2024
Positive vs. negative testing: Differences and examples
Take an in-depth look at positive and negative testing. Learn how to use both to form the basis of a thorough testing approach through a series of real-world examples. Continue Reading
-
Definition
22 Oct 2024
What is acceptance testing?
Acceptance testing is a quality assurance (QA) process that determines to what degree an application meets end users' approval. Continue Reading
-
Definition
17 Oct 2024
What is happy path testing?
Happy path testing is a type of software testing that uses known input and produces an expected output. Continue Reading
-
Definition
11 Oct 2024
What is black box testing?
Black box testing assesses a system solely from the outside, without the operator or tester knowing what's happening within the system to generate responses to test actions. Continue Reading
-
Definition
01 Aug 2024
What is dynamic application security testing (DAST)?
Dynamic application security testing (DAST) is the process of analyzing a web application in runtime to identify security vulnerabilities or weaknesses. Continue Reading
-
Feature
30 May 2024
Understanding and implementing the software testing pyramid
Frameworks such as the software testing pyramid help developers implement Agile core values. Learn how the testing pyramid helps teams prioritize test type frequency. Continue Reading
-
Definition
14 May 2024
bug bounty program
A bug bounty program, also called a vulnerability rewards program (VRP), is a crowdsourcing initiative that rewards individuals like ethical hackers and security researchers for discovering and reporting vulnerabilities and bugs in software. Continue Reading
-
Tip
30 Apr 2024
Positive vs. negative testing: Differences and examples
Take an in-depth look at positive and negative testing. Learn how to use both to form the basis of a thorough testing approach through a series of real-world examples. Continue Reading
-
Definition
29 Apr 2024
staging environment
A staging environment (stage) is a nearly exact replica of a production environment for software testing. Continue Reading
-
Definition
26 Apr 2024
cross-browser testing
Cross-browser testing, also called browser testing, is a quality assurance (QA) process that checks whether a web-based application, site or page functions as intended for end users across multiple browsers and devices. Continue Reading
-
Definition
25 Apr 2024
soak testing
Soak testing is a type of performance testing that gauges how an application handles a growing number of users or increasingly taxing tasks over an extended period of time. Continue Reading
-
Definition
24 Apr 2024
spike testing
Spike testing is a type of performance testing in which an application receives a sudden and extreme increase or decrease in load. Continue Reading
-
Feature
14 Mar 2024
Summit speakers break down new era of developing software
Top thought leaders discuss their strategies to choose the right software development process and to best utilize AI and ML in this comprehensive BrightTALK summit. Continue Reading
-
Tip
28 Dec 2023
Don't neglect API functional testing
APIs are how applications connect to a database, partner servers and integrated applications. Testing their efficacy is an essential QA task for every software team. Continue Reading
-
Tip
20 Dec 2023
What to know about Python load testing
It's a nice problem to have when an application is so popular it's in danger of failing from too many customers accessing it at once. Be sure you are ready to meet that demand. Continue Reading
-
Definition
11 Dec 2023
Scrum master
A Scrum master is a facilitator for an Agile development team. They are responsible for managing the exchange of information between team members. Continue Reading
-
Tip
07 Dec 2023
How boundary value analysis boosts test efficiency
Boundary value analysis provides multiple benefits, including increased test coverage and proactive defect prevention. It's a simple way to improve test efficiency. Continue Reading
-
Tip
14 Nov 2023
The dos and don'ts of scalability testing
Effective scalability testing helps to evaluate customer experience, protect against major failures and safeguard an organization's reputation. Here's how to set a strategy. Continue Reading
-
Tip
19 Oct 2023
Is continuous testing in DevOps worth the effort?
