U64B6SQA: SOFTWARE QUALITY ASSURANCE

Assignment Unit-1

1. What is software testing? Explain Advantages of S/W testing.

ANS:

What is Software Testing?

Software Testing is the process of evaluating and verifying that a software application or system
behaves as expected and meets the specified requirements. It involves executing a software
application or system to identify bugs, errors, or gaps in functionality and ensuring that the
software behaves as intended.

The goal of software testing is to ensure that software is free from defects, works as expected,
and meets the needs of the user. It is a critical phase in the software development lifecycle
(SDLC) that helps improve the quality and reliability of the software before it is released to the
end-users.

Types of Software Testing:

1. Manual Testing: Testing is performed manually by testers without the use of automation
tools.
2. Automated Testing: Testing is performed using specialized testing tools that execute
pre-written scripts.

Advantages of Software Testing

1. Improved Software Quality:

o Software testing helps in identifying and fixing defects and issues in the software
early in the development process, leading to a higher quality final product. By
catching issues before release, it reduces the chances of software failures in
production.
o Example: If a bug in a financial application is discovered during testing, it can be
fixed before it leads to incorrect calculations for users.
2. Increased Customer Satisfaction:
o When software is thoroughly tested, it is more likely to meet user expectations
and requirements. Testing ensures that the software is reliable, functional, and
user-friendly, leading to greater customer satisfaction and trust.
o Example: An e-commerce application that undergoes comprehensive testing will
provide customers with a smoother and error-free shopping experience.
3. Cost Savings:
o Identifying and fixing bugs early during the testing phase is often much cheaper
than doing so after the software has been deployed. Post-release fixes can be
 costly and time-consuming, especially if the defects lead to service outages or
security breaches.
o Example: A company may spend less on testing when compared to fixing a major
issue that arises in production due to inadequate testing.
4. Better Security:
o Testing helps identify security vulnerabilities and loopholes in the software before
it is made publicly available. By running security tests (such as penetration testing
and vulnerability assessments), developers can secure the application against
potential cyberattacks and data breaches.
o Example: Software security testing can uncover weaknesses that might make a
system susceptible to SQL injection or other types of cyberattacks.
5. Faster Time to Market:
o Thorough software testing ensures that the software is robust and reliable before
release, reducing the time needed for post-release fixes and patches. This leads to
faster product delivery without compromising quality.
o Example: Software that is well-tested in the early stages is less likely to
experience significant delays after release due to unanticipated issues.
6. Improved Reliability and Stability:
o Testing enhances the stability and reliability of the software by ensuring that it
functions as expected under different conditions and workloads. It verifies that the
system is robust and can handle various user inputs or unexpected usage
scenarios.
o Example: Load testing can help ensure that a website can handle high traffic
without crashing or slowing down.
7. Compliance with Standards:
o Many industries have regulatory standards and compliance requirements that
software must adhere to. Testing helps ensure that software meets these standards,
especially in critical fields like healthcare, finance, and defense.
o Example: In the healthcare industry, software testing can verify that medical
applications comply with privacy standards like HIPAA (Health Insurance
Portability and Accountability Act).
8. Helps in Identifying and Fixing Defects Early:
o Early identification of bugs or defects in the development process leads to quicker
resolutions and more efficient handling of issues. Software testing ensures that
defects are identified in the development or testing phases before they impact
users.
o Example: Automated unit testing can catch defects early in the coding phase,
preventing bigger issues in later stages of development.
9. Boosts Development Team Confidence:
o A well-tested application reassures the development team that the software is
functioning correctly. This boosts team morale and allows them to focus on
building new features, improving existing ones, and refining the product.
o Example: Developers are more confident in releasing new features if they know
the existing codebase has been thoroughly tested and validated.
10. Regulatory and Legal Compliance:
  For certain industries like finance, healthcare, and insurance, regulatory compliance is
crucial. Software testing helps ensure that the software adheres to legal and regulatory
requirements, reducing the risk of legal liabilities and penalties.
 Example: Financial applications must be tested to comply with accounting standards and
ensure data integrity to avoid legal consequences.

11. Prevent Customer Complaints:

 When software is thoroughly tested, the likelihood of post-release bugs, crashes, or other
issues that could cause customer complaints is minimized. This leads to a better
reputation and higher customer retention.
 Example: A mobile app with a well-tested user interface and functionality will likely
receive fewer complaints from users compared to an app with frequent crashes.

12. Continuous Improvement:

 Software testing contributes to the ongoing improvement of the software product by

identifying areas for enhancement or additional features. It encourages a cycle of
continuous testing, feedback, and improvement to maintain or elevate software quality.
 Example: In agile development, frequent testing after every iteration ensures that the
software evolves and improves continuously.

2. Discuss the fundamental principles of testing.

ANS:

The fundamental principles of software testing are essential for ensuring that software
applications function as intended and meet the required quality standards. These principles guide
testers and developers in building a testing strategy that is both efficient and effective. Here are
the core principles of testing:

1. Testing Shows Presence of Defects (Not Absence)

 Testing can confirm the existence of defects, but it cannot prove that the software is
completely defect-free. Even exhaustive testing can't guarantee the absence of errors; it
only helps to identify issues that are present.

2. Exhaustive Testing is Impossible

 It is impossible to test all possible inputs, paths, or use cases, especially for complex
applications. Therefore, testing is often based on risk assessment and selecting test cases
that cover the most critical areas of the software.
3. Early Testing

 Testing should start as early as possible in the software development lifecycle. Early
testing helps identify defects in requirements, design, or code before they become costly
to fix.

4. Defects Cluster Together

 Often, a small number of modules or areas in the software tend to have the majority of
defects. This phenomenon is known as "defect clustering," and it suggests that focused
testing on critical areas can yield the highest return in terms of identifying defects.

5. Beware of Pesticide Paradox

 Running the same set of tests repeatedly will not help find new defects. To effectively
identify new defects, the test cases must be continually reviewed and improved, ensuring
that new scenarios and edge cases are covered.

6. Testing is Context Dependent

 The type of testing required depends on the context, such as the type of application (e.g.,
web, mobile, embedded), the software's criticality, the target audience, and the specific
goals of the project. Testing approaches vary based on these factors.

7. Absence of Errors Fallacy

 It is possible that a software may be free of defects but still fail to meet the user’s needs
or expectations. Absence of errors does not imply the software is ready for release if it
does not deliver the expected value or functionality.

8. Continuous Improvement

 Testing should be an iterative process where the test approach, techniques, and tools are
continually improved to keep up with changes in technology, requirements, and best
practices.

9. Testing Should Be Objective

 Testing should be objective, based on facts, and driven by test cases rather than personal
opinions or biases. Test results should be reproducible and verifiable by others.

10. The Best Test is the One That Finds a Defect

 The ultimate goal of testing is to find defects in the software. The best test is one that
reveals an issue, as this helps improve the quality of the application.
3. Explain Software verification and validation in brief.

ANS:

Software Verification and Validation (V&V) are two key processes in software quality
assurance that help ensure a software product meets its requirements and functions correctly.
Though they are closely related, they serve different purposes:

1. Software Verification

 Definition: Verification is the process of evaluating whether a software system conforms

to the specified requirements and design specifications. In simple terms, it answers the
question: "Are we building the product right?"
 Purpose: To ensure that the software is being built according to the defined design,
architecture, and requirements.
 Activities: Verification involves reviews, inspections, walkthroughs, and static analysis
of the software's code, design, and specifications.
 Methods:
o Code review
o Design walkthrough
o Unit testing (checking individual components)
o Static code analysis (checking the code without executing it)
 Focus: It focuses on ensuring that the product is developed correctly and that it meets the
technical and functional specifications.

2. Software Validation

 Definition: Validation is the process of evaluating the software at the end of the
development process to ensure it meets the user’s needs and requirements. It answers the
question: "Are we building the right product?"
 Purpose: To ensure the software functions as expected in the real-world environment and
satisfies the end user's needs.
 Activities: Validation typically involves dynamic testing, such as integration testing,
system testing, user acceptance testing (UAT), and beta testing.
 Methods:
o System testing (checking the software as a whole)
o User acceptance testing (UAT) (confirming it meets user expectations)
o Integration testing (ensuring proper interaction between components)
 Focus: It ensures that the product works as intended and is usable in the real-world
context by the end users.

4. Difference between static testing and dynamic testing

ANS:
 Static Testing and Dynamic Testing are two fundamental types of software testing, each
with its unique approach and focus. Here’s a brief comparison between them:

1. Static Testing

 Definition: Static testing involves examining the software’s code, documentation, or

design without executing the program. It is performed to find potential defects in the code
early in the development process.
 Objective: To identify issues such as syntax errors, coding standards violations, and
inconsistencies in the design, documentation, or code structure.
 Techniques:
o Code review (manual inspection of code)
o Static analysis (using tools to check for potential issues in code without
executing it)
o Walkthroughs (reviewing the design or code with a team)
o Inspection (detailed examination of code or documentation)
 Execution: No execution of the program is required.
 Advantages:
o Early detection of issues (before runtime).
o Can find errors that are not easily detected during dynamic testing, such as coding
standards violations.
o Helps in understanding and improving the code structure and design.
 Limitations:
o Cannot detect runtime issues or performance problems.
o Does not validate the functional behavior of the software.

2. Dynamic Testing

 Definition: Dynamic testing involves executing the software to verify that it behaves as
expected and performs the desired functions. It checks the software's behavior during
runtime.
 Objective: To ensure that the software works as intended by executing the code in a real
or simulated environment and observing its behavior.
 Techniques:
o Unit testing (testing individual components of the software)
o Integration testing (testing interactions between components)
o System testing (testing the entire system)
o Acceptance testing (testing against user requirements)
 Execution: The program is executed, and its behavior is monitored.
 Advantages:
o Can detect runtime errors, functional problems, and performance issues.
o Validates the actual behavior and functionality of the software.
 Limitations:
o Errors found during dynamic testing can be more expensive to fix if detected late
in the development process.
 o May not catch design-level issues or coding errors that can be spotted with static
testing.

5. Give the difference between SDLC and STLC.

ANS:

SDLC (Software Development Life Cycle) and STLC (Software Testing Life Cycle)
are both critical processes in software development and testing, but they serve different purposes
and occur at different stages in the project. Here’s a comparison of the two:

1. SDLC (Software Development Life Cycle)

 Definition: SDLC is a structured approach to software development, which covers the

entire process of building software from initial planning to the final deployment and
maintenance. It focuses on creating a high-quality software product.
 Purpose: To develop and deliver a software product that meets user requirements and is
of high quality.
 Stages:
1. Requirement gathering – Identifying and documenting the requirements from
stakeholders.
2. System Design – Creating the architecture and design of the system.
3. Implementation (Coding) – Writing the actual code for the system.
4. Testing – Verifying that the system works as expected and fixing defects.
5. Deployment – Releasing the product to users.
6. Maintenance – Addressing any issues that arise after deployment, such as bug
fixes and updates.
 Focus: Focuses on the entire development process, including planning, designing,
coding, testing, deploying, and maintaining the software.

2. STLC (Software Testing Life Cycle)

 Definition: STLC is a process within the SDLC that focuses specifically on the testing
activities. It describes the series of steps that a testing team follows to ensure the quality
and functionality of the software being developed.
 Purpose: To ensure that the software is thoroughly tested for defects and meets the
specified requirements.
 Stages:
1. Requirement Analysis – Understanding the testing requirements from the
specifications and documents.
2. Test Planning – Defining the scope, approach, resources, and schedule for
testing.
3. Test Design – Creating test cases and test scripts based on the requirements.
4. Test Execution – Running the test cases and documenting the results.
5. Defect Reporting – Reporting any defects found during testing.
 6. Test Closure – Closing the testing phase after the test results are analyzed and
defects are fixed.
 Focus: Focuses on ensuring the product is defect-free, meets the quality standards, and
functions as expected by the end-users.

Key Differences:
Aspect SDLC (Software Development Life Cycle) STLC (Software Testing Life Cycle)

The entire process of developing software The process of testing the software to
Definition
from planning to maintenance. ensure its quality.

To ensure that the developed software

Objective To develop and deliver the software product.
meets the quality standards.

Covers all phases: requirement gathering, Focuses specifically on the testing phase
Scope design, development, testing, deployment, within the overall software development
and maintenance. process.

Includes phases like test planning, test

Includes phases like planning, design, coding,
Stages design, test execution, defect reporting,
testing, deployment, and maintenance.
and test closure.

Focuses on the development and delivery of Focuses on verifying and validating the
Focus
the software product. software’s functionality and quality.

Involves developers, project managers, and Involves testing teams, testers, and quality
Involvement
stakeholders. assurance specialists.

Encompasses the full software project Only covers the testing part of the
Timeframe
lifecycle. software development process.

Includes software requirements, design Includes test plans, test cases, test reports,
Deliverables
documents, code, and deployment artifacts. and defect logs.

Development tools, version control systems, Testing tools for test automation, defect
Tools Used
deployment tools. tracking, and reporting.

6. Explain V-Model of software testing with figure.

ANS:

The V-Model (Verification and Validation Model) of software testing is an extension of

the traditional waterfall model. It emphasizes the importance of testing at every stage of the
development process, ensuring that verification and validation activities are performed in parallel
with each phase of development. The V-Model is named for the shape of its flow, where each
development phase has a corresponding testing phase that occurs in parallel.
Key Concept:

 Verification occurs during the development process to ensure that the software is being
built according to the specified requirements (building the product right).
 Validation happens after development to ensure that the software meets the user
requirements and works as expected in the real world (building the right product).

Phases of the V-Model:

1. Requirement Analysis (Corresponding Testing: Acceptance Testing)

o Development Phase: The system's requirements are gathered from the client and
documented.
o Testing Phase: Testers analyze the requirements to create the Acceptance Test
Plan, which defines the validation criteria for the software.
2. System Design (Corresponding Testing: System Testing)
o Development Phase: High-level design of the system is created, focusing on
overall architecture and components.
o Testing Phase: System testing is planned, which will verify the functionality of
the entire system as an integrated unit.
3. Architecture Design (Corresponding Testing: Integration Testing)
o Development Phase: The system is broken down into subsystems and detailed
architecture is defined for each component.
o Testing Phase: Integration testing ensures that the individual components work
together as intended.
4. Module Design (Corresponding Testing: Unit Testing)
o Development Phase: Detailed design for individual modules or components is
created.
o Testing Phase: Unit testing is conducted to verify the functionality of individual
components or modules.
5. Coding (Corresponding Testing: No direct testing but aligned with unit testing)
o Development Phase: The actual code for the system is written.
o Testing Phase: Once coding is completed, unit tests are executed to check the
functionality of each module.

Visual Representation of the V-Model:

The V-Model can be represented as a "V" shape, where the left side represents the development
phases and the right side represents the corresponding testing phases.

Requirement Analysis -> Acceptance Testing

| |
V V
System Design -> System Testing
| |
V V
Architecture Design -> Integration Testing
| |
V V
 Module Design -> Unit Testing
| |
V V
Coding (Testing at every level occurs here)
Explanation of the Model:

 Left side (Development Phases):

o Requirement Analysis: Defines what the software will do.
o System Design: Defines how the system will be structured.
o Architecture Design: Breaks down the system into smaller components.
o Module Design: Defines the individual parts that need to be developed.
o Coding: The actual programming of the software.
 Right side (Testing Phases):
o Acceptance Testing: Verifies that the software meets the client’s needs.
o System Testing: Verifies the complete integrated system against the
requirements.
o Integration Testing: Verifies that different modules or components work
together as intended.
o Unit Testing: Verifies individual modules or components for correctness.

Advantages of the V-Model:

1. Early detection of defects: Since testing is planned in parallel with development, defects
can be detected early in the development lifecycle.
2. Clear milestones: Each phase has clearly defined deliverables, making progress easier to
track.
3. Structured approach: Ensures a systematic approach to development and testing.

Disadvantages of the V-Model:

1. Inflexibility: The V-Model can be too rigid, making it difficult to go back to a previous
phase once it’s completed.
2. No overlap: Testing and development are done separately, which might lead to delays in
addressing issues found during testing.
3. High dependence on requirements: The V-Model assumes that requirements are well
understood upfront. Any changes during the process can be costly.

7. Explain prioritization techniques in software testing.

ANS:

Prioritization in software testing refers to the process of determining the order in which
test cases should be executed based on various criteria to ensure that the most critical aspects of
the software are tested first. Given the time and resource constraints, prioritization helps
maximize the effectiveness of the testing process by identifying the areas most likely to contain
defects or areas that are most important to the business.

There are several techniques for prioritizing test cases, each with its own focus. Below are the
most commonly used prioritization techniques:

1. Risk-Based Prioritization

 Definition: In this technique, test cases are prioritized based on the risk of failure and the
impact of defects. High-risk areas (i.e., areas with complex functionality, critical business
processes, or higher likelihood of failure) are tested first.
 Criteria:
o Likelihood of failure: How likely is it that a defect will occur in this part of the
system?
o Impact of failure: What is the severity or consequence if a defect occurs in this
area?
 Approach:
o Identify critical modules and features.
o Assess the probability of failure and the impact of failure for each feature.
o Prioritize test cases that address high-risk areas.
 Advantages:
o Focuses on the most important parts of the application.
o Helps ensure the software works well in key areas.
 Disadvantages:
o May miss low-risk areas that could still contain defects.

2. Requirement-Based Prioritization

 Definition: This technique prioritizes test cases based on the requirements and
functionality specified in the project’s requirements document. Test cases for more
critical requirements are executed first.
 Approach:
o Classify requirements by their priority and business value.
o Map test cases to requirements.
o Prioritize test cases that cover high-priority or high-business-value requirements.
 Advantages:
o Ensures that the most important functionality is tested first.
o Aligns testing with business objectives.
 Disadvantages:
o May neglect lower-priority requirements, which could still have defects.

3. Customer or User-Centric Prioritization

 Definition: Test cases are prioritized based on user expectations and usage patterns.
Features that are most frequently used or critical to the user experience are tested first.
 Approach:
 o Identify high-usage areas based on user feedback or analytics.
o Prioritize test cases that verify critical user flows or scenarios.
o Consider customer pain points or common problems faced by users.
 Advantages:
o Ensures that the most impactful features for end-users are validated.
o Focuses on real-world scenarios and user behavior.
 Disadvantages:
o May overlook less frequently used features that could still be important.

4. Business-Critical Test Prioritization

 Definition: Prioritizes test cases based on the business impact of the features. Features
critical to the company’s operations or revenue are tested first.
 Approach:
o Identify business-critical features (e.g., payment systems, customer login, or data
processing).
o Prioritize testing for these critical areas, especially if they affect revenue or legal
compliance.
 Advantages:
o Ensures that the software meets business needs and legal requirements.
o Helps reduce risks associated with business disruptions.
 Disadvantages:
o Might miss areas that are less critical to business but still affect user experience.

5. Previous Defects and Historical Data Prioritization

 Definition: In this approach, test cases are prioritized based on the historical data or
patterns from previous releases. If certain areas of the software have had more defects in
the past, they are prioritized for testing in the current release.
 Approach:
o Analyze past test execution results and defect logs.
o Identify areas with recurring defects or those that were problematic in earlier
versions.
o Focus test efforts on these areas.
 Advantages:
o Leverages previous defect trends to predict problem areas.
o Helps detect regressions early.
 Disadvantages:
o Past issues might not be relevant if the codebase has changed significantly.
o Can lead to overemphasis on certain areas, missing new defects in untested areas.

6. Code Complexity-Based Prioritization

 Definition: Test cases are prioritized based on the complexity of the code. More complex
or less tested code is more likely to contain defects, so those areas are prioritized for
testing.
  Approach:
o Use code complexity metrics like Cyclomatic Complexity (a measure of the
number of independent paths in the code).
o Focus testing on complex or "critical" paths that have higher chances of
containing defects.
 Advantages:
o Helps identify areas with high defect potential based on the code’s complexity.
 Disadvantages:
o May miss issues in simpler code paths.

7. Test Case Prioritization Based on Test Coverage

 Definition: Prioritize test cases that provide the most coverage of the code, requirements,
or risk areas. The goal is to maximize test coverage in the shortest time frame.
 Approach:
o Measure the test coverage (e.g., code coverage, requirement coverage, risk
coverage).
o Prioritize test cases that cover untested or under-tested areas.
 Advantages:
o Ensures that critical paths are tested, improving overall test coverage.
 Disadvantages:
o Focus on coverage might not always align with actual business priorities or user
requirements.

8. Time and Resource-Based Prioritization

 Definition: Test cases are prioritized based on the available time and resources for
testing. In cases where time is limited, the most important test cases are executed first,
based on defined criteria.
 Approach:
o Determine available testing time and resources.
o Prioritize test cases that can be executed within the available constraints.
 Advantages:
o Ensures that testing focuses on the most critical areas, given time constraints.
 Disadvantages:
o May lead to skipping important tests that could detect defects.

8. Discuss Requirement Traceability Matrix.

ANS:

Requirement Traceability Matrix (RTM)

A Requirement Traceability Matrix (RTM) is a tool used in software testing and project
management to ensure that all requirements defined for a system are covered by test cases. It
establishes a clear relationship between requirements and their corresponding test cases, ensuring
that each requirement is tested and validated during the software development lifecycle.

The RTM helps verify that all requirements are implemented correctly and provides traceability
from the requirements to the test cases, which aids in validating the system’s functionality and
ensuring no requirement is missed during testing.

Key Purpose of RTM:

1. Ensure Complete Test Coverage: RTM ensures that all requirements are tested, leaving
no gaps in the testing process.
2. Track Requirements and Their Status: It helps track the status of requirements and
their associated test cases, showing whether a requirement has been tested, passed, or
failed.
3. Risk Management: Identifying any missing test coverage or untested requirements, thus
managing potential risks.
4. Project Documentation: RTM serves as documentation that proves all requirements
were tested and validated.
5. Verification and Validation: Ensures that the final product meets all the requirements
specified by the client or business stakeholders.

Structure of the RTM:

An RTM is typically presented as a table, where each row represents a requirement, and the
columns contain information that links the requirement to corresponding test cases, test results,
and status.

Typical Columns in an RTM:

1. Requirement ID/Number: A unique identifier for each requirement.

2. Requirement Description: A brief description of the requirement.
3. Test Case ID/Number: The unique identifier for each test case designed to test the
requirement.
4. Test Case Description: A brief description of the test case that verifies the requirement.
5. Test Status: Status of the test case (e.g., Passed, Failed, Not Executed, etc.).
6. Test Execution Date: The date when the test case was executed.
7. Defect ID (if applicable): If any defects are found during the testing, the defect's ID is
noted here.
8. Test Type (if applicable): The type of test (e.g., Unit Testing, Integration Testing,
UAT).
9. Traceability (Link): Links to related documents such as design documents or user
stories.
Sample RTM Table:
Test
Requirement Requirement Test Test Defect
Test Case Description Execution
ID Description Case ID Status ID
Date

User login Verify that users can log in

REQ-001 TC-001 Passed 2025-04-20
functionality with valid credentials

Forgot password Verify that users can reset

REQ-002 TC-002 Passed 2025-04-21
functionality their password

Verify that only admins

Admin access DEF-
REQ-003 TC-003 can access the admin Failed 2025-04-22
control 001
panel

Types of RTM:

There are different types of RTM that serve various purposes based on the level of detail and the
stage of the project:

1. Forward Traceability Matrix:

o Purpose: Ensures that every requirement has corresponding test cases to verify its
implementation.
o Flow: It traces the requirements to the test cases. If all requirements are linked to
test cases, it confirms the testing coverage.
2. Backward Traceability Matrix:
o Purpose: Ensures that all test cases are tied to a requirement, so unnecessary tests
(those not tied to any requirement) can be avoided.
o Flow: It traces test cases back to the requirements. This helps ensure that no test
case is created without a corresponding requirement.
3. Bi-Directional Traceability Matrix:
o Purpose: Combines forward and backward traceability. It links requirements to
test cases and ensures that each test case is traced back to the requirement.
o Flow: It allows both forward and backward tracking of requirements and test
cases, providing complete traceability.

9. Explain Software testing life cycle in details.

ANS:

Software Testing Life Cycle (STLC)

The Software Testing Life Cycle (STLC) is a series of defined phases or stages that are
followed to ensure that software is tested thoroughly and meets the required quality standards.
Each phase focuses on specific tasks to ensure the effectiveness of the testing process. The STLC
defines the sequence of activities required to test the software, starting from planning and ending
with test closure.

The primary goal of the STLC is to verify that the software meets the specified requirements and
to detect defects early in the development process, ensuring that the final product is of high
quality.

Phases of STLC:

1. Requirement Analysis
o Objective: Understand the requirements and identify testable requirements.
o Activities:
 Review the project documentation (e.g., Business Requirement Document,
Functional Requirement Document).
 Collaborate with stakeholders (business analysts, developers, project
managers) to understand the functional and non-functional requirements.
 Identify the testable requirements and ensure that they are complete,
unambiguous, and feasible.
 Define the test objectives and test criteria.
o Output: List of testable requirements, test objectives, and test cases planning.
2. Test Planning
o Objective: Develop a test plan that outlines the strategy, approach, and scope of
testing.
o Activities:
 Define the overall testing strategy and approach (manual or automated
testing, types of testing like functional, performance, security, etc.).
 Identify resources (testers, tools, environments) required for the testing
process.
 Define the scope of testing, including the features and modules to be
tested and the features to be excluded.
 Create the test schedule, timelines, and deliverables.
 Estimate the efforts and resources required for testing.
 Prepare risk analysis and identify potential risks in testing.
o Output: Test Plan document, test schedule, resource allocation, risk analysis.
3. Test Design
o Objective: Design test cases, test scripts, and other test documentation.
o Activities:
 Design detailed test cases based on the test plan, covering all possible
scenarios, including positive, negative, boundary, and edge cases.
 Identify the test data required for execution.
 Design test scripts (for automated testing) and prepare the testing
environment.
 Create traceability matrices to link test cases to requirements.
 Review the test cases and scripts with stakeholders to ensure accuracy and
completeness.
 o Output: Test cases, test scripts, test data, and test environment setup
documentation.
4. Test Environment Setup
o Objective: Set up the testing environment for executing test cases.
o Activities:
 Prepare hardware, software, and network configurations to match the
production environment.
 Install the necessary software, tools, and test configurations on the test
environment.
 Set up the test database and create the test data required for the test cases.
 Verify the test environment by running a few smoke tests or environment
validation tests.
o Output: Configured test environment, test data setup, environment validation
reports.
5. Test Execution
o Objective: Execute the test cases and capture test results.
o Activities:
 Execute the test cases as per the test plan and test design documents.
 Log defects if discrepancies or failures are found during testing.
 Monitor the execution progress and ensure that the tests are executed
within the defined scope and timeline.
 Update the test execution status regularly to reflect the number of test
cases passed, failed, or blocked.
o Output: Test execution reports, defect logs, and status updates on test case
results.
6. Defect Reporting and Tracking
o Objective: Report and track defects found during testing.
o Activities:
 Log the defects into a defect tracking tool (e.g., Jira, Bugzilla), describing
the issue, severity, steps to reproduce, and screenshots (if applicable).
 Prioritize the defects based on their severity and impact on the system.
 Work with developers to resolve the defects and verify that they have been
fixed.
 Retest the fixed defects to ensure they do not reoccur.
o Output: Defect reports, defect status updates, retesting reports.
7. Test Closure
o Objective: Close the testing phase and ensure that testing is complete.
o Activities:
 Verify that all test cases have been executed and defects have been logged
and resolved.
 Prepare a test summary report that provides an overview of the testing
process, including the number of test cases executed, passed, failed, and
defects found.
 Conduct a retrospective to evaluate the testing process, identifying what
went well and areas for improvement.
  Archive test artifacts (test cases, test data, defect logs, and test reports) for
future reference.
 Get approval from stakeholders on the test completion status.
o Output: Test summary report, lessons learned, test closure documentation,
archived test artifacts.

Visual Representation of the STLC:

1. Requirement Analysis --> 2. Test Planning --> 3. Test Design --> 4.
Test Environment Setup
| | |
|
V V V
V
5. Test Execution <-- 6. Defect Reporting & Tracking <-- 7. Test
Closure
Key Benefits of STLC:

1. Structured Process: STLC provides a structured approach to testing, ensuring all

necessary activities are performed in a systematic manner.
2. Clear Roles and Responsibilities: The phases define clear roles for the testing team,
ensuring that all team members understand their responsibilities.
3. Improved Quality: By ensuring thorough test planning, design, execution, and defect
tracking, STLC helps improve the overall quality of the software.
4. Transparency: Each phase has defined deliverables, making it easy for stakeholders to
track the progress of testing.
5. Early Defect Detection: STLC promotes early defect detection by involving testing
early in the software development lifecycle, which leads to fewer defects in later stages
of development and production.

Challenges of STLC:

1. Time-Consuming: Some phases, particularly test case design and execution, can be
time-consuming and require a significant amount of effort.
2. Resource Intensive: Ensuring a fully dedicated and skilled testing team for each phase
of the STLC can be resource-intensive, especially in large projects.
3. Rigidity in Process: In some cases, the formalized structure of STLC can become rigid,
making it challenging to adapt to frequent requirement changes or agile workflows.
4. Overlapping Phases: While each phase is clearly defined, some activities may overlap,
leading to inefficiencies or confusion in large projects.

Unit-2

10.Explain White Box and Black Box testing

ANS:
 White Box Testing vs. Black Box Testing

White Box Testing and Black Box Testing are two of the most widely used software testing
methodologies. Both have distinct approaches, focuses, and testing objectives. Here’s a detailed
comparison between the two:

1. White Box Testing (Structural Testing)

Definition:
White Box Testing, also known as clear box testing, glass box testing, or structural testing,
involves testing the internal workings of an application. The tester has full access to the source
code, architecture, and logic of the system. It is primarily concerned with the internal logic and
structure of the code.

Key Characteristics:

 Access to Source Code: The tester has knowledge of the internal code, algorithms, and
architecture of the system.
 Test Coverage: The focus is on ensuring maximum code coverage, including:
o Code paths (testing all possible execution paths).
o Loops and conditionals (ensuring all loops and conditionals are tested).
o Branches (testing different branches and decision-making points in the code).
 Tools and Techniques:
o Code reviews and static analysis.
o Unit testing (testing individual units or components of the code).
o Code coverage tools (e.g., JaCoCo, Cobertura).
o Path testing (testing all possible paths in the code).
o Control flow testing (testing the flow of control in the program).

Examples of White Box Testing:

 Testing the algorithm used in the sorting functionality.

 Validating the flow of execution from one function to another.
 Ensuring all if-else conditions are tested.

Advantages:

 Thorough Testing: Since the tester has access to the code, white box testing can uncover
hidden errors and defects that might not be visible during black box testing.
 Code Optimization: It helps identify code inefficiencies, such as unreachable code, dead
code, or redundant logic.
 Early Detection of Bugs: Developers can identify and fix issues early in the
development process.
Disadvantages:

 Requires Knowledge of Code: Testers need to have a good understanding of the code
structure, algorithms, and programming languages used.
 Limited to Internal Logic: It doesn’t consider the user experience or functionality from
an external perspective.
 Complexity: Writing and maintaining test cases for complex logic can be time-
consuming.

2. Black Box Testing (Functional Testing)

Definition:
Black Box Testing, also known as functional testing, involves testing the functionality of the
software without any knowledge of the internal code structure. The tester focuses on verifying
the software’s behavior based on the requirements and specifications, treating the software as a
"black box" where inputs are given, and outputs are observed without worrying about the
internal processes.

Key Characteristics:

 No Access to Source Code: The tester is only concerned with testing the functionality of
the system and does not need to know how the system works internally.
 Test Coverage: Focuses on validating that the system meets the business requirements,
behaves correctly in all scenarios, and produces the expected outputs.
 Techniques Used:
o Equivalence partitioning (dividing input data into partitions to minimize
redundant testing).
o Boundary value analysis (testing the boundaries of input values).
o Decision table testing (using decision tables to identify test cases).
o State transition testing (testing the system’s behavior under different states).

Examples of Black Box Testing:

 Testing a login feature by entering valid and invalid usernames and passwords.
 Testing the behavior of a shopping cart by adding, removing, and modifying items.
 Verifying that a button click in the user interface performs the correct action.

Advantages:

 No Knowledge of Code Required: Testers do not need to understand the internal

workings of the system, which makes it suitable for non-technical testers (e.g., QA
specialists, business analysts).
 User-Centric: Focuses on the end-user experience, ensuring that the software meets user
expectations and business requirements.
  Effective for Regression Testing: Black box testing is often used for validating that new
code does not introduce issues in the existing functionality (regression testing).

Disadvantages:

 Limited Coverage: Since it focuses only on functional behavior, it may not provide
comprehensive coverage of the software’s internal logic, such as edge cases or untested
paths in the code.
 Difficulty in Identifying Specific Defects: Since the tester does not have insight into the
code, identifying the exact cause of defects can be difficult.
 Redundant Test Cases: It may lead to redundant test cases for similar inputs, which can
increase the testing effort.

Comparison Between White Box and Black Box Testing:

Aspect White Box Testing Black Box Testing

Tester has full access to the source

Access to Code Tester has no access to the internal code.
code.

Focus on internal code logic and

Focus Focus on functionality and user experience.
structure.

Based on internal code structure, Based on requirements, specifications, and

Test Basis
algorithms, and logic. user behavior.

Tester’s Requires knowledge of programming Does not require any programming

Skillset and the system’s internals. knowledge.

Tests internal workings (code paths, Tests external functionality and behaviors of
Test Coverage
branches, loops). the software.

Code coverage tools, static analysis Testing frameworks, manual testing, and user
Tools Used
tools, unit testing frameworks. scenario simulations.

Type of
Structural/White Box Testing. Functional/Black Box Testing.
Testing

Unit testing, integration testing (at the Functional testing, system testing, acceptance
Examples
code level), path testing. testing.

Thorough, finds hidden defects in code, Easy to perform, focuses on user experience,
Advantages
optimizes performance. no technical knowledge required.

Time-consuming, requires detailed May miss critical internal defects, limited by

Disadvantages
knowledge of the code. test case design.
When to Use White Box Testing:

 During unit testing to verify the correctness of individual functions or components.

 When you want to optimize code or improve performance.
 For security testing, such as penetration testing, where understanding the code’s
vulnerabilities is essential.
 During regression testing to ensure that code changes don’t introduce new bugs in
existing functionality.

When to Use Black Box Testing:

 During system testing to verify that the software meets the user’s functional
requirements.
 When you need to perform acceptance testing, ensuring the software meets business
needs.
 For usability testing, focusing on the overall user experience.
 When testing involves external interfaces or APIs without delving into the underlying
code.

11.Explain level of software testing in brief.

ANS:

Levels of Software Testing

Software testing can be categorized into different levels based on the scope, focus, and the stage
of development at which the testing is performed. Each level of testing serves a specific purpose
and helps ensure the overall quality and functionality of the software product.