Continuous testing isn't simple to implement, but it can add exceptional business value to software development when done right. Here are the key elements. Continue Reading
-
Tip
28 Sep 2023
The dos and don'ts of visual testing
The visual aspect of an application is an important part of UX. Defects can potentially result in lost sales and damaged reputations. Continue Reading
-
Tip
31 Jul 2023
3 questions to ask in a digital twin testing scenario
Is your team prepared to capture the right data so that your digital twin testing is accurate and effective? Here's what experts say about proper test approaches. Continue Reading
-
Tip
20 Apr 2023
How to build a regression test suite
Code changes are an unavoidable aspect of software development. Teams need to properly test to make sure those changes don't adversely affect the end product. Continue Reading
-
Definition
14 Mar 2023
system testing
System testing, also referred to as system-level testing or system integration testing, is the process in which a quality assurance (QA) team evaluates how the various components of an application interact together in the full, integrated system or application. Continue Reading
-
Definition
13 Mar 2023
Testing as a Service (TaaS)
Testing as a service (TaaS) is an outsourcing model in which testing activities associated with some of an organization's business activities are performed by a service provider rather than in-house employees. Continue Reading
-
Definition
09 Mar 2023
performance testing
Performance testing is a testing measure that evaluates the speed, responsiveness and stability of a computer, network, software program or device under a workload. Continue Reading
-
Definition
07 Mar 2023
fuzz testing (fuzzing)
Fuzz testing (fuzzing) is a quality assurance technique used to discover coding errors or bugs and security loopholes in software, operating systems and networks. Continue Reading
-
Definition
07 Mar 2023
smoke testing
Smoke testing, also called build verification testing or confidence testing, is a software testing method that is used to determine if a new software build is ready for the next testing phase. Continue Reading
-
Definition
21 Nov 2022
benchmark
A benchmark is a standard or point of reference people can use to measure something else. Continue Reading
-
Definition
17 Nov 2022
static testing
Static testing is a software testing method that examines a program -- along with any associated documents -- but does not require the program to be executed. Continue Reading
-
Tip
28 Oct 2022
Why contract testing can be essential for microservices
Developers face numerous struggles trying to perform traditional, end-to-end integration testing on microservices. Contract testing presents a potential alternative. Continue Reading
-
Tip
20 Oct 2022
An overview of data-driven API testing
API testing -- including data-driven API testing -- differs from other software tests in its overall process and relevant metrics. Analytics and automation play a key role. Continue Reading
-
Tip
11 Oct 2022
The role of the T-shaped software tester in modern dev
While a T-shaped tester delivers a powerful and specialized skill set, continuous learning should be an ongoing priority for all software team members. Continue Reading
-
Definition
12 Aug 2022
software testing
Software testing is the process of assessing the functionality of a software program. Continue Reading
-
Tip
21 Jul 2022
Here's why you still need exploratory testing documentation
While documentation is an important part of exploratory testing, it doesn't have to be extensive -- and it shouldn't get in the way of learning about the software. Continue Reading
-
Tip
26 May 2022
Implement reliability testing methods, tools for better dev
Reliability testing can play an integral role in software development. Here are some methods and tools to incorporate into your app development lifecycle. Continue Reading
-
Tip
12 May 2022
Smoke testing vs. sanity testing explainer on key differences
While smoke and sanity testing are both techniques QA professionals use to quickly identify feature defects, they differ when it comes to scope, automation requirements and timing. Continue Reading
-
Tip
30 Mar 2022
How to develop a dependable regression testing strategy
Haphazard code changes can quickly break any application. Learn what a successful regression testing strategy entails, including the necessary scope and test suite requirements. Continue Reading
-
Guest Post
17 Mar 2022
What can urban sprawl teach us about UX design issues?
UX design sprawl mimics urban sprawl, both in its push for growth and its potentially dangerous pitfalls. Here are a few things to keep in mind during the UX design process. Continue Reading
-
Definition
14 Mar 2022
What is user acceptance testing (UAT)?