Here are the main levels of software testing:

1. Unit Testing

 Objective: Test individual components or units of code in isolation to ensure they

function correctly.
 Scope: Smallest units of the software (e.g., functions, methods, classes).
 Performed By: Developers.
 Description: Unit testing involves testing the smallest pieces of code, usually at the
function or method level. The goal is to verify that each unit performs as expected. Unit
tests are usually automated and are run frequently during development.
  Tools: JUnit (Java), NUnit (.NET), PyTest (Python), etc.

2. Integration Testing

 Objective: Test the interaction between multiple units or modules to ensure they work
together as expected.
 Scope: Interfaces and interaction between different components or systems.
 Performed By: Developers or specialized testers.
 Description: Integration testing focuses on verifying that different modules or services of
the software communicate and work together properly. It can involve both internal
system integrations (within the application) and external integrations (such as APIs or
databases).
 Types:
o Top-Down Integration: Testing starts with the higher-level modules and
progressively integrates lower-level modules.
o Bottom-Up Integration: Testing starts with the lower-level modules and
integrates higher-level modules.
o Big Bang Integration: All modules are integrated and tested simultaneously.
 Tools: JUnit, TestNG, Postman (for API integration), SoapUI, etc.

3. System Testing

 Objective: Test the complete, integrated system to ensure that it meets the specified
requirements and works as expected in the intended environment.
 Scope: Entire system, including all components and interactions.
 Performed By: QA/Testers.
 Description: System testing is a comprehensive phase where the entire system is tested
in an environment that mimics the production environment. It involves testing all the
functionalities together to ensure that the system behaves as expected. System testing
verifies that the software meets functional, non-functional, and performance
requirements.
 Types: Functional testing, security testing, performance testing, usability testing, etc.
 Tools: Selenium, LoadRunner, JMeter, etc.

4. Acceptance Testing

 Objective: Test the system in a real-world or production-like environment to determine

whether it satisfies the business requirements and is ready for deployment.
 Scope: End-to-end functionality, usability, and user requirements.
 Performed By: End users or business stakeholders.
  Description: Acceptance testing verifies if the software meets business needs and is
ready for release to production. It includes two main types:
o Alpha Testing: Conducted by internal teams or developers to validate the
software internally.
o Beta Testing: Performed by a limited number of external users in real-world
environments to gather feedback and identify defects before release.
 Tools: User acceptance testing (UAT) tools, manual testing scripts, etc.

5. Regression Testing

 Objective: Ensure that recent code changes have not adversely affected the existing
functionality of the software.
 Scope: The entire application, but focused on the areas impacted by code changes.
 Performed By: QA/Testers.
 Description: Regression testing is performed after code changes, bug fixes, or new
features are added to ensure that existing functionalities still work as expected.
Automated tests are often used in regression testing to run a large number of tests quickly
and repeatedly.
 Tools: Selenium, QTP, Jenkins (for continuous integration), etc.

6. Smoke Testing

 Objective: Verify that the most crucial functionalities of the software work without
going into detail.
 Scope: Basic functionality of the application.
 Performed By: QA/Testers or Developers.
 Description: Smoke testing is a quick, shallow test to ensure that the software build is
stable enough for further, more in-depth testing. It is often called a "sanity check" to
ensure that the software doesn’t have major defects and is ready for further testing.
 Tools: Smoke testing can be manual or automated, depending on the project.

7. Sanity Testing

 Objective: Ensure that specific functionalities are working after changes, like bug fixes
or new features.
 Scope: Specific areas of the application.
 Performed By: QA/Testers.
 Description: Sanity testing is a subset of regression testing. It focuses on verifying that a
particular functionality or feature works correctly after modifications are made to the
code. If the changes are valid, testing can proceed; otherwise, further investigation is
required.
  Tools: Manual or automated testing.

8. Performance Testing

 Objective: Assess the speed, scalability, and stability of the application under various
conditions.
 Scope: Overall system performance, load handling, and stress resilience.
 Performed By: QA/Testers or performance testers.
 Description: Performance testing evaluates how the system behaves under load and
stress. It includes various sub-types such as:
o Load Testing: Checks how the system performs under expected load conditions.
o Stress Testing: Tests the system’s behavior under extreme conditions or beyond
expected limits.
o Scalability Testing: Measures the system's ability to scale when additional
resources (e.g., users, data) are added.
o Endurance Testing: Ensures the system can handle extended usage over a long
period.
 Tools: LoadRunner, Apache JMeter, NeoLoad, etc.

9. Security Testing

 Objective: Identify vulnerabilities in the application to ensure that it is secure from

threats and unauthorized access.
 Scope: Security aspects like authentication, authorization, data privacy, and network
security.
 Performed By: Security testers or ethical hackers.
 Description: Security testing involves assessing the system for security flaws such as
data breaches, unauthorized access, and potential vulnerabilities. It checks for potential
risks and ensures the software complies with security standards.
 Types: Penetration testing, vulnerability scanning, risk assessment.
 Tools: OWASP ZAP, Burp Suite, Nessus, etc.

10. Usability Testing

 Objective: Ensure the software is user-friendly and meets user expectations in terms of
interface, navigation, and experience.
 Scope: User interface, accessibility, user interactions.
 Performed By: End-users, UX/UI specialists.
 Description: Usability testing evaluates how easy and intuitive the software is to use. It
focuses on user interaction, design, and functionality, ensuring that the application meets
the needs of the target audience.
  Tools: UsabilityHub, Crazy Egg, Hotjar, etc.

12.Explain functional testing.

ANS:

Functional Testing

Definition:
Functional testing is a type of software testing that focuses on verifying whether the software
functions according to the specified requirements or functional specifications. The primary goal
of functional testing is to check if the application behaves as expected from a user's perspective,
ensuring that all features and functions work correctly.

Functional testing is concerned with what the system does, rather than how it does it (which is
the focus of non-functional testing like performance or security testing).

Key Characteristics of Functional Testing:

 Focus on Requirements: The test cases are based on the functional specifications or
requirements document, which outlines the expected behavior of the system.
 Black Box Testing: Functional testing is typically conducted from a black-box testing
perspective, meaning testers do not need to know the internal workings or source code of
the system. They focus purely on the system's functionality.
 End-User Perspective: The goal is to ensure that the software performs the tasks it is
supposed to do, just as the end user would expect it to.

Types of Functional Testing:

1. Unit Testing:
o Objective: Test individual components or functions in isolation.
o Performed By: Developers.
o Focus: Ensures that each function or method behaves correctly on its own,
producing the expected outputs for given inputs.
2. Smoke Testing:
o Objective: Perform an initial check of basic functionality to determine whether
the build is stable enough for further testing.
o Performed By: QA/testers or developers.
o Focus: Verifies the core features work as expected, such as user login, payment
processes, etc.
 3. Sanity Testing:
o Objective: Check if a particular feature works correctly after recent changes
(such as bug fixes or new functionality).
o Performed By: QA testers.
o Focus: Ensures that specific functionalities, which were impacted by changes, are
working as intended.
4. Integration Testing:
o Objective: Test the interaction between different modules or components.
o Performed By: Developers or testers.
o Focus: Ensures that different modules interact correctly with each other and data
flows seamlessly between them.
5. System Testing:
o Objective: Validate the complete system's functionality as a whole.
o Performed By: QA testers.
o Focus: Ensures that all system components work together to fulfill the
requirements and business objectives.
6. Regression Testing:
o Objective: Ensure that recent code changes or bug fixes have not negatively
affected the existing functionalities.
o Performed By: QA testers.
o Focus: Verifies that previously working features still function as expected after
updates or enhancements.
7. User Acceptance Testing (UAT):
o Objective: Verify that the software meets business needs and is acceptable to end
users.
o Performed By: End users or business stakeholders.
o Focus: Ensures the system meets the user’s requirements and expectations,
simulating real-world usage scenarios.

Steps in Functional Testing:

1. Requirement Analysis:
Understand the functional requirements of the application. This can include detailed
specifications, user stories, and use cases that describe the expected behavior.
2. Test Plan Creation:
Create a functional test plan that includes:
o The features to be tested.
o The approach to testing (manual or automated).
o Test data and environments.
o Test case design and expected results.
3. Test Case Design:
Write test cases based on functional specifications, including both positive and negative
test cases:
o Positive Test Cases: Ensure the system works as expected with valid input.
 o Negative Test Cases: Verify the system handles invalid input, edge cases, or
errors appropriately.
4. Test Execution:
Execute the test cases against the application and observe the actual behavior. Compare
the actual results with the expected results from the requirements.
5. Defect Reporting:
If any discrepancies or defects are found, report them in a defect tracking system with
detailed information, including steps to reproduce, severity, and screenshots.
6. Test Closure:
After executing the test cases and addressing any identified issues, conclude the testing
phase, ensuring all test cases are covered and pass the requirements.

Examples of Functional Testing:

 Login Functionality:
Testing if the login page accepts valid credentials (username and password) and correctly
denies access for invalid credentials.
 Form Submission:
Verifying that a user can fill in a form, submit it, and that the system stores or processes
the data as expected.
 Search Feature:
Ensuring that the search feature works correctly by returning relevant results based on
user queries.
 E-commerce Cart:
Verifying that items can be added to the shopping cart, quantities can be modified, and
the checkout process functions correctly.

13.Explain non-functional testing.

ANS:

Non-Functional Testing

Definition:
Non-functional testing refers to the testing of non-functional aspects of an application, such as its
performance, usability, security, scalability, and reliability, among other qualities. While functional
testing focuses on verifying the features and functionalities of a system (i.e., what the system does),
non-functional testing assesses how the system performs under various conditions.

In simple terms, non-functional testing ensures that the application meets various quality attributes
that influence the overall user experience and system performance.
Key Areas of Non-Functional Testing:

1. Performance Testing:
o Objective: Evaluate how well the software performs under various conditions, including
different loads and stress scenarios.
o Focus: Response times, system behavior under load, resource utilization, etc.
o Types of Performance Testing:
 Load Testing: Checks how the application behaves under normal and expected
user load (e.g., handling 1000 users concurrently).
 Stress Testing: Tests the system under extreme load conditions to find breaking
points (e.g., handling 10,000+ users).
 Scalability Testing: Determines how well the system can handle increased loads
by scaling the infrastructure.
 Endurance Testing (Soak Testing): Tests how the system behaves under a
prolonged period of continuous load to ensure it doesn’t fail due to memory
leaks or other issues.
2. Security Testing:
o Objective: Identify vulnerabilities, threats, and potential security risks in the software.
o Focus: Authentication, authorization, data encryption, confidentiality, integrity, and
availability of data.
o Types of Security Testing:
 Penetration Testing: Simulating attacks to find vulnerabilities.
 Vulnerability Scanning: Checking the application for known security flaws.
 Risk Assessment: Analyzing potential security risks and their impact.
 Authorization and Authentication Testing: Ensuring that proper user
authentication and access controls are in place.
3. Usability Testing:
o Objective: Ensure the software is user-friendly and intuitive to use, providing a good
user experience.
o Focus: Interface design, ease of use, accessibility, and how well users can navigate the
application.
o Types of Usability Testing:
 Exploratory Testing: Users try out the software without predefined test scripts
to explore the system’s usability.
 Task-Based Testing: Users complete specific tasks, and testers measure the ease
with which these tasks are performed.
4. Compatibility Testing:
o Objective: Check how the software works across different environments, platforms,
devices, browsers, etc.
o Focus: Compatibility with various operating systems, browsers, devices, and network
configurations.
o Types of Compatibility Testing:
 Browser Compatibility Testing: Ensures that the application works on different
web browsers (e.g., Chrome, Firefox, Safari).
 Operating System Compatibility Testing: Verifies the system works on different
OS versions (e.g., Windows, macOS, Linux).
  Mobile Compatibility Testing: Ensures compatibility with different mobile
devices and screen sizes.
5. Reliability Testing:
o Objective: Ensure that the software works consistently under specified conditions over
time.
o Focus: Software stability, error handling, and uptime.
o Types of Reliability Testing:
 Failure Testing: Simulating failures in the system to ensure that the application
handles them gracefully.
 Recovery Testing: Ensures the system can recover from crashes or hardware
failures.
6. Maintainability Testing:
o Objective: Assess how easy it is to maintain, update, and improve the software.
o Focus: Code readability, modularity, and the ease of applying patches or updates.
o Types of Maintainability Testing:
 Code Review: Ensuring that the code follows best practices for readability and
maintainability.
 Refactoring Impact Testing: Verifying that changes to the codebase do not
negatively impact the system.
7. Scalability Testing:
o Objective: Assess how well the software can handle an increasing amount of work or
can be enlarged to accommodate that growth.
o Focus: Ability of the system to scale in terms of load, users, and data.
o Types of Scalability Testing:
 Vertical Scaling: Adding more resources to a single server (e.g., more RAM,
CPU).
 Horizontal Scaling: Adding more servers to handle increased load.
8. Volume Testing:
o Objective: Check how the software handles large amounts of data.
o Focus: Performance of the system under large data loads, ensuring it processes and
stores data correctly without crashing.
o Types: Testing the application with a high volume of data to ensure the system can
handle large datasets without issues.
9. Compliance Testing:
o Objective: Verify that the system adheres to specific regulatory and compliance
standards.
o Focus: Adherence to legal, industry, or internal standards and regulations.
o Types: Ensures that the software meets standards for data protection (e.g., GDPR),
accessibility (e.g., WCAG), or industry-specific guidelines (e.g., HIPAA for healthcare).

Key Characteristics of Non-Functional Testing:

 Focus on Quality Attributes: Non-functional testing focuses on qualities that affect the overall
user experience and the long-term performance of the software, rather than on its specific
functionality.
  Performance-Centric: Many non-functional testing methods measure how well the system
performs under various conditions, such as load, stress, or long periods of usage.
 Real-World Scenarios: Non-functional testing often simulates real-world usage scenarios, such
as many users accessing the system at once or the software operating for extended periods.
 End-User Experience: Aspects such as usability and accessibility are critical to ensure the
application is practical and usable for the target audience.

Steps in Non-Functional Testing:

1. Requirement Analysis:
Understand the non-functional requirements, such as performance expectations, security
standards, and usability guidelines. This may include benchmarks, SLAs (Service Level
Agreements), or legal requirements.
2. Test Planning:
Create a non-functional test plan that defines the specific non-functional attributes to be tested,
such as load testing or security assessments. It should also include the tools, environments, and
resources needed.
3. Test Case Design:
Design test cases that focus on assessing non-functional characteristics of the system. This could
involve defining scenarios for performance under load, assessing the security of login systems,
or testing the application’s compatibility on various devices and browsers.
4. Test Execution:
Execute the test cases against the software, either manually or using automated testing tools.
For example, load testing might use a tool to simulate hundreds of users accessing the
application simultaneously.
5. Defect Reporting:
Document and report any issues found during non-functional testing. For example, if
performance is below acceptable standards or if the system is vulnerable to attacks, these issues
should be logged and prioritized for fixing.
6. Test Closure:
After completing the testing and addressing identified issues, ensure that all non-functional
aspects of the software are satisfactory before concluding the testing phase.

Examples of Non-Functional Testing:

 Performance Testing:
Test how a web application behaves when 5000 users access it simultaneously, checking its
response time and server load handling.
 Security Testing:
Conduct penetration testing to check for vulnerabilities such as SQL injection, cross-site scripting
(XSS), and unauthorized access.
 Usability Testing:
Have real users navigate the application to determine if the user interface is intuitive and easy
to understand, ensuring that users can complete tasks without confusion.
  Compatibility Testing:
Ensure that the web application renders correctly on multiple browsers (e.g., Chrome, Firefox,
Safari) and operates across different operating systems (e.g., Windows, macOS).

14.Differentiate functional testing vs non-functional testing.

ANS:

Difference Between Functional Testing and Non-Functional Testing

Both functional testing and non-functional testing are important aspects of software testing,
but they focus on different qualities of the software. Here's a detailed comparison:

1. Definition:

 Functional Testing:
Focuses on verifying whether the software functions according to the specified
requirements. It checks the what the system does, ensuring the correct output for given
inputs.
 Non-Functional Testing:
Focuses on testing the non-functional aspects of the software, such as its performance,
security, usability, and scalability. It checks the how the system performs under various
conditions.

2. Focus:

 Functional Testing:
Focuses on correctness and functionality. It ensures that all features and functionalities
work as expected according to the requirements.
o Example: Checking if a login page correctly accepts valid credentials and denies
invalid ones.
 Non-Functional Testing:
Focuses on the quality attributes such as speed, security, scalability, and user
experience. It evaluates how well the system performs and behaves under certain
conditions.
o Example: Testing how a website performs when thousands of users access it
simultaneously (performance testing).
3. Objective:

 Functional Testing:
The objective is to ensure the system meets all specified functional requirements and
performs the intended tasks.
 Non-Functional Testing:
The objective is to assess the system’s behavior and performance under various
operational conditions and its ability to meet user expectations for qualities like security
and usability.

4. Examples of Testing:

 Functional Testing:
o Unit Testing: Verifying the correctness of individual functions or methods.
o Integration Testing: Testing the interactions between different modules.
o System Testing: Verifying the overall behavior of the system.
o User Acceptance Testing (UAT): Ensuring the application meets user needs.
 Non-Functional Testing:
o Performance Testing: Assessing the speed and responsiveness of the system.
o Security Testing: Evaluating the system’s security vulnerabilities.
o Usability Testing: Testing the user-friendliness of the application.
o Load Testing: Verifying how the system behaves under increasing traffic or
usage.

5. Type of Testing Approach:

 Functional Testing:
Primarily involves black-box testing, where the internal workings of the system are not
considered. Testers focus on inputs and expected outputs.
 Non-Functional Testing:
Can involve both black-box and white-box testing, depending on the type. For example,
performance testing is generally black-box, while security testing might involve checking
code and internal system logic.

6. Methods of Evaluation:

 Functional Testing:
Evaluation is based on the correctness of output and whether the system performs its
expected functions.
  Non-Functional Testing:
Evaluation is based on performance metrics, such as speed, security vulnerabilities, and
overall user experience.

7. Tools:

 Functional Testing:
Tools include Selenium, QTP, JUnit, and TestNG for automating test cases that check the
functionality of the application.
 Non-Functional Testing:
Tools include LoadRunner, JMeter, Apache Benchmark, and security testing tools like
OWASP ZAP or Burp Suite for performance, load, and security testing.

8. Test Data:

 Functional Testing:
Test data is generally based on functional specifications or user stories. It involves
normal and edge cases, verifying whether inputs produce the correct outputs.
 Non-Functional Testing:
Test data is designed based on the operational environment and conditions such as high
load, stress, or security vulnerabilities.

9. Types of Bugs Found:

 Functional Testing:
Bugs related to incorrect functionality, such as broken features, incorrect outputs, or
missing features.
o Example: A button that doesn’t respond when clicked.
 Non-Functional Testing:
Bugs related to system performance, security flaws, scalability issues, and usability
concerns.
o Example: The application crashes when there are 500 simultaneous users, or
sensitive data is not encrypted.

10. Test Execution and Time:

 Functional Testing:
It is usually easier and faster to execute, as it primarily checks the correctness of
functionality based on predefined test cases.
  Non-Functional Testing:
It is typically more complex and time-consuming due to the need for specialized tools,
extensive resources, and larger testing environments (e.g., handling loads, simulating
attacks, etc.).

11. When to Perform:

 Functional Testing:
It is performed during the early stages of the software development life cycle (SDLC) and
is conducted more frequently, especially after every feature implementation.
 Non-Functional Testing:
It is typically performed after functional testing has been completed, usually in later
stages of the SDLC, especially before the release or during final acceptance phases.

15.Explain form level validation and filed level validation.

ANS:

Form Level Validation vs. Field Level Validation

Both form level validation and field level validation are techniques used to ensure the
correctness and quality of the data entered by users in a web form. However, they serve different
purposes and are applied at different levels of the form.

1. Field Level Validation:

Definition:
Field level validation refers to the process of validating each individual field in a form as soon as
the user interacts with it, typically when the user moves out of the field (focus leaves the field). It
checks whether the data entered in a specific field meets the defined criteria (e.g., required field,
format, range, etc.).

Key Characteristics:

 Per-Field Validation: Validates individual fields of the form (e.g., text input, dropdown,
radio buttons, etc.).
 Instant Feedback: Provides immediate feedback to the user when they enter incorrect
data or leave a field empty.
 Helps to Guide Users: Ensures that each input is validated before submission,
preventing the user from submitting incorrect or incomplete information.
Examples of Field Level Validation:

 Text Field Validation: Checks if the user has entered a value in a required text field
(e.g., ensuring an email field contains a valid email address format).
 Password Field Validation: Ensures the password follows certain rules like minimum
length or inclusion of numbers and special characters.
 Dropdown Validation: Ensures the user selects a valid option from a dropdown.
 Checkbox Validation: Checks if a checkbox (e.g., "I agree to the terms") is checked.

Advantages:

 Immediate feedback helps the user correct errors as they go.

 Reduces the chance of submitting a form with incorrect or incomplete data.

Disadvantages:

 Field level validation alone may not be enough, as it doesn't always ensure that the entire
form is valid once all fields are filled in.

2. Form Level Validation:

Definition:
Form level validation refers to the process of validating the entire form after all fields are filled
in and before the form is submitted. It checks the overall integrity of the form data and ensures
that all fields collectively meet the necessary validation rules before allowing submission.

Key Characteristics:

 Full Form Validation: Validates the complete set of form fields as a whole.
 Checks Multiple Conditions: Often checks interdependencies between fields (e.g.,
ensuring that the value in one field correlates with values in other fields).
 Occurs Before Submission: Happens when the user attempts to submit the form,
typically after field level validation has been performed.

Examples of Form Level Validation:

 Cross-field Validation: Ensures that the "Confirm Password" field matches the
"Password" field.
 Date Validation: Ensures that the start date is earlier than the end date in a form with
date range fields.
 Total Calculation Validation: In an order form, checks that the total price reflects the
quantity and price per item.
 Conditional Validation: Ensures that if one field is filled (e.g., "Country"), another field
(e.g., "State") is populated based on certain conditions.
Advantages:

 Ensures all the fields in the form are valid before submission, preventing the user from
submitting incomplete or inconsistent data.
 Can handle more complex validations that depend on multiple fields (e.g., ensuring that
the "Credit Card Expiry Date" is not in the past).

Disadvantages:

 Provides feedback only after the user attempts to submit the form, which can lead to
frustration if errors are many.
 Users may have to fix multiple errors at once, which could be overwhelming.

Key Differences Between Field Level Validation and Form Level Validation:
Aspect Field Level Validation Form Level Validation

When During user interaction with each After the user fills out all fields and tries to
Applied individual field. submit the form.

Focuses on individual fields, checking Validates the entire form, ensuring all fields are
Scope
their values. consistent and meet overall criteria.

Provides immediate feedback when

Feedback Provides feedback only when the user attempts
the user leaves a field or changes its
Timing to submit the form.
value.

Simple and quick validation for a single Can be more complex, as it may require checking
Complexity
field. interdependencies between fields.

Final validation before form submission, but

User Immediate error detection, enhancing
could delay form submission if errors are
Experience user experience.
present.

Email format check, password Cross-field validation (e.g., matching passwords),

Examples
strength, required fields. total calculations.

When to Use Field Level vs. Form Level Validation:

 Field Level Validation:

o Useful when you want to provide immediate feedback to the user as they fill out
the form.
o Great for simple, field-specific validation like required fields, format checks, and
basic constraints.
  Form Level Validation:
o Necessary when you need to ensure that all fields together meet specific rules,
such as matching passwords, date range correctness, or sum calculations.
o It is the final check before form submission to ensure no critical validation is
missed.

16.Give the difference between alpha testing and beta testing.

ANS:

Difference Between Alpha Testing and Beta Testing

Both Alpha Testing and Beta Testing are types of User Acceptance Testing (UAT), but they
occur at different stages of the software development lifecycle and involve different sets of users.
Here's a comparison of the two:

1. Definition:

 Alpha Testing:
o Alpha testing is the initial phase of testing that is done within the organization by
the development team or internal testers. It is typically performed after the
software has passed unit testing and integration testing but before it is released to
external users.
o It focuses on catching bugs or issues before the software is exposed to external
users.
 Beta Testing:
o Beta testing is the phase that follows Alpha Testing, where the software is
released to a limited group of external users (beta testers) outside the
development organization. The aim is to gather feedback on the software's
performance in real-world environments and identify issues that may not have
been caught in earlier testing phases.

2. Environment:

 Alpha Testing:
o Conducted in a controlled environment within the organization. It is performed
by internal staff, often including developers, testers, and other employees who
have knowledge of the software.
 Beta Testing:
 o Conducted in a real-world environment where the software is exposed to actual
users outside the organization. The feedback comes from real customers or end-
users who may not have prior knowledge of the system.

3. Testers:

 Alpha Testing:
o Performed by internal testers within the organization (e.g., developers, quality
assurance teams). These testers may have some knowledge of the software.
 Beta Testing:
o Performed by external testers or actual users, who are often end-users or
customers. These testers do not have insider knowledge of the software, so their
feedback is more representative of how real users will interact with it.

4. Purpose:

 Alpha Testing:
o The main goal is to identify and fix bugs and verify that the software is working
according to the specifications. It is more focused on finding and resolving
technical issues.
o It also helps ensure that the software is stable enough for external testing and can
handle a wider user base.
 Beta Testing:
o The main goal is to gather feedback from actual users to understand how the
software performs in real-world conditions. It focuses on usability, user
experience, and how the software functions in a variety of environments.
o It also helps identify any remaining bugs or issues that might have been
overlooked during earlier testing phases.

5. Testing Focus:

 Alpha Testing:
o Focuses on identifying technical issues like code bugs, crashes, performance
problems, and functional defects.
o The focus is primarily on internal functionality, ensuring the software works as
intended within the controlled development environment.
 Beta Testing:
o Focuses on usability and user experience (UX) by getting feedback from real
users.
o It also checks for environmental compatibility, meaning how the software
performs on different hardware, operating systems, and networks.
 o Users may identify bugs related to real-world usage that weren’t caught in
controlled environments.

6. Feedback:

 Alpha Testing:
o Feedback is gathered internally from developers and testers and is used to make
quick adjustments and fixes before the software is made available to external
users.
o The feedback is more technical in nature, focused on functionality and system
behavior.
 Beta Testing:
o Feedback is gathered from external users, often focusing on user experience,
usability, and performance in real-world scenarios.
o Feedback can be both technical and non-technical, addressing concerns like ease
of use, navigation issues, feature requests, and any technical bugs that affect the
end user.

7. Duration:

 Alpha Testing:
o Typically lasts a shorter period (usually a few weeks) and is done in several
cycles (often with different versions of the product).
 Beta Testing:
o Usually lasts a longer period (several weeks to months) and is conducted in a
single phase or with multiple beta releases.

8. Outcome:

 Alpha Testing:
o After alpha testing, the product is expected to be more stable and ready for the
beta phase. It may still contain bugs, but these should be fewer and less severe.
 Beta Testing:
o After beta testing, the product should be almost ready for release, with final
adjustments and fixes made based on user feedback. Any remaining critical issues
need to be addressed before the final product release.
9. Example:

 Alpha Testing:
o A company testing a new e-commerce platform internally with developers and
testers to check if all functionalities, like checkout and user registration, work as
expected before external testing begins.
 Beta Testing:
o A company releases the same e-commerce platform to a group of external users to
test how the platform performs under real-world conditions, gather feedback
about user experience, and identify any issues not caught during internal testing.

Unit-3

17. What is performance testing? Explain types of performance testing.

ANS:

What is Performance Testing?

Performance Testing is a type of software testing that evaluates how well a system performs in
terms of responsiveness, stability, and scalability under various conditions. The goal of
performance testing is to ensure that the software behaves as expected under normal and peak
loads, and that it can handle expected traffic or usage scenarios efficiently.

Performance testing helps to identify bottlenecks, scalability issues, and potential failures under
load, ensuring that the system meets performance requirements and expectations.

Types of Performance Testing:

There are several types of performance testing, each focusing on a specific aspect of the system's
performance. The main types include:

1. Load Testing:

Definition:
Load testing is used to test how a system performs under a specific load, such as a predefined
number of concurrent users or transactions. The goal is to determine whether the system can
handle the expected usage and load under normal conditions.

Purpose:
  To ensure the application can handle the expected number of users, requests, or
transactions without performance degradation.
 To identify the system's breaking point when the load exceeds the designed capacity.

Example: Testing a website that is expected to handle 500 simultaneous users to see how it
behaves under this load.

2. Stress Testing:

Definition:
Stress testing pushes the system beyond its normal operational capacity to evaluate how it
behaves under extreme stress or overload conditions. The goal is to find the system's breaking
point and identify how it recovers from failure.

Purpose:

 To assess the system's failure handling and recovery mechanisms.

 To determine the system’s ability to handle high levels of stress, ensuring it can
gracefully handle excessive load or crashes.

Example: Simulating thousands of users suddenly accessing a web application at once, far
beyond what the system is designed to handle, to see if it crashes or degrades in performance.

3. Spike Testing:

Definition:
Spike testing is a variant of stress testing that specifically involves suddenly increasing the load
(spike) on the system to assess its response to rapid changes in demand. This type of testing
helps to observe how the system reacts to unexpected traffic spikes.

Purpose:

 To check how well the system responds to sudden, sharp increases or decreases in load.
 To identify whether the system can handle abrupt surges in traffic and maintain
stability.

Example: Testing an e-commerce website's behavior during a flash sale, where traffic might
suddenly spike for a short duration and then drop again.
4. Endurance Testing (Soak Testing):

Definition:
Endurance testing, also known as soak testing, involves testing a system for an extended period
under a specified load to see how it performs over time. This tests the system's ability to handle a
sustained load and checks for issues such as memory leaks, slowdowns, and resource depletion
over time.

Purpose:

 To determine how well the system handles long-term use and whether it can sustain
performance over an extended period.
 To identify problems that may arise with continuous usage like memory leaks, system
degradation, or database connection issues.

Example: Running a web application for 48 hours under normal load to ensure that it does not
degrade in performance or experience memory-related issues.

5. Scalability Testing:

Definition:
Scalability testing is designed to determine how well a system can scale up or scale out to
handle increased load. This involves testing whether the system can scale vertically (by adding
more resources like CPU or memory) or horizontally (by adding more machines or servers) to
accommodate more users or transactions.

Purpose:

 To evaluate how effectively the system scales when demand increases.

 To determine the system's scaling limits and whether it can handle increasing workloads.

Example: Testing a cloud-based application to see how it performs as additional servers are
added to meet increased demand during peak usage.

6. Volume Testing:

Definition:
Volume testing (also known as flood testing) is the process of testing a system with a large
volume of data. This tests how the system performs when dealing with a large volume of data,
such as large files, databases, or transaction logs.

Purpose:
  To identify performance issues that arise when the system handles large volumes of data.
 To ensure that the system can process, store, and retrieve large amounts of data
efficiently.

Example: Testing a database system with millions of records to see how it handles large datasets
and whether it can perform queries or transactions efficiently.

7. Configuration Testing:

Definition:
Configuration testing evaluates the performance of the system under different hardware and
software configurations. It tests how changes in system components (like different servers,
network settings, or database configurations) affect performance.

Purpose:

 To evaluate how system configurations influence performance.

 To find optimal configurations for performance under different environmental conditions.

Example: Testing how a web application performs on different types of server hardware,
operating systems, or network configurations.

18. Explain Common Performance Problems in brief.

ANS:

Common Performance Problems in Software Systems

Performance problems can significantly impact the usability and efficiency of software
applications. These issues often arise when the system is unable to handle the expected load,
process data efficiently, or deliver results quickly. Here are some of the most common
performance problems in software systems:

1. High Latency

Definition:
Latency refers to the time delay between a request being made and the system's response.

Common Causes:
  Network delays or poor connectivity.
 Inefficient algorithms or code that takes longer to process requests.
 Overloaded servers or services.

Impact:
High latency leads to slow response times and poor user experience, especially in real-time
systems or applications requiring fast processing.

2. Memory Leaks

Definition:
Memory leaks occur when the system allocates memory but fails to release it after use, causing
the system to consume increasing amounts of memory over time.

Common Causes:

 Objects or resources are not properly deallocated after use.

 Inefficient garbage collection in programming languages like Java or C++.

Impact:
Memory leaks can cause the application to slow down, eventually leading to crashes or system
unresponsiveness as the available memory is exhausted.

3. High CPU Utilization

Definition:
High CPU utilization occurs when the CPU is overburdened with tasks and unable to process
requests efficiently, leading to slower performance.

Common Causes:

 Inefficient or infinite loops.

 Excessive computations or complex calculations that take up too many resources.
 Poorly optimized algorithms.

Impact:
When CPU usage is high, the system becomes unresponsive, and other tasks may be delayed,
leading to poor performance.
4. Database Bottlenecks

Definition:
Database bottlenecks occur when the database system is unable to process queries quickly
enough to meet the application's performance requirements.

Common Causes:

 Inefficient database queries (e.g., missing indexes, complex joins).

 High volume of concurrent database transactions.
 Insufficient database server resources (CPU, memory, disk space).

Impact:
Database bottlenecks can result in slow query processing, delayed responses, and overall poor
system performance.

5. Inefficient Algorithms and Code

Definition:
Inefficient algorithms or poorly written code can slow down the system, especially when
handling large amounts of data or performing complex tasks.

Common Causes:

 Use of inefficient sorting or searching algorithms (e.g., O(n^2) complexity).

 Lack of optimization in critical sections of code.
 Redundant operations or excessive database queries.

Impact:
Inefficient algorithms can lead to long processing times, especially as the amount of data or
complexity of tasks grows, resulting in slower overall performance.

6. Network Issues

Definition:
Network problems can introduce delays and reduce the performance of distributed systems, web
applications, and cloud-based services.

Common Causes:

 Poor network connectivity or bandwidth limitations.

 High network traffic or congestion.
 Network latency, especially when accessing remote services or cloud servers.
Impact:
Slow or unreliable network connections can cause delays in data transmission, increasing
response times and affecting user experience.

7. Resource Contention

Definition:
Resource contention occurs when multiple processes or threads compete for the same resources,
such as memory, CPU, or database connections, leading to delays or failures.

Common Causes:

 Multiple applications or processes trying to access the same resource simultaneously.

 Inefficient resource management in multi-threaded applications.

Impact:
Resource contention can cause system crashes, slowdowns, and decreased responsiveness,
especially under heavy load.

8. Disk I/O Bottlenecks

Definition:
Disk I/O bottlenecks occur when the system is slowed down by slow read/write operations to the
disk, often caused by inadequate disk speed or inefficient data handling.

Common Causes:

 Insufficient disk speed (e.g., using HDD instead of SSD).

 Large file operations or excessive disk read/write cycles.
 Poor database indexing or inefficient file handling.

Impact:
Disk I/O bottlenecks can cause slow data retrieval or file processing, leading to delayed
responses in applications that rely heavily on disk access.

9. Threading and Concurrency Issues

Definition:
Threading and concurrency issues arise in multi-threaded applications when multiple threads are
not properly synchronized, leading to race conditions, deadlocks, or thread contention.
Common Causes:

 Improper thread synchronization or locking mechanisms.