User acceptance testing (UAT), also called application testing or end-user testing, is a phase of software development in which the software is tested in the real world by its intended audience. Continue Reading
-
Tip
10 Jan 2022
What regression testing types make sense for your applications
Craft an in-depth regression testing plan that uses multiple types to test all facets of an application's functionality and ultimately lead to cleaner development. Continue Reading
-
Tip
15 Dec 2021
What unit test coverage percentage should teams aim for?
Unit testing is frequently needed, but what amount? Learn how to determine the amount of unit test coverage you need, what code to focus on, how to measure coverage and more. Continue Reading
-
Tip
28 Jul 2021
Basics of SaaS testing, challenges and strategies
With the software-as-a-service model, QA professionals must address particular test challenges and criteria. Let's look at those SaaS issues and the strategies to navigate them. Continue Reading
-
Tip
12 Feb 2021
The main types of database testing explained
Most software testers know about ACID for database testing. But the importance of databases means software teams should perform functional and nonfunctional testing in addition to verifying ACID adherence. Continue Reading
-
Tip
04 Feb 2021
How to performance test big data applications
When it comes to testing big data applications, there's a lot to consider and potentially be overwhelmed by. Here's how testers can keep their heads above water. Continue Reading
-
Answer
29 Jan 2021
Top 3 application performance testing objectives and goals
Let's explore the importance of result analysis, the right measurements and test design for application performance testing. Continue Reading
-
Answer
12 Nov 2020
Why is unit testing important for developers?
Through unit testing, software developers know source code works at the atomic level. Read why unit testing is important and valuable, as well as how it can ease the debugging process. Continue Reading
-
Answer
08 Oct 2020
Regression testing vs. UAT: Goals and techniques
Regression tests and UAT ensure software quality and both require a sizeable investment. Learn when and how to perform each one, and some tips to get the most out of your effort. Continue Reading
-
Tip
23 Sep 2020
Software accessibility testing: Standards, strategy and tools
Assistive technology ensures that all customers can access software easily. Don't overlook this important element of software quality. Here's how to test software accessibility. Continue Reading
-
Tip
28 Aug 2020
Common functional testing types explained, with examples
Not sure what to check during an integration test, or whether to combine regression and user acceptance testing? Learn what these functional test types cover, and when to do them. Continue Reading
-
Tip
07 Aug 2020
User acceptance testing best practices for Agile teams
Dig into the basics of user acceptance testing, including who handles the task, what should go into test criteria and other best practices. Continue Reading
-
Answer
02 Jul 2020
Software performance testing requirements and prerequisites
Just because software passes functional tests doesn't mean it works. Dig into stress, load, endurance and other performance tests, and their prerequisites and requirements. Continue Reading
-
Feature
17 Jun 2020
10 exploratory testing techniques for QA professionals
Software testers, embrace your creative and fearless side. Learn how to do exploratory testing with approaches for QA professionals of all skill levels. Continue Reading
-
News
12 Jun 2020
GitLab makes two acquisitions to shift fuzz testing left
GitLab has scooped up fuzz testing startups Fuzzit and Peach Tech, a move that will shift fuzz testing left in the DevSecOps toolchain. Continue Reading
-
Tip
02 Jun 2020
How to start using a BDD framework
Why bother with behavior-driven development? Learn how this Agile-focused development framework can help bolster application quality, and explore tooling that can help. Continue Reading
-
Tip
06 May 2020
Complete guide to penetration testing best practices
Pen testing uncovers security vulnerabilities before hackers do. Use this guide to learn about the tooling options, test types, use cases and common flaws in software penetration testing. Continue Reading
-
Tip
15 Apr 2020
What to include in a disaster recovery testing plan
Prepare software systems for disasters by putting together and testing a disaster recovery plan. Be ready for ransomware, fires, sabotage and a spilled cup of coffee on a laptop. Continue Reading
-
Tip
24 Mar 2020
How to set up a chaos engineering game day
Is it fun to spend the day breaking stuff in a war room with your coworkers? Of course, but more than that, it's vital to the security and stability of certain applications. Continue Reading
-
Answer
11 Mar 2020
What is the difference between SIT and UAT?