 Deadlocks, where two or more threads wait for each other to release resources.
 Insufficient thread pools leading to queue delays.

Impact:
Concurrency issues can cause the application to hang, crash, or perform unpredictably,
particularly in high-traffic environments.

10. Scalability Issues

Definition:
Scalability problems occur when the system fails to scale appropriately to handle increasing user
loads, data volumes, or transaction rates.

Common Causes:

 Lack of horizontal or vertical scaling mechanisms.

 Insufficient resource allocation for handling increased load.
 Inability to balance load effectively across servers or services.

Impact:
Poor scalability can lead to system outages or performance degradation as traffic or data volumes
increase, resulting in poor user experience and potential service disruptions.

11. Poor Load Balancing

Definition:
Load balancing issues occur when traffic or requests are not evenly distributed across servers or
services, leading to some servers being overloaded while others are underutilized.

Common Causes:

 Incorrect configuration of load balancers.

 Lack of sufficient load balancing algorithms.
 Server overload due to inadequate resource distribution.

Impact:
Uneven distribution of load can cause some parts of the system to become bottlenecked, leading
to slow response times, crashes, or unavailability.
12. Caching Problems

Definition:
Caching problems occur when the system fails to cache frequently accessed data or when the
cache is not properly invalidated, leading to unnecessary repeated computations or database
queries.

Common Causes:

 Cache misses or stale data in cache.

 Lack of caching for frequently accessed data.
 Incorrect cache invalidation or cache overflow.

Impact:
Without effective caching, the system may have to repeatedly process the same data or fetch it
from slower resources like the database, leading to performance degradation.

19. Explain Volume, Load and Stress Testing.

ANS:

Volume Testing, Load Testing, and Stress Testing

These are three distinct types of performance testing used to assess how a system behaves under
different conditions, focusing on the scalability, stability, and performance of the system under
varying workloads. Here's a detailed explanation of each:

1. Volume Testing

Definition: Volume Testing, also known as Flood Testing, is a type of performance testing
where the system is tested with a large volume of data to assess its performance under high data
load. The objective is to determine how the system handles large amounts of data and to identify
issues related to data storage, processing, and retrieval.

Purpose:

 To evaluate the system's ability to process and handle large volumes of data without
performance degradation.
 To check if the system experiences slowdowns, crashes, or memory issues when dealing
with large datasets.

Common Causes for Volume Issues:

  Poor database query performance when handling large datasets.
 Data storage limitations that cause slower retrieval or transaction processing.
 Inefficient indexing or handling of data in large tables.

Example: Testing a database by inserting millions of records and checking if the system can
handle the volume without slow queries or data retrieval issues.

2. Load Testing

Definition: Load Testing is a type of performance testing used to determine how a system
behaves under a normal, expected load. This load typically involves simulating a certain
number of users or transactions to evaluate the system's response time, stability, and performance
under typical operational conditions.

Purpose:

 To ensure that the system can handle the expected number of concurrent users,
transactions, or requests.
 To identify any performance bottlenecks under regular load and ensure that the system
operates within the acceptable performance criteria.

Key Points:

 Expected Load: This testing is based on real-world usage scenarios, with the system
tested for the number of users or transactions it is designed to handle.
 Response Time: It checks if the system’s response time is within the acceptable range
when the expected load is applied.

Example: Testing a web application expected to handle 1,000 users simultaneously to see if the
server can handle the traffic without significant delay or crashes.

3. Stress Testing

Definition: Stress Testing is a type of performance testing that involves testing a system beyond
its normal operational capacity to see how it handles extreme conditions or stressful
scenarios. The goal is to determine the system's breaking point and evaluate how it behaves
when the load exceeds the system's maximum capacity.

Purpose:

 To evaluate how the system behaves under extreme load or overload conditions.
 To determine the system’s breaking point, or how much load it can handle before it
crashes or becomes unresponsive.
  To assess how well the system recovers after failure and whether it maintains data
integrity.

Common Causes for Stress Issues:

 Insufficient server resources (CPU, memory, etc.).

 Lack of proper load balancing, leading to server overload.
 Poorly optimized code that can’t handle high concurrent requests.

Example: Simulating a traffic surge of 10,000 users accessing an e-commerce website during a
sale event to determine how the system behaves under peak load and whether it crashes, slows
down, or recovers.

20. What is the need of user acceptance testing?

ANS:

Need for User Acceptance Testing (UAT)

User Acceptance Testing (UAT) is the final phase in the software testing process, where the
intended users of the software validate whether the system meets their business requirements and
is ready for production deployment. UAT is crucial to ensure that the application is fit for
purpose and fulfills the users' needs in a real-world environment. Below are the key reasons why
UAT is essential:

1. Verifies the System Meets Business Requirements

UAT ensures that the software works as expected and meets the functional and non-functional
requirements specified by the business. It confirms that the product delivers the expected value
to the business stakeholders and performs the tasks it was designed to do.

Benefit:

 Helps to ensure that the end users' expectations are met, and that the system aligns with
the business goals.

2. Reduces the Risk of Failure Post-Deployment

By testing the application in a real-world environment with actual users before release, UAT
helps identify issues that may have been missed during earlier testing phases. This ensures that
problems are resolved before the system goes live, minimizing the risk of failures after
deployment.

Benefit:

 Helps avoid costly errors or system failures once the software is in production.

3. Ensures Usability and User-Friendliness

During UAT, actual users interact with the system and can provide valuable feedback on its
usability. They can identify areas where the user interface (UI) or user experience (UX) could be
improved to make the system easier to use.

Benefit:

 Improves the user experience by ensuring the software is intuitive and meets the user's
needs and expectations.

4. Validates the End-to-End Workflow

UAT tests the system from the perspective of the user, validating that all end-to-end workflows
are functioning correctly and efficiently. This helps confirm that the software works properly in
the context of real business processes and scenarios.

Benefit:

 Ensures that all components of the system integrate seamlessly and work together in the
real-world context.

5. Confirms System Performance in Real-World Conditions

While performance testing assesses how the system handles technical and load requirements,
UAT tests the system in real-world conditions, ensuring it performs well under practical usage
scenarios. This helps to uncover any performance bottlenecks that might have been overlooked
during earlier testing phases.

Benefit:

 Ensures that the system will perform optimally when used by the actual users in real-life
situations.
6. Involves Stakeholders in the Testing Process

UAT directly involves end users and business stakeholders, giving them a chance to interact
with the system and provide input. This ensures that all parties involved in the system’s use are
satisfied and have their concerns addressed before the software is released.

Benefit:

 Increases stakeholder confidence and ensures their needs are taken into account.

7. Helps Ensure Compliance and Regulatory Requirements

For applications that are subject to industry standards, compliance regulations, or specific legal
requirements (e.g., healthcare, finance), UAT ensures the software adheres to these rules. This is
particularly important when regulatory compliance is a requirement for the software’s operation.

Benefit:

 Helps avoid legal and financial penalties by ensuring compliance with regulations and
industry standards.

8. Detects Issues Not Found in Earlier Testing Phases

During earlier stages of testing (like system testing or integration testing), the focus is often on
technical functionality and code quality. UAT, however, tests the system from the user’s
perspective, often uncovering issues related to business processes, workflows, or UI that might
not have been identified earlier.

Benefit:

 Uncovers issues that may have been missed in other types of testing, including business
logic errors or workflow issues.

9. Increases User Satisfaction and Confidence

When users have the opportunity to participate in testing and see their feedback incorporated into
the final product, they feel more confident and satisfied with the software. UAT helps ensure that
the software meets their expectations, making them more likely to adopt it once it's in
production.
Benefit:

 Boosts user confidence and satisfaction with the software, leading to a smoother
adoption process.

10. Final Approval for Release

UAT serves as the final approval process before the software is released to production. If the
system passes UAT, it indicates that it is ready for deployment, and the users have officially
signed off on it.

Benefit:

 Provides formal approval to deploy the application into the live environment, ensuring
that all requirements have been met.

21. How to do UAT Testing?

ANS:

How to Perform User Acceptance Testing (UAT)

User Acceptance Testing (UAT) is a critical phase of the software testing lifecycle, where the
end-users verify if the system meets their business needs and if it's ready for production. Here's a
step-by-step guide on how to conduct UAT effectively:

1. Define UAT Objectives and Scope

Before starting UAT, it's essential to clearly define the objectives and scope of the testing. The
objectives should be aligned with the business requirements to ensure the system meets the user's
needs.

 Objectives:
o Verify the system meets business requirements.
o Ensure the software is user-friendly and meets usability standards.
o Validate the system’s behavior in real-world scenarios.
 Scope:
o Specify which functionalities, modules, and features will be tested.
o Decide if the testing will be end-to-end or focus on specific workflows.
o Identify the user roles and data scenarios that need to be tested.
2. Select UAT Participants

UAT should involve end-users or business stakeholders who are familiar with the business
processes and requirements. These participants will test the system from the perspective of the
end-user.

 Key Participants:
o Business Analysts
o End-users (those who will actually use the system)
o Stakeholders (product owners, project managers)
 Considerations:
o Users should have a good understanding of business workflows and how the
system will be used.
o A mix of users with different roles (e.g., admin, regular users) may be needed
depending on the system.

3. Prepare UAT Test Plan

A well-defined UAT Test Plan ensures that the testing process is systematic and organized.

 Key Components of a UAT Test Plan:

o Test Objectives: What the test is aiming to achieve (e.g., validate business
processes).
o Test Scope: Which features or functionalities will be tested.
o Resources Required: List of people, environments, and tools needed.
o Testing Criteria: Define the success criteria for UAT (e.g., passing all critical
business workflows).
o Test Environment: A setup that mimics the production environment to provide a
realistic testing scenario.
o Timeline and Schedule: Define the start and end dates for UAT, including key
milestones.

4. Develop UAT Test Cases

Test cases should be created based on the business requirements and real-world scenarios to
ensure that the software will work as expected when deployed in a production environment.

 Key Aspects to Consider When Writing Test Cases:

o Each test case should reflect a real business scenario that the software is
intended to handle.
 oInclude positive and negative test cases to verify that the system behaves
correctly under different conditions.
o Ensure that the test cases cover all critical business workflows, edge cases, and
exception handling.
 Format of UAT Test Case:
o Test Case ID
o Description
o Preconditions
o Test Steps
o Expected Results
o Actual Results
o Status (Pass/Fail)

5. Set Up UAT Environment

The UAT environment should closely replicate the production environment, including
hardware, software, network configurations, and data.

 UAT Environment Setup:

o Configuration: Ensure the system is set up to match the live environment as
closely as possible.
o Data Preparation: Use realistic data that reflects actual business scenarios (e.g.,
customer records, transaction data).
o Access Permissions: Make sure testers have the necessary permissions to access
the parts of the system they need to validate.

6. Execute UAT Test Cases

The end-users or stakeholders begin executing the test cases based on the predefined test scripts.
They validate that the software performs as expected and meets the business requirements.

 Steps for Execution:

1. Test the System: Execute the test cases and follow the test steps provided in the
test script.
2. Record Results: After completing each test case, document the actual results and
compare them with the expected results.
3. Log Defects: If any issues or bugs are encountered during testing, document
them, including a description of the issue, steps to reproduce, and severity level.
4. Collaborate with Development Team: Work with developers to resolve any
defects found, and retest as necessary.
7. Review and Sign Off

Once all test cases are executed, the results should be reviewed by the project team and
stakeholders to confirm the system meets the business needs. UAT is considered successful if it
meets the acceptance criteria.

 Key Points for Review:

o Pass Rate: The percentage of passed test cases versus failed ones.
o Defect Analysis: A review of all reported defects, their severity, and their
resolution status.
o Feedback: Collect feedback from users regarding the functionality, usability, and
performance of the system.
 Sign-off: If the system passes UAT with all critical issues addressed, the stakeholders
will sign off on the system, approving it for release to production.

8. Defect Resolution and Retesting

If any issues or defects are identified during UAT, the development team should resolve them,
and retesting should be performed to confirm that the fixes work correctly.

 Steps for Defect Resolution:

1. Log defects in the tracking system (e.g., JIRA, Bugzilla).
2. Developers fix the issues.
3. The test cases affected by the defects are re-executed to ensure the issues are
fixed and that no new issues have been introduced.

9. Final Validation

After defect fixes and retesting, the final UAT results are reviewed, and a final go/no-go
decision is made. If the system is deemed ready, it will be approved for deployment to the live
environment.

10. Documentation and Reporting

Document the entire UAT process for future reference and audits. The documentation should
include:

 UAT test cases and results.

 Defect logs and their resolutions.
 Sign-off documentation from business stakeholders.
22. Describe types of Security Testing.

ANS:

Types of Security Testing

Security testing is a crucial part of the software development process that ensures the system is
free from vulnerabilities, threats, and risks that could compromise its confidentiality, integrity, or
availability. The goal is to identify any potential flaws or weaknesses in the system that could be
exploited by malicious users. Below are the different types of security testing:

1. Vulnerability Scanning

Definition: Vulnerability scanning is an automated process where tools are used to scan the
application, network, or system for known vulnerabilities.

Purpose:

 To identify known security weaknesses (e.g., outdated software, missing patches).

 To check for misconfigurations that may lead to vulnerabilities.

How It Works:

 Scanning tools compare the system to a database of known vulnerabilities and report any
matches.
 The vulnerabilities are typically related to outdated libraries, operating systems, or
software versions.

Tools:

 OpenVAS, Nessus, Qualys, etc.

2. Penetration Testing (Pen Test)

Definition: Penetration testing simulates real-world cyberattacks to identify vulnerabilities that

could be exploited by an attacker. This is a manual and systematic testing process.

Purpose:

 To test how a system or network responds to a simulated attack.

 To find security weaknesses that could lead to unauthorized access, data leakage, or
service disruptions.
How It Works:

 Ethical hackers attempt to exploit vulnerabilities in the system (e.g., SQL injection,
Cross-Site Scripting (XSS), buffer overflow).
 The test focuses on breaking into the system using a variety of methods to assess its
resilience.

Tools:

 Metasploit, Burp Suite, OWASP ZAP, etc.

3. Risk Assessment

Definition: Risk assessment involves evaluating the security risks that could affect the system,
based on potential vulnerabilities, threats, and impact.

Purpose:

 To prioritize security issues based on the severity of their impact.

 To assess the likelihood and potential damage of a security breach or attack.

How It Works:

 Security risks are identified, and their impact is analyzed in terms of business value,
system functionality, and data protection.
 It involves both qualitative and quantitative analysis.

Tools:

 CRAMM, OCTAVE, FAIR, etc.

4. Security Auditing

Definition: Security auditing is the process of reviewing and evaluating the security of a system,
application, or network. It involves examining system logs, configurations, and settings to ensure
compliance with security policies.

Purpose:

 To ensure the system adheres to security standards and practices.

 To identify any lapses in security governance, policies, or controls.

How It Works:
  Auditors check for proper implementation of security measures, such as user access
controls, encryption protocols, and patch management.
 Security audits are often mandatory for compliance with standards like GDPR, HIPAA,
PCI-DSS.

Tools:

 SolarWinds, Nessus, OpenVAS, etc.

5. Security Posture Assessment

Definition: Security posture assessment evaluates the overall security of an organization’s

infrastructure. This assessment takes into account all of the organization’s hardware, software,
network, and policies.

Purpose:

 To assess the strength and resilience of an organization’s security system as a whole.

 To determine if the organization’s security practices align with industry standards and
regulations.

How It Works:

 The security posture is evaluated against best practices, regulatory requirements, and
industry standards.
 It focuses on identifying the current security gaps and areas for improvement.

Tools:

 SecurityScorecard, Qualys, etc.

6. Authentication Testing

Definition: Authentication testing verifies the process of validating a user’s identity within a
system. It focuses on ensuring that only authorized users can access the system.

Purpose:

 To ensure that the authentication mechanism is robust and not susceptible to attacks like
credential stuffing or brute force attacks.

How It Works:
  Test cases include testing login mechanisms, password policies, multi-factor
authentication (MFA), and account lockouts.
 It also includes ensuring that proper user roles and permissions are applied.

Examples of Tests:

 Password strength testing: Ensuring passwords are sufficiently complex.

 Session handling: Checking for session hijacking or session fixation.

7. Authorization Testing

Definition: Authorization testing ensures that the system grants users access only to resources
they are permitted to use, based on their role or permissions.

Purpose:

 To verify that users can only access the functionality and data they are authorized to use,
preventing privilege escalation and unauthorized access.

How It Works:

 Testers try to bypass role-based access controls (RBAC) by elevating privileges.

 Test cases include verifying user access rights for different roles and ensuring sensitive
data is properly protected.

Examples of Tests:

 Ensuring a regular user cannot access admin-level features.

 Testing for vertical or horizontal privilege escalation.

8. Session Management Testing

Definition: Session management testing checks the robustness of session handling mechanisms,
such as session expiration, secure cookies, and session timeouts.

Purpose:

 To prevent issues like session hijacking and session fixation.

 To ensure that the system properly manages session cookies and user sessions.

How It Works:

 Testers simulate attacks such as stealing or fixing session tokens.

  Test the system for secure session expiration, secure cookie attributes (e.g., HttpOnly,
Secure), and whether sessions are properly invalidated upon logout.

9. Data Encryption Testing

Definition: Data encryption testing verifies that sensitive data, whether in transit or at rest, is
properly encrypted and cannot be read by unauthorized parties.

Purpose:

 To protect sensitive information such as passwords, credit card details, and personal data
from interception or unauthorized access.

How It Works:

 Testers check if data is encrypted using strong encryption algorithms like AES or RSA.
 They test whether data is encrypted during transmission (using SSL/TLS) and when
stored in the database (data at rest).

Examples of Tests:

 Verifying SSL/TLS encryption for web communications.

 Checking that sensitive data is stored in encrypted form.

10. Compliance Testing

Definition: Compliance testing ensures that the system complies with various security
standards, regulations, and industry best practices. This is important for systems dealing with
sensitive data or those in regulated industries.

Purpose:

 To ensure that the software meets legal, regulatory, and industry-specific security
requirements (e.g., PCI-DSS, HIPAA, GDPR).

How It Works:

 Testers check that the system adheres to the applicable standards and regulations.
 Compliance testing often involves audits and assessments to evaluate the system’s
adherence to security policies.

Tools:
  PCI DSS Scanning tools, HIPAA compliance checklists, etc.

11. Disaster Recovery Testing

Definition: Disaster recovery testing evaluates how well the system can recover from a disaster,
such as a cyberattack or system failure.

Purpose:

 To verify that the system has mechanisms in place for recovery in case of catastrophic
events.
 To ensure business continuity and minimal downtime.

How It Works:

 Testers simulate disaster scenarios and validate if the system can recover within the
designated Recovery Time Objective (RTO) and Recovery Point Objective (RPO).
 It includes testing backup and restore processes and failover mechanisms.

12. Network Security Testing

Definition: Network security testing focuses on evaluating the security of the network
infrastructure, including firewalls, routers, and communication protocols.

Purpose:

 To identify vulnerabilities in network configurations and ensure that network traffic is

protected from attacks like man-in-the-middle (MITM), DoS, and DDoS.

How It Works:

 Testers assess network traffic for potential threats and weaknesses in firewalls, VPNs,
and security protocols.
 They also check for insecure network services or open ports that could be exploited.

Tools:

 Wireshark, Nmap, Nessus, etc.

 Unit-4

23. Discuss testing guideline in brief.

ANS:

Testing Guidelines

Testing is an essential phase in the software development lifecycle, ensuring that the software
product meets the required quality standards. Having clear and well-defined testing guidelines
helps improve the testing process, ensuring consistency, accuracy, and effectiveness. Below are
some essential testing guidelines to follow:

1. Understand Requirements Thoroughly

 Guideline: Ensure a thorough understanding of the software requirements, both

functional and non-functional, before starting the testing process.
 Why it’s important: Clear knowledge of requirements helps identify the scope of testing
and ensures that all required features and scenarios are covered.

Action Steps:

 Review requirements documentation, use cases, and user stories.

 Engage with stakeholders, business analysts, and developers to clarify any uncertainties.

2. Define Clear Testing Objectives

 Guideline: Set clear and measurable objectives for the testing process.
 Why it’s important: Objectives help guide the testing efforts, ensuring that the most
critical aspects of the system are prioritized and tested thoroughly.

Action Steps:

 Align testing goals with business objectives (e.g., functionality, security, performance).
 Define success criteria for passing the tests.

3. Create Comprehensive Test Cases

 Guideline: Develop detailed and comprehensive test cases that cover a wide range of
scenarios, including positive, negative, edge, and boundary cases.
 Why it’s important: Well-written test cases ensure that all aspects of the software are
tested, reducing the risk of missing defects.
Action Steps:

 Test cases should be clear, concise, and unambiguous.

 Each test case should have well-defined inputs, expected results, and preconditions.

4. Test Early and Often (Shift Left)

 Guideline: Start testing early in the software development lifecycle and test continuously
(Shift Left).
 Why it’s important: Early testing helps identify issues sooner, which reduces costs and
improves software quality over time.

Action Steps:

 Perform unit testing, integration testing, and functional testing during development.
 Automate testing for frequent, repetitive tasks.

5. Prioritize Test Scenarios

 Guideline: Prioritize test scenarios based on their impact on the system and the
probability of failure.
 Why it’s important: Focusing on high-priority scenarios ensures that critical
functionalities are tested first, optimizing the use of limited resources.

Action Steps:

 Use risk-based testing to identify high-risk areas.

 Focus on critical paths and frequently used features.

6. Maintain Test Traceability

 Guideline: Maintain traceability between requirements, test cases, and defects to ensure
coverage and accountability.
 Why it’s important: Traceability helps in understanding which requirements have been
tested and ensures no functionality is overlooked.

Action Steps:

 Use tools like Requirement Traceability Matrix (RTM) to track requirements

coverage.
 Link test cases to specific business requirements.
7. Conduct Different Types of Testing

 Guideline: Use various testing types (unit, integration, system, acceptance, performance,
security, etc.) to ensure complete coverage.
 Why it’s important: Different types of testing address various aspects of the software
and ensure that all potential issues are identified.

Action Steps:

 Perform functional testing to ensure the software works as expected.

 Conduct non-functional testing to evaluate performance, security, and scalability.
 Execute regression testing to ensure new changes don't break existing functionality.

8. Ensure Proper Test Environment Setup

 Guideline: Ensure that the testing environment mimics the production environment as
closely as possible.
 Why it’s important: A well-configured test environment ensures that testing results are
valid and reflect real-world conditions.

Action Steps:

 Set up hardware, software, network configurations, and databases that closely resemble
the production environment.
 Ensure proper data setup (e.g., realistic data sets for performance testing).

9. Test for Usability and User Experience

 Guideline: In addition to functional testing, also test for usability and the overall user
experience.
 Why it’s important: A product can be functional but difficult to use. Ensuring usability
helps provide a better experience for the end-users.

Action Steps:

 Conduct user acceptance testing (UAT) with real end-users.

 Ensure that the system’s interface is intuitive, easy to navigate, and consistent.
10. Perform Negative and Boundary Testing

 Guideline: Test for negative cases and boundary conditions to ensure the system handles
unexpected or edge cases gracefully.
 Why it’s important: Negative testing helps identify potential failure points, while
boundary testing ensures the system behaves correctly at the limits of its input.

Action Steps:

 Test for invalid inputs (e.g., incorrect data, missing values, etc.).
 Test for boundary conditions (e.g., maximum length fields, edge cases).

11. Automate Repetitive Test Cases

 Guideline: Automate repetitive and time-consuming test cases, particularly for

regression testing.
 Why it’s important: Automation increases efficiency, speeds up testing, and ensures
consistent results.

Action Steps:

 Use automation tools for regression testing and smoke testing.

 Ensure that automated test scripts are well-maintained and updated as the application
evolves.

12. Focus on Defect Management

 Guideline: Log, track, and manage defects properly to ensure efficient resolution.
 Why it’s important: A well-organized defect management process ensures that issues
are addressed promptly and that software quality improves over time.

Action Steps:

 Use defect-tracking tools (e.g., JIRA, Bugzilla) to log, assign, and track defects.
 Prioritize defects based on severity and impact.

13. Regularly Review Test Results

 Guideline: Regularly review test results to identify trends, risks, and areas for
improvement.
  Why it’s important: Analyzing test results helps detect recurring issues and improve the
testing process.

Action Steps:

 Review test reports, including pass/fail rates, defect trends, and test coverage.
 Use insights from previous tests to improve test cases and strategies.

14. Continuous Feedback and Communication

 Guideline: Maintain continuous communication among team members and stakeholders

throughout the testing process.
 Why it’s important: Clear communication ensures that everyone is on the same page
and allows for faster decision-making and issue resolution.

Action Steps:

 Hold regular test status meetings to discuss progress, challenges, and results.
 Provide feedback to developers and stakeholders early in the process.

15. End-to-End Testing for Critical Systems

 Guideline: For critical systems, perform end-to-end testing to verify that all components
and systems work together seamlessly.
 Why it’s important: End-to-end testing ensures that all parts of the system are
functioning together as expected, including integrations with external systems.

Action Steps:

 Test the entire system flow, from the user interface to the backend systems.
 Include external systems, such as third-party services, APIs, or databases.

24. Explain Different Components of the Test Strategy document.

ANS:

Components of the Test Strategy Document

A Test Strategy Document is a high-level document that outlines the overall testing approach,
objectives, resources, schedule, and deliverables for the testing process in a software project. It
serves as a guide for the entire testing team and ensures that all stakeholders understand how the
testing will be conducted, the scope of testing, and the tools and resources involved.

The following are the key components of a Test Strategy Document:

1. Test Strategy Overview

 Purpose: The overview section provides a summary of the testing goals, scope, and the
importance of testing within the context of the project.
 Content:
o High-level objectives of the testing effort.
o Key testing goals (e.g., to ensure the software meets business requirements, to
identify and resolve defects).
o An outline of the testing approach (e.g., functional testing, non-functional testing,
manual and automated testing).

2. Test Scope

 Purpose: This section defines the boundaries of the testing process, specifying what will
and won’t be tested during the testing phase.
 Content:
o In-Scope: Features, functions, or areas of the system that will be tested.
o Out-of-Scope: Aspects of the system that will not be tested (e.g., third-party
components, certain features, etc.).
o Test Levels: Specify which levels of testing (unit testing, integration testing,
system testing, etc.) will be performed.
o Types of Testing: Identify which types of testing will be performed (functional,
performance, security, usability, etc.).

3. Test Objectives

 Purpose: Test objectives outline the specific goals that the testing team aims to achieve
during the testing process.
 Content:
o Examples: Ensuring the system meets specified requirements, validating business
processes, identifying defects, verifying security, ensuring performance meets
standards, and validating system usability.
4. Test Deliverables

 Purpose: This section specifies all the documents, reports, and results that will be
delivered throughout and at the end of the testing process.
 Content:
o Test plan, test cases, and test scripts.
o Test execution results and defect reports.
o Test summary report and final test results.
o Logs for defects, changes, or testing sessions.

5. Test Environment

 Purpose: This section outlines the environment and configuration in which testing will
take place.
 Content:
o Hardware and software requirements (e.g., operating systems, databases, web
servers).
o Test data needs and setup (e.g., realistic test data, mock data).
o Network configuration, including testing on different environments (e.g.,
development, staging, production).
o Tools and utilities required for testing (e.g., test management tools, automation
tools, performance testing tools).

6. Testing Tools

 Purpose: This section identifies the tools that will be used throughout the testing process.
 Content:
o Test Management Tools: Tools for managing test cases, test execution, and
defect tracking (e.g., JIRA, TestRail).
o Automation Tools: Tools for automating repetitive test cases (e.g., Selenium,
QTP, TestComplete).
o Performance Testing Tools: Tools for load, stress, and performance testing (e.g.,
LoadRunner, JMeter).
o Defect Tracking Tools: Tools to track and manage defects (e.g., Bugzilla, JIRA).

7. Test Schedule and Milestones

 Purpose: This section provides a timeline for the testing process, including major
milestones and deadlines.
 Content:
 o Key milestones such as the completion of test planning, test case development,
test execution, and defect resolution.
o Estimated start and end dates for each testing phase.
o Resource allocation, including the number of testers required and their roles.

8. Test Team Roles and Responsibilities

 Purpose: This section defines the roles and responsibilities of each team member
involved in the testing process.
 Content:
o Test Manager: Responsible for overall test planning, resource allocation, and
progress tracking.
o Test Analysts: Responsible for test case design, execution, and reporting results.
o Automation Engineers: Responsible for creating and maintaining automated test
scripts.
o Developers: Responsible for fixing defects found during testing and providing
development support.
o Business Analysts: Responsible for providing functional requirements and
clarifications.

9. Risk Management and Mitigation Plan

 Purpose: This section outlines the potential risks that could impact the testing process
and strategies for mitigating them.
 Content:
o Risk Identification: Common risks include insufficient test coverage, lack of test
data, delays in environment setup, tight project timelines, or lack of experienced
testers.
o Risk Mitigation: Define strategies to minimize risks, such as prioritizing critical
test cases, utilizing automated testing, or managing scope changes effectively.

10. Test Metrics and Reporting

 Purpose: This section defines the key metrics that will be used to measure the
effectiveness of the testing process and report progress.
 Content:
o Metrics include defect density, test case pass rate, test coverage, test execution
progress, and defect resolution time.
o Define the frequency of test reporting (e.g., daily, weekly) and the content of the
reports (e.g., defect status, test progress).
11. Communication and Escalation Plan

 Purpose: This section outlines how communication will be handled during the testing
process and what actions will be taken in case of critical issues or delays.
 Content:
o Communication Channels: Define how and when test results, issues, and
progress will be communicated to stakeholders (e.g., daily stand-ups, emails,
reports).
o Escalation Process: Define a clear path for escalating issues, such as unaddressed
defects or testing delays, to higher management.

12. Entry and Exit Criteria

 Purpose: This section defines the conditions that must be met to start and finish a
particular testing phase.
 Content:
o Entry Criteria: Prerequisites for starting testing (e.g., complete requirements,
test environment set up, test cases ready).
o Exit Criteria: Conditions for completing a testing phase (e.g., all planned tests
executed, defects resolved or deferred, test objectives met).

13. Test Completion and Closure

 Purpose: This section outlines the process for closing the testing phase once it has been
completed.
 Content:
o Define what constitutes the completion of testing (e.g., all tests executed, no
critical defects pending, exit criteria met).
o Document lessons learned, testing effectiveness, and any recommendations for
future testing.

25. Explain test planning.

ANS:

Test Planning

Test Planning is the process of defining the scope, approach, resources, and schedule for testing
activities in a software development project. It outlines how the testing process will be carried
out, detailing everything from the types of testing to be performed to the resources and tools
needed. A well-crafted test plan helps ensure the project meets its quality goals, and that testing
is conducted efficiently and effectively.

Key Elements of a Test Plan

A Test Plan generally includes the following components:

1. Test Plan Identifier

 Purpose: It is a unique identifier or name for the test plan document. This helps in
tracking the plan and distinguishing it from others.
 Example: "Test Plan for Web Application v1.0."

2. Introduction/Overview

 Purpose: The introduction provides an overall summary of the testing project, including
the scope and objectives of the test plan.
 Content:
o A brief overview of the software system being tested.
o The testing goals and the intended outcome of the testing process.
o An explanation of the importance of the testing efforts for the project's success.

3. Test Objectives

 Purpose: This section defines the specific goals and targets of testing, outlining what the
test plan aims to achieve.
 Content:
o Examples of objectives: verifying functionality, ensuring performance under load,
checking security features, or validating usability.

4. Test Scope

 Purpose: Specifies the areas of the software that will be tested and the areas that will not
be tested (out-of-scope).
 Content:
o In-Scope: The functionalities, modules, and components to be tested.
o Out-of-Scope: Features or functionalities that are excluded from testing, such as
third-party integrations or minor enhancements.
5. Test Approach

 Purpose: Describes the overall strategy for testing the application, including the testing
methods, techniques, and types of tests to be performed.
 Content:
o Test Levels: Unit testing, integration testing, system testing, acceptance testing,
etc.
o Test Types: Functional testing, non-functional testing, regression testing, security
testing, etc.
o Test Techniques: Black-box testing, white-box testing, boundary value analysis,
equivalence partitioning, exploratory testing, etc.

6. Test Environment

 Purpose: This section outlines the hardware, software, network configurations, and any
specific tools required for testing.
 Content:
o Hardware Requirements: Servers, devices, or infrastructure needed for testing.
o Software Requirements: Operating systems, browsers, databases, and other
software dependencies.
o Test Data: Data sets needed for running the tests (realistic, anonymized, or
simulated data).

7. Test Deliverables

 Purpose: Specifies the artifacts and documents that will be produced during the testing
process.
 Content:
o Test cases and test scripts.
o Test execution results and defect logs.
o Test summary reports, test metrics, and final test results.
o Any documentation or additional reports such as defect reports, logs, and status
updates.

8. Test Schedule

 Purpose: Defines the timeline for the testing activities, including start and end dates for
each phase of testing.
 Content:
 o Key milestones such as test case preparation, test execution, defect resolution, and
test reporting.
o Estimated time frames for test execution (unit testing, integration testing, etc.).
o Resource allocation, including the number of testers and their availability.

9. Resource and Roles

 Purpose: This section defines the human resources required for testing and assigns roles
and responsibilities within the testing team.
 Content:
o Test Manager: Oversees the test process and ensures the test plan is followed.
o Test Analysts/Engineers: Responsible for test design, execution, and reporting.
o Automation Engineers: In charge of developing and maintaining automated test
scripts.
o Developers: Involved in fixing defects found during testing.
o Business Analysts: Provide functional knowledge and clarifications during
testing.

10. Risk Identification and Mitigation

 Purpose: Identifies potential risks that could affect the testing process and outlines
strategies for mitigating these risks.
 Content:
o Potential Risks: Lack of test data, environment issues, tight project deadlines,
resource constraints, unclear requirements, etc.
o Mitigation Strategies: Prioritize testing efforts, automate repetitive tasks, and
allocate additional resources as needed.

11. Test Case Design

 Purpose: Describes how test cases will be designed and specifies the test case structure.
 Content:
o How the test cases will be derived from requirements or user stories.
o The format for documenting test cases, including fields like test case ID,
description, preconditions, test steps, expected results, and pass/fail criteria.
12. Test Execution and Reporting

 Purpose: Describes the procedures for executing tests, tracking progress, and reporting
results.
 Content:
o Test Execution Process: Who will execute the tests, how they will execute them,
and how the results will be logged and tracked.
o Test Reporting: How defects will be reported and tracked, and how test progress
will be communicated (e.g., daily status reports, defect severity).

13. Entry and Exit Criteria

 Purpose: Defines the conditions that must be met before testing begins (entry criteria)
and the conditions that signify the testing phase is complete (exit criteria).
 Content:
o Entry Criteria: For example, completed requirements, stable test environment,
and prepared test cases.
o Exit Criteria: Examples include all tests executed, all defects resolved or
deferred, and agreed-upon test coverage.