User acceptance testing and system integration testing differ in one key way: the person who does the testing. Learn when to apply UAT vs. SIT. Continue Reading
-
Feature
10 Feb 2020
Popular microservices testing tools developers should know about
Testing microservices gets messy as services are independent and communicate often. Here are tests necessary for microservices, and popular tools developers use to perform them. Continue Reading
-
Tip
20 Jan 2020
Dive into functional testing and non-functional testing approaches
Don't get trapped in a white or black box -- or the gray area in between. Here's why functional and non-functional app testing are complementary ways to ensure end user satisfaction. Continue Reading
-
Definition
28 Jul 2019
regression testing
Regression testing is a type of software test that assesses if changes to an application, or other related software components, introduce defects. Continue Reading
-
Tip
16 Jul 2019
How to form a regression testing plan with these 5 questions
Make regression testing part of a software quality control plan. Determine the project's testing requirements, and team preferences, to clarify a potent regression testing strategy. Continue Reading
-
Tip
28 Jun 2019
Contract-driven testing syncs API providers, consumers
To check if the APIs your software depends on meet expectations, apply a consumer-driven contract testing framework. Let's examine the syntax, tooling and examples of this approach. Continue Reading
-
Answer
25 Jun 2019
Quality assurance testing vs. user acceptance testing
There are differences between QA and UAT, but testers from both sides ought to collaborate and firm up test plans to resolve issues. Continue Reading
-
Answer
19 Jun 2019
Which code quality metrics should devs track?
Developers and testers strive to create quality, reusable code to deploy apps faster and keeps users happy. But what metrics should they track to evaluate code quality? Continue Reading
-
Tip
28 May 2019
Boost QA velocity with incremental integration testing
The longer it takes to perform tests, the less Agile your team is. Here are four common approaches to integration tests that help reduce bottlenecks and delay. Continue Reading
-
Tip
23 Apr 2019
Common software compatibility issues and how to fix them
Developers tend to look forward, to the next iteration or the newest software. But, when releasing a feature, don't leave behind end users with older systems and edge case setups. Continue Reading
-
Tip
13 Mar 2019
How to implement a winning interoperability testing strategy
From security to data transfers, network complexity and testing environments, development teams have a lot to address to perform effective interoperability tests. Continue Reading
-
Tip
26 Feb 2019
Software resilience engineering helps teams quash chaos
What does a nuclear power plant or government team of epidemiologists have to teach software engineers? Quite a lot, if your aim is not just better apps, but more resilient ones. Continue Reading
-
News
21 Feb 2019
GitHub security bug bounty program stretches to enterprise cloud
GitHub's bug bounty program for 2019 increases the reward money for researchers who find security vulnerabilities in the company's code. Continue Reading
-
Feature
06 Feb 2019
Evaluate load testing tool features and vendors
Application load testing products come in a variety of forms and their features vary. Read through these specs to find the tool that's right for you. Continue Reading
-
Feature
15 Jan 2019
What to look for in application load testing tools
Load testing tools help ensure an app is ready for prime time. But, with so many tools on the market, buyers must closely examine the products' features and their own environments. Continue Reading
-
Feature
18 Dec 2018
Application load testing is critical for business success
Load testing tools help ensure apps can withstand normal amounts of user traffic, as well as spikes and other conditions. Learn how these tools work and their business benefits. Continue Reading
-
Podcast
21 Aug 2018
Learn the value of exploratory testing vs. scripted testing
In this podcast, testing expert Matt Heusser explains how exploratory and scripted tests differ and how they complement each other. Continue Reading
-
Answer
21 Apr 2017
What happens when acceptance criteria in software testing is missing?
You can't test something if you don't know what it's supposed to do. Often, testers have a very incomplete understanding of what they're testing. Here's how to fix the problem. Continue Reading
-
Feature
13 Mar 2017
HPE Unified Functional Testing allows for application test automation
The HPE Unified Functional Testing platform provides users with interactive tools for creating and executing automated app testing tasks on desktop, mobile and web platforms. Continue Reading
-
Answer
18 Nov 2015
Do you have to choose between smoke and regression tests?