14. Test Suspension and Resumption Criteria

 Purpose: Defines the conditions under which testing will be suspended and the process
to resume it.
 Content:
o Suspension Criteria: Issues like critical defects that prevent further testing,
system crashes, or unstable environments.
o Resumption Criteria: Once the issues are resolved, testing will resume based on
the original test plan.

15. Change Management

 Purpose: Describes the process for handling changes to the test plan during the testing
process.
 Content:
o Process for handling scope changes, such as additional features or defects that
may need new test cases.
o How changes in requirements, environment, or resources will be communicated
and handled.
16. Communication Plan

 Purpose: Describes how information will be communicated within the testing team and
with other project stakeholders.
 Content:
o Test meetings, progress reporting, status updates.
o Who needs to be informed about test results, issues, and defects, and how often
communication will take place.

26.Explain test design. Describe main categories of Test Design.

ANS:

Test Design

Test Design is the process of creating detailed test cases, test scripts, and test scenarios based on
the test requirements and objectives defined in the Test Plan. It involves planning, organizing,
and developing tests that ensure the software functions as intended and meets all the specified
requirements.

Test design ensures that the testing process is structured, repeatable, and thorough, helping to
identify defects and ensure high-quality deliverables. The goal is to test all possible behaviors of
the system under different conditions.

Key Components of Test Design:

 Test Case Development: Designing specific conditions, inputs, and expected results to
validate that the software performs correctly.
 Test Scenario Identification: Identifying key scenarios that represent typical use cases,
edge cases, and error conditions.
 Test Data Creation: Preparing data sets to validate inputs and outputs during test
execution.

Main Categories of Test Design

There are several approaches to test design, each suited to different testing needs and objectives.
Here are the main categories of Test Design:
1. Black Box Test Design

Black Box Testing focuses on testing the software without knowledge of its internal structure or
code. Testers only consider the software’s behavior based on the inputs and expected outputs.

Key Concepts:

 Objective: Verify that the software works as intended, based on functional

specifications.
 Types of Black Box Test Design:
o Equivalence Partitioning: Divides input data into equivalent partitions to
minimize the number of test cases while ensuring coverage. For example, if a
field accepts values from 1 to 100, the test cases can be designed for values below
1, between 1 and 100, and above 100.
o Boundary Value Analysis: Focuses on testing the boundaries of input values to
identify off-by-one errors. For example, testing values like 0, 1, 99, 100, and 101
for a range of 1-100.
o Decision Table Testing: Used to test combinations of inputs and conditions. A
decision table provides a structured way of writing out possible conditions and
actions for a set of inputs.
o State Transition Testing: Used when the system’s behavior depends on the state
of the application. It ensures that the system behaves correctly for each state
transition.
o Use Case Testing: Verifies that the software performs correctly in scenarios
based on how users are expected to interact with the system.

Advantages of Black Box Test Design:

 Focuses on user-facing functionality.

 Can be done without knowing the system’s internal workings.
 Identifies defects related to user experience, functional behavior, and external interfaces.

2. White Box Test Design

White Box Testing (also known as Structural Testing) involves testing the internal workings
of an application. Testers have knowledge of the code, logic, and architecture of the software,
allowing them to design tests based on how the system operates internally.

Key Concepts:

 Objective: Ensure that the internal code structure, logic, and implementation are correct.
 Types of White Box Test Design:
o Statement Coverage: Ensures that every statement in the code is executed at
least once during testing.
 o Branch Coverage: Focuses on testing all possible branches in decision points
(e.g., if-else conditions).
o Path Coverage: Verifies that all possible paths through the code are exercised,
ensuring comprehensive testing of the program flow.
o Condition Coverage: Tests the boolean expressions to ensure both true and false
outcomes are tested for each condition.

Advantages of White Box Test Design:

 Provides thorough testing by checking the internal logic.

 Helps in finding hidden defects like untested paths, dead code, or incorrect algorithms.
 Helps ensure code quality and maintainability.

3. Gray Box Test Design

Gray Box Testing is a hybrid approach that combines elements of both Black Box and White
Box Testing. Testers have limited knowledge of the internal workings of the system but use this
knowledge to design more focused tests while still considering the system's behavior from the
user perspective.

Key Concepts:

 Objective: Combine external testing with internal knowledge to improve coverage and
efficiency.
 Approach: Testers understand the architecture and basic flow of the application, which
allows them to identify potential weak points in the system.

Advantages of Gray Box Test Design:

 Efficient testing with a balance between the internal structure and user-facing behavior.
 Helps identify integration issues and defects in the interaction between modules.
 Provides a more focused approach to functional testing compared to Black Box testing.

4. Experience-Based Test Design

In Experience-Based Test Design, testers rely on their experience, intuition, and knowledge of
similar systems to create test cases. This approach is especially useful when there is limited
documentation or when exploring new features.

Key Concepts:

 Objective: Leverage tester expertise and experience to design tests that are more likely to
uncover defects.
  Types of Experience-Based Test Design:
o Error Guessing: Based on the tester’s intuition, experience, and knowledge of
past defects, certain inputs or conditions are tested that are likely to cause defects.
o Exploratory Testing: Testers explore the application dynamically to uncover
unexpected issues, using their knowledge of the software's purpose, typical user
behaviors, and potential weak spots.

Advantages of Experience-Based Test Design:

 Helps find defects that may not be identified through structured test design methods.
 Allows flexibility and creativity, especially in testing complex or new features.
 Useful in situations with limited requirements or unclear specifications.

5. Ad-hoc Test Design

Ad-hoc Testing is a form of testing where the tester conducts informal testing without structured
plans or documented test cases. The tester uses their knowledge of the application and its
functionality to conduct spontaneous tests.

Key Concepts:

 Objective: Identify defects in an unscripted, exploratory manner.

 Approach: Testers are free to test any area of the application without predefined test
cases, often based on their intuition and experience.

Advantages of Ad-hoc Test Design:

 Useful for finding defects that structured testing might miss.

 Provides flexibility and spontaneity.
 Can be performed quickly and with minimal documentation.

6. Risk-Based Test Design

Risk-Based Testing involves designing test cases based on the likelihood of risks and their
potential impact. The focus is on testing areas that are high-risk, either due to complexity, new
features, or previous defect history.

Key Concepts:

 Objective: Focus testing efforts on areas that carry the highest risk to the system.
 Approach: Prioritize testing based on the severity of defects that might occur and the
likelihood of their occurrence.
27.Discuss test automation in brief.

ANS:

Test Automation: A Brief Overview

Test Automation refers to the use of software tools and scripts to automatically execute test
cases, compare actual outcomes with expected results, and report discrepancies. Automation is
used to increase the efficiency, effectiveness, and coverage of the testing process, especially for
repetitive or complex tasks that would be time-consuming and error-prone if done manually.

Importance of Test Automation

 Speed: Automated tests can run faster than manual tests, allowing more tests to be
executed in less time.
 Repeatability: Tests can be repeated as often as needed, ensuring consistent and reliable
results.
 Cost-Effective in the Long Run: Although automation has an initial setup cost, it can
save time and resources in the long run, especially in large projects with frequent
changes.
 Better Coverage: Automation allows for more extensive test coverage, enabling tests to
be executed across different environments, browsers, and devices.
 Reduced Human Error: Automation reduces the possibility of human error during test
execution and increases the accuracy of test results.

Key Elements of Test Automation

1. Automation Tools:
o There are a variety of test automation tools available, ranging from general-
purpose frameworks to specialized tools for specific types of testing. Common
examples include:
 Selenium (for web application testing)
 JUnit / TestNG (for unit testing in Java)
 Appium (for mobile application testing)
 JMeter (for performance testing)
 Cucumber (for Behavior Driven Development testing)
2. Test Scripts:
o Test scripts are written in programming languages or using specialized scripting
languages. These scripts are designed to perform automated actions, input data,
and verify the output against expected results.
o Example languages include Python, Java, Ruby, and JavaScript.
3. Test Frameworks:
o A test framework is a set of guidelines, rules, and tools that help structure and
manage the test scripts and test execution. Frameworks promote reusability,
maintainability, and scalability of automated tests.
 o Common types of frameworks include:
 Linear Scripting Framework
 Data-Driven Framework
 Keyword-Driven Framework
 Hybrid Framework
4. Test Execution:
o Test execution in automation involves running the test scripts against the
application to simulate user interactions and validate functionality.
o Tests can be executed in different environments and conditions to ensure
consistency and reliability.
5. Test Reporting:
o Automated tests generate reports that provide insights into the status of tests
(pass/fail), defects identified, execution logs, and other metrics.
o These reports are essential for understanding test coverage, tracking defects, and
making data-driven decisions about the quality of the software.

Benefits of Test Automation

 Faster Feedback: Automated tests can be run as frequently as needed (even as part of a
Continuous Integration/Continuous Delivery pipeline), providing quick feedback on code
changes.
 Efficient Regression Testing: Every time the code changes, automated regression tests
can be rerun, ensuring that no old functionality is broken.
 Scalability: As the application grows, automated testing can easily scale to accommodate
the increased complexity and functionality.
 Parallel Execution: Automated tests can be run across different browsers, platforms, and
environments simultaneously, increasing test coverage.
 Consistency and Reliability: Since the test execution is automated, the same tests are
executed in the same way every time, ensuring consistent results.

Challenges of Test Automation

 Initial Setup Cost: Writing and maintaining automated test scripts require a higher initial
investment in terms of time and resources.
 Tool and Framework Selection: Choosing the right automation tool or framework can
be challenging, especially when dealing with complex systems or applications.
 Maintenance: As the application evolves, automated test scripts need to be updated to
accommodate changes in functionality, user interfaces, or business logic.
 Not Suitable for All Tests: Automation is best suited for repetitive, stable, or high-
volume tasks. Tests that require human intuition, exploratory testing, or complex user
interactions are better suited to manual testing.

When to Use Test Automation

Test automation is most beneficial in the following scenarios:

  Regression Testing: When you need to repeatedly test the same functionality after each
code change.
 Performance Testing: To simulate thousands of users or large-scale load conditions.
 Continuous Integration/Continuous Delivery (CI/CD): Automated tests can be
integrated into CI/CD pipelines to ensure that code is always tested before being
deployed.
 Repeated Testing: For tasks or tests that need to be executed frequently (e.g., after every
change or in multiple environments).
 Large Projects: Automation helps in managing complex projects with multiple
functionalities, ensuring that tests are executed efficiently across multiple iterations.

28.What are Advantages of Automation Tools?

ANS:

Advantages of Automation Tools

Automation tools offer numerous benefits in the software testing process. These tools help
streamline testing, improve efficiency, and reduce errors associated with manual testing. Below
are the key advantages of using automation tools:

1. Faster Test Execution

 Speed: Automated tests can be executed much faster than manual tests, especially when
dealing with large test suites or repetitive tests. This allows for more tests to be run in less
time, speeding up the testing process.
 Continuous Testing: Automation tools enable tests to be executed continuously as part
of the Continuous Integration (CI) or Continuous Delivery (CD) pipelines, ensuring
immediate feedback for developers after each code change.

2. Increased Test Coverage

 Broad Testing Scope: Automation allows testing across multiple platforms, browsers,
devices, and operating systems simultaneously, which would be difficult and time-
consuming with manual testing.
 High Volume Testing: Automation tools can execute large numbers of test cases and
complex scenarios that would be impractical for human testers to manage manually.
3. Reusability of Test Scripts

 Reusable Test Cases: Automated test scripts can be reused across different releases of
the software, which is particularly beneficial in regression testing. Once the test scripts
are created, they can be executed multiple times without modification.
 Cost-Effective in the Long Run: Although automation requires an initial investment in
writing test scripts, the ability to reuse these scripts for future releases reduces the overall
cost of testing in the long term.

4. Consistency and Reliability

 Eliminating Human Error: Automated tests execute in exactly the same manner each
time, ensuring consistency in test execution. This removes the possibility of human errors
such as missed steps, incorrect input, or inconsistent reporting.
 Accurate Results: Automated tools ensure that test execution is accurate and not subject
to the fatigue or bias that can affect manual testers, resulting in more reliable test results.

5. Early Detection of Defects

 Immediate Feedback: Automated testing, especially when integrated into CI/CD

pipelines, provides quick feedback to developers about the quality of the code. This helps
in detecting defects early in the development cycle, allowing for quicker remediation.
 Regression Testing: Automated tests can be re-executed after each code change, which
helps in identifying bugs introduced by new code that might have affected existing
functionality.

6. Improved Efficiency in Regression Testing

 Efficient Regression Testing: Regression testing can be time-consuming if done

manually. Automation tools speed up this process by allowing the same tests to be run
repeatedly without manual intervention.
 Faster Validation: Automated regression tests can be run on every release, ensuring that
previously verified functionality is not impacted by new changes.

7. Cost-Effectiveness in the Long Term

 Reduced Labor Costs: Although initial setup and scripting require investment,
automation reduces the amount of manual testing needed. This ultimately reduces labor
costs, especially for large and repetitive tests.
  Scalability: As the project grows, automation can scale to handle larger volumes of
testing without requiring proportional increases in staffing or resources.

8. Parallel Execution

 Multiple Environment Testing: Automation tools can run tests across multiple
environments (e.g., different operating systems, browsers, devices) simultaneously. This
parallel execution significantly reduces the time needed for cross-browser or cross-
platform testing.
 Faster Time to Market: Parallel execution can speed up the overall testing process,
contributing to faster delivery of software updates and releases.

9. Better Reporting and Documentation

 Detailed Logs and Reports: Automation tools generate detailed logs and reports after
test execution. These reports provide a clear view of what tests passed, what failed, and
the reasons for failure, making it easier for testers and developers to analyze and address
issues.
 Test History and Metrics: Automation tools often provide a history of test executions,
helping teams track progress and identify patterns in defects over time.

10. Continuous Integration and Continuous Testing

 Seamless CI/CD Integration: Automation tools can be integrated into CI/CD pipelines,
ensuring that tests are automatically run after every code commit. This helps in
continuous validation of the application’s functionality and performance.
 Faster Software Delivery: With continuous testing and immediate feedback, teams can
identify and fix issues quickly, improving the speed of the overall software delivery
process.

11. Increased Tester Productivity

 Focus on Complex Testing: Automated tests handle repetitive and mundane tasks,
allowing manual testers to focus on more complex and exploratory testing, such as
usability, user experience, and edge case testing.
 Time-Saving: With automation taking care of routine tests, testers can focus on more
critical areas of testing, thereby increasing overall productivity.
12. Supporting Complex Test Scenarios

 Handling Complex Test Cases: Some test scenarios, such as testing large datasets,
performing load and stress testing, or simulating complex user interactions, can be
difficult to perform manually. Automation tools can handle these scenarios more
effectively and accurately.

13. Easier Regression for Frequent Releases

 Frequent Releases: In Agile or DevOps environments, where releases happen

frequently, automated testing ensures that each release is tested quickly and efficiently,
even if the software changes often.
 Speeding Up the Development Cycle: Automated testing integrates into the agile
methodology by accelerating the testing phase and allowing rapid validation of changes
with minimal manual effort.

Unit-5

29.Explain defect management process in software testing.

ANS:

Defect Management Process in Software Testing

Defect management is a critical aspect of software testing, focusing on identifying,

documenting, tracking, and resolving defects (also called bugs) throughout the software
development life cycle (SDLC). It ensures that all defects are efficiently handled and that the
final product meets the required quality standards.

The defect management process is essential for maintaining software quality, improving the
development process, and ensuring that defects do not slip through to the production
environment.

Here’s an overview of the defect management process:

1. Defect Identification

The defect identification phase involves discovering and documenting defects during the testing
phase. This is done through various testing techniques such as functional, regression, integration,
and performance testing.
  Testers or automated scripts detect defects by executing test cases and verifying results
against expected outputs.
 Tools like JIRA, Bugzilla, or Quality Center can help testers report defects.

Steps in Defect Identification:

 Execute the test cases.

 Identify any deviations from the expected results.
 Capture detailed information about the defect (steps to reproduce, severity, priority,
screenshots, logs, etc.).

2. Defect Reporting

Once a defect is identified, it must be reported for further analysis and resolution. The defect
report contains all the necessary details to allow developers and other stakeholders to understand,
reproduce, and fix the issue.

Key Elements of a Defect Report:

 Defect ID: A unique identifier for the defect.

 Summary: A brief description of the defect.
 Description: A detailed description of the issue, including the steps to reproduce it.
 Severity: The impact of the defect (e.g., critical, major, minor, trivial).
 Priority: The urgency of fixing the defect (e.g., high, medium, low).
 Test Environment: Information about the software, hardware, and configurations used
during testing.
 Assigned To: The developer or team responsible for resolving the defect.
 Status: The current state of the defect (e.g., Open, In Progress, Fixed, Closed).

3. Defect Review

The defect review phase involves stakeholders, including testers, developers, and project
managers, analyzing the defect to decide on its validity, priority, and resolution.

 Is the defect valid? Sometimes, what appears to be a defect may be due to incorrect test
data or environment issues.
 Determine severity and priority: The team decides on the appropriate severity (how
critical the defect is to the functionality) and priority (how urgent it is to fix the defect).

Steps in Defect Review:

 Analyze the defect report for completeness and accuracy.

 Verify if the defect is reproducible.
  Classify the defect based on severity and priority.
 Discuss and prioritize defects based on business and technical factors.

4. Defect Assignment

After the defect has been reviewed, it is assigned to the appropriate developer or development
team for resolution. The assigned team member will investigate and work on fixing the defect.

Steps in Defect Assignment:

 Assign the defect to the relevant developer or team.