Software testing options abound. In the battle of smoke versus regression tests, which scenario fits best? Expert Amy Reichert explains how and when to use both for the best results. Continue Reading
-
Answer
17 Sep 2013
Guiding principles for an automated software test
An expert in automated software testing offers guiding principles for succeeding at this most challenging of QA projects. Continue Reading
-
Answer
01 Jun 2012
When to perform post-production testing
In some cases, testing post-production is needed, according to expert Pete Walen. He discusses the potential situations where post-production testing is helpful and what expectations we can have for performance testing. Continue Reading
-
Tip
30 Mar 2012
Security testing for unvalidated redirects and forwards
Security expert John Overbaugh gives security testers the information they need in order to ensure the Web application code that they’re responsible for is protected. Continue Reading
-
Answer
29 Mar 2012
Integration testing: What are the challenges?
Expert Pete Walen describes common problems with integration testing and offers insights into implementing it correctly, so that both internal and external users can benefit. Continue Reading
-
Answer
23 Sep 2011
Exploratory testing and regression testing in continuous integration
Expert Lisa Crispin explains how and when to implement exploratory testing, automated regression testing and manual regression tests in an Agile development environment. Continue Reading
-
Tip
19 Jul 2011
Regression vs. risk-based testing: Managing complexity
In this tip, consultant Vasudeva Naidu describes in detail the steps necessary to implement risk-based testing in your organization to ensure your regression test strategy is solid and successful. Continue Reading
-
Tip
29 Mar 2010
Six tours for exploratory testing the business district of your application
Exploratory testing is sometimes thought to be "directionless testing", but James Whitaker's new book suggests that exploratory testing, is more structured than it is credited for. Exploratory testing is filled with numerous tours or testing protocol, which dictate where problems might occur and where to find them and eliminate them. Continue Reading
-
Answer
09 Sep 2009
Defining core software regression tests
Regression testing is defined through software purpose addressed, the common key strategy is to automate the test phase. according to software testing expert John Overbaugh. Continue Reading
-
Answer
11 Nov 2008
Integration testing: Is it black box or white box testing?
Integration testing of software systems can be black box or white box testing. Learn how each can be used in this Ask the Expert Q&A with testing expert Mike Kelly. Continue Reading
-
Answer
12 May 2008
The benefits of user acceptance testing
User acceptance testing is an important part of the software development lifecycle. Expert Karen N. Johnson explains why UAT is beneficial for testers, users and virtually everyone involved in a software project. Continue Reading
-
Answer
05 May 2008
The scope of user acceptance testing
User acceptance testing is ineffective if testers don't allocate the proper time and resources. Expert Karen N. Johnson explains how to avoid shortchanging UAT. Continue Reading
- Definition 29 Apr 2008
-
Report
07 Mar 2008
Six functional tests to ensure software quality
According to a recent Info-Tech report, six types of functional tests can be used to ensure the quality of the end product. Those tests are unit tests, functional tests, systems tests, regression tests, system integration tests and acceptance tests. Continue Reading
-
Answer
09 Jan 2008
Usability testing vs. user acceptance testing
Usability testing and user acceptance testing may sound similar, but these tests have different focuses and are executed at different times in the SDLC. Expert Karen N. Johnson explains how these tests work. Continue Reading
-
Tip
18 Dec 2007
How to define the scope of functional security testing
With a many internal threats originating from applications, functional security testing is one of the most reliable ways to identify internal security vulnerabilities. Continue Reading
-
Tip
20 Nov 2007
Don't mistake user acceptance testing for acceptance testing
Despite the many references that concur on the definition of acceptance testing, people still get confused. Scott Barber clarifies things in this month's Peak Performance column. Continue Reading