 Notify the developer about the defect and provide them with the necessary details to
reproduce and resolve it.
 Ensure that the defect is addressed according to its priority and severity.

5. Defect Resolution

The developer works on fixing the defect based on the assigned severity and priority. They
modify the code, configurations, or related components to resolve the issue.

Defect Resolution Activities:

 Code fixes or configuration changes to resolve the defect.

 Re-test the changes in a development or staging environment.
 Ensure that the fix does not introduce new defects (this is often done through regression
testing).

6. Defect Retesting

Once the defect is fixed, the tester re-executes the test cases to ensure that the defect has been
successfully resolved. Retesting verifies that the defect is no longer present and that the software
behaves as expected.

 If the defect is resolved, it is marked as “Fixed.”

 If the defect persists or is not fixed correctly, it is sent back for further investigation by
the developer.
7. Defect Closure

Once the defect has been successfully resolved and retested, it is closed. The defect is marked as
“Closed” in the defect tracking system.

Conditions for Defect Closure:

 The defect has been fixed and tested.

 The fix has been verified in the appropriate environments (e.g., development, testing,
staging).
 No further actions are needed, and the defect will not recur.

8. Defect Tracking and Reporting

Throughout the defect management process, defects need to be tracked to provide insights into
the quality of the software. Tracking involves maintaining a record of defect statistics, trends,
and metrics to evaluate the effectiveness of the defect management process.

Defect Metrics:

 Defect density: Number of defects per unit of software (e.g., per lines of code).
 Defect severity distribution: Distribution of defects based on their severity (e.g.,
critical, major, minor).
 Defect resolution time: Average time taken to fix a defect.
 Defect leakage: Defects found by users after the software has been released.
 Defect re-open rate: Percentage of defects that are reopened after being closed.

9. Root Cause Analysis (Optional but Recommended)

Root Cause Analysis (RCA) helps determine the underlying causes of defects. This analysis is
performed after a defect is closed, particularly for critical defects. By identifying the root cause,
teams can prevent similar defects from occurring in the future.

RCA Activities:

 Analyze the defect to determine its origin.

 Identify any gaps in the development or testing processes.
 Implement corrective actions, such as code reviews, improved testing techniques, or
enhanced development practices.
10. Continuous Improvement

The defect management process is not just about fixing defects but also about improving the
overall quality of the software and the development process. Lessons learned from defect
management should be used to refine development practices and improve the efficiency of
testing and development in future projects.

Key Areas for Continuous Improvement:

 Improving Test Coverage: Ensuring that all critical scenarios are tested and that the
likelihood of defects is minimized.
 Enhancing Development Practices: Refining coding standards and adopting practices
like pair programming or code reviews to reduce defects.
 Refining Testing Techniques: Adopting new testing tools and techniques, such as
automated testing, to catch defects early in the SDLC.

30.Explain defect Bug Life Cycle in Software Testing

ANS:

Defect (Bug) Life Cycle in Software Testing

The Defect Life Cycle, also known as the Bug Life Cycle, is a journey a defect goes through
during its lifetime, from its identification to its resolution and closure. This cycle is crucial in
software testing as it helps in tracking and managing defects efficiently, ensuring that all issues
are addressed properly before the software is released.

The Defect Life Cycle typically consists of various stages, which can vary slightly depending on
the organization's processes or defect tracking tools (e.g., JIRA, Bugzilla). Here is a detailed
explanation of the common stages in the defect life cycle:

1. New (Defect Identified)

 Description: The defect is discovered during the testing phase. It is reported by a tester
who identifies a discrepancy between the expected and actual behavior of the system.
 Action: The tester documents the defect in the defect tracking system with details like
defect summary, steps to reproduce, environment details, severity, and priority.
 Status: The defect is assigned the "New" status.
2. Assigned (Defect Assigned for Investigation)

 Description: Once the defect is logged, it is assigned to the developer or team

responsible for fixing it. The developer investigates the defect to verify its existence and
identify the root cause.
 Action: The assigned developer reproduces the defect, analyzes the code, and identifies
the cause of the problem.
 Status: The defect status is updated to "Assigned."

3. Open (Defect Under Investigation)

 Description: After confirming the defect's validity, the developer begins to work on
fixing the issue. This phase involves actual code changes or configuration fixes.
 Action: Developers make the necessary changes or updates to resolve the defect. They
may also collaborate with other team members for complex issues.
 Status: The defect status becomes "Open," indicating that work is in progress.

4. Fixed (Defect Fixed)

 Description: The developer implements a solution and resolves the defect. Once the fix
is made, it is tested in the development environment.
 Action: The developer marks the defect as "Fixed" once the code or system has been
modified to address the problem.
 Status: The defect is marked "Fixed" in the defect tracking system.

5. Retesting (Verification of Fix)

 Description: After the defect is fixed, the testing team retests the application to verify
that the issue has been successfully resolved and that the fix does not introduce any new
defects.
 Action: Testers execute the same test case (or similar ones) to ensure the defect is
resolved. If the defect no longer occurs, it is marked as "Closed" or moved to the next
stage.
 Status: The defect is moved to "Retesting" to verify the fix.

6. Verified (Defect Verified)

 Description: If the retesting passes and the defect is resolved, the tester verifies the fix
and confirms that the defect no longer exists.
  Action: The tester marks the defect as "Verified" in the defect tracking system if the
resolution is successful.
 Status: The defect is updated to "Verified" if the fix is confirmed by the testing team.

7. Closed (Defect Closed)

 Description: Once the defect is verified, tested, and confirmed to be resolved, it is

closed. This indicates that the defect has been fully addressed and no further action is
required.
 Action: The defect is closed in the defect tracking system, and the team considers it
resolved.
 Status: The defect is marked "Closed," meaning no further action is required.

8. Reopened (Defect Reappears)

 Description: In some cases, after closing a defect, the issue may resurface due to
incomplete fixes, improper solutions, or newly introduced changes. When the defect
reappears, it is reopened.
 Action: The defect is reopened by the tester or project manager to reinitiate the
investigation and provide a fix.
 Status: The defect is marked "Reopened" and returned to the earlier stages of
investigation or fixing.

9. Deferred (Defect Postponed)

 Description: Sometimes, a defect may be deferred to a future release due to its low
priority, lack of resources to fix it, or because it does not have a significant impact on the
system at present.
 Action: The defect is documented, but its resolution is postponed to a later phase or
version.
 Status: The defect is marked "Deferred" in the defect tracking system, indicating it will
be addressed in a future release.

10. Not a Defect

 Description: In some cases, after investigating a defect, it may be determined that the
issue reported is not actually a defect. The reported issue may be due to a
misunderstanding, incorrect usage, or intended behavior.
  Action: The defect is rejected, and the tester is notified. A detailed explanation is
provided as to why the issue is not a defect.
 Status: The defect is marked as "Not a Defect" and is closed without any further action.

Defect Life Cycle Summary Table

Stage Description

New Defect identified during testing and reported.

Assigned Defect assigned to the developer for investigation.

Open Developer begins working on fixing the defect.

Fixed Developer implements a fix, and the defect is resolved.

Retesting Testers verify that the defect is fixed and retest the application.

Verified Testers confirm that the fix is successful and defect is resolved.

Closed Defect is closed after being verified as fixed.

Reopened Defect reappears, and the issue is reopened for further resolution.

Deferred Defect resolution postponed to a later release.

Not a Defect The issue reported is determined not to be a defect.

31.What are Advantages of Good Defect Report?

ANS:

Advantages of a Good Defect Report

A good defect report is essential for efficient defect management and resolution. It provides
clear, accurate, and detailed information about the issue, making it easier for developers to
understand, reproduce, and fix the problem. Below are the key advantages of a well-written
defect report:
1. Clear Understanding of the Defect

 Quick Identification of Issues: A good defect report provides a clear and concise
description of the defect, including the steps to reproduce it. This helps developers and
testers quickly understand the issue without ambiguity.
 Easy Reproducibility: Detailed instructions on how to reproduce the defect (along with
screenshots, logs, or videos) ensure that the issue can be consistently recreated, which is
crucial for debugging.

2. Efficient Defect Resolution

 Accurate Root Cause Analysis: A well-documented defect report helps developers

identify the root cause of the problem more efficiently. By including relevant information
like the environment, configuration, and expected behavior, developers can narrow down
the cause of the defect quickly.
 Faster Fixes: The more specific the defect report, the faster developers can resolve the
issue, as they don’t need to spend time gathering information or clarifying details.

3. Saves Time and Effort

 Reduction in Back-and-Forth Communication: Clear defect reports reduce the need

for testers and developers to exchange multiple emails or messages to clarify details. This
leads to faster communication and fewer misunderstandings.
 Minimized Testing Delays: When defects are well-reported, testers can quickly verify
the fixes, reducing the time spent in re-testing and validating the software.

4. Helps in Prioritization

 Clear Severity and Priority Levels: A good defect report clearly defines the severity
and priority of the defect, helping the team prioritize it appropriately. Critical defects can
be addressed immediately, while less severe ones can be handled later.
 Informed Decision-Making: By providing accurate information on the defect's impact,
stakeholders (e.g., project managers, product owners) can make better decisions on how
to allocate resources and schedule fixes.
5. Improved Collaboration

 Facilitates Team Collaboration: A good defect report is a common reference point for
the entire team (testers, developers, and managers). It fosters better collaboration by
ensuring that all team members have access to the same information about the defect.
 Ensures Accountability: The defect report assigns responsibility to specific developers
or teams for fixing the defect. It also documents progress through statuses like
"Assigned," "Fixed," and "Closed," ensuring that the issue is tracked to completion.

6. Traceability

 Tracking Defect Resolution: A detailed defect report provides traceability, allowing

teams to track the progress of the defect from identification to closure. This helps in
keeping a history of defects, which is valuable for retrospectives and quality analysis.
 Root Cause and Recurrence Prevention: By maintaining detailed defect reports, teams
can identify recurring issues and perform root cause analysis to prevent similar defects in
future releases.

7. Documentation and Quality Metrics

 Defect Documentation: Good defect reports serve as documentation for the project,
capturing details of each defect and its resolution. This documentation can be useful for
audits, regulatory compliance, or future reference.
 Defect Metrics: Clear and consistent defect reports help generate accurate metrics, such
as defect density, defect discovery rate, and defect resolution time. These metrics are
useful for assessing the software’s quality and performance.

8. Enhanced Communication with Stakeholders

 Transparency with Stakeholders: A well-documented defect report helps provide

transparency to all stakeholders (e.g., project managers, product owners, clients). It
communicates the status and impact of defects, which is crucial for managing
expectations and making informed decisions.
 Progress Monitoring: Stakeholders can easily monitor defect resolution progress by
reviewing the defect report and status updates. This enhances trust and confidence in the
testing and development process.
9. Supports Regression Testing

 Easier Regression Testing: When a defect is reported and fixed, testers need to verify
that the fix works and that no new issues are introduced. A good defect report clearly
defines the test cases and steps to verify the fix, making regression testing more efficient.
 Clear Test Coverage: Well-defined defects provide a clear baseline for test coverage,
ensuring that the same tests are run to confirm that the issue has been addressed without
introducing new problems.

10. Historical Reference

 Lessons Learned: By documenting detailed information about defects, teams can refer to
past defect reports to learn from previous mistakes. This helps improve future testing
efforts, development practices, and quality assurance strategies.
 Continuous Improvement: Analyzing historical defect reports can reveal trends,
recurring issues, and potential weaknesses in the development or testing process, helping
teams continuously improve their practices.

32.Explain Defect Report Template.

ANS:

Defect Report Template

A Defect Report (or Bug Report) is a detailed document used to track and manage defects
discovered during the software testing process. It provides all the necessary information for
developers and other stakeholders to understand, reproduce, and resolve the issue. A well-
structured defect report ensures that defects are efficiently addressed and that the software meets
quality standards.

Here’s a common Defect Report Template with the typical fields and descriptions:

Defect Report Template

Field Description

A unique identifier assigned to the defect. It helps track and refer to the defect
Defect ID
throughout its lifecycle. Example: DEF-001.

A brief summary of the defect. It should be clear and concise, providing a quick
Title
understanding of the issue.
 Field Description

A detailed explanation of the defect, including what was expected vs. what was
Description observed. It may include information such as the steps to reproduce, environment
details, and the actual outcome.

Steps to A clear set of instructions to recreate the defect. It should include every step needed,
Reproduce along with the data or actions that trigger the defect.

Expected The anticipated behavior of the system if there were no defects. This helps in
Result understanding the deviation from the expected functionality.

The actual behavior observed during testing. This is the discrepancy between the
Actual Result
expected and actual behavior of the system.

The impact of the defect on the software’s functionality. It helps prioritize defect
Severity
resolution. Common severity levels include:

 Critical: The defect prevents the system from functioning and requires an immediate fix.
 Major: The defect has a significant impact but does not completely block system usage.
 Minor: The defect has a small impact and does not affect overall system performance.
 Trivial: The defect is cosmetic and does not affect functionality. | | Priority | The urgency
of fixing the defect, indicating how soon it should be addressed. This is often based on
business impact and criticality. Common priority levels include:
 High: The defect must be fixed immediately.
 Medium: The defect should be fixed in the near term.
 Low: The defect can be fixed in a later release. | | Assigned To | The name of the
developer or team responsible for resolving the defect. | | Status | The current state of the
defect, indicating its progress in the defect management process. Common statuses
include:
 New: The defect has been logged and is awaiting review.
 Assigned: The defect has been assigned to a developer for investigation.
 In Progress: The developer is actively working on the defect.
 Fixed: The defect has been resolved and code changes have been implemented.
 Retesting: The defect fix is being verified by the testing team.
 Closed: The defect has been successfully resolved and verified.
 Reopened: The defect is reintroduced after being marked as fixed due to its recurrence. | |
Environment | The system configuration, platform, or setup in which the defect was
found. This could include:
 OS version (e.g., Windows 10, MacOS)
 Browser (e.g., Chrome 90, Firefox 80)
 Device (e.g., iPhone 12, Samsung Galaxy S21)
 Database version, etc. | | Test Data | Any specific test data or conditions required to
reproduce the defect. This may include user input, database state, or configurations. | |
Build Version | The version of the software build where the defect was found (e.g.,
v1.2.0, Build 125). This helps developers identify if the defect is specific to a particular
 release. | | Detected By | The name of the tester or QA engineer who discovered the
defect. This helps in tracking the source of defects. | | Date Reported | The date when the
defect was logged in the defect tracking system. | | Defect Category | The classification
of the defect, which may include:
 Functional: Issues related to incorrect functionality or missing features.
 Usability: Problems related to the user experience or interface design.
 Performance: Issues related to the system's performance, such as slow load times.
 Security: Issues related to system vulnerabilities.
 Compatibility: Problems with compatibility across browsers, devices, or OS.
 Localization: Issues with language or regional settings. | | Comments | Additional notes
or observations from the tester, developer, or project manager. This can include
suggestions, workarounds, or further details regarding the defect. | | Attachments |
Screenshots, logs, or videos that provide visual evidence of the defect or help in
reproducing it. |

Example of a Defect Report:

Field Details

Defect ID DEF-101

Title "Login button does not work on the login screen"

Description The login button is unresponsive when clicked, preventing the user from logging in.

Steps to 1. Open the application. 2. Navigate to the login screen. 3. Enter valid credentials. 4.
Reproduce Click the "Login" button.

Expected Result The user should be logged into the application and redirected to the home page.

Actual Result The "Login" button remains unresponsive, and the user is not logged in.

Severity Major

Priority High

Assigned To John Doe

Status Assigned

Environment Windows 10, Google Chrome v89.0

Test Data Username: testuser, Password: Test@123

Build Version v1.0.0

Detected By Jane Smith

 Field Details

Date Reported 2025-04-25

Defect Category Functional

Comments This issue seems to occur only on the login screen. Testing on mobile platforms next.

Attachments Screenshot of the login screen

33.Explain Defect Prevention in brief.

ANS:

Defect Prevention in Software Testing

Defect Prevention is a proactive approach in software development and testing aimed at

identifying and addressing potential defects before they occur. Instead of focusing solely on
detecting defects after they have been introduced, defect prevention seeks to improve the overall
process, practices, and systems in place to avoid defects in the first place. It involves various
strategies, methodologies, and practices designed to minimize the likelihood of defects in the
software product.

Key Principles of Defect Prevention:

1. Process Improvement:
o Analyzing and enhancing development and testing processes to identify areas
where defects are likely to be introduced and taking steps to improve those areas.
o Implementing best practices, such as coding standards, code reviews, and rigorous
testing protocols, to reduce the introduction of defects.
2. Root Cause Analysis:
o When defects do occur, conducting a root cause analysis to understand why the
defect was introduced and identifying the underlying issues in the development or
testing process.
o Addressing the root cause, rather than just fixing the defect, helps prevent similar
issues from occurring in future development cycles.
3. Knowledge Sharing:
o Encouraging open communication and knowledge sharing among team members.
Teams should share lessons learned, successful practices, and tools that can help
reduce defects.
o Providing training to developers, testers, and other stakeholders to make them
aware of common defects and ways to prevent them.
4. Early Involvement of Quality Assurance:
 oInvolving testers and quality assurance teams early in the development process,
even in the design phase, helps identify potential issues early on and ensures that
testing is aligned with the project requirements and objectives.
o This proactive engagement prevents defects from being introduced at later stages
of development.
5. Automation and Tools:
o Using automated testing tools, static analysis tools, and code review tools can
help detect issues early and ensure better adherence to coding standards and best
practices.
o Automated testing, for example, can continuously verify code quality and help
detect defects before the product is released.
6. Requirement Clarity:
o Ensuring that requirements are clearly defined, understood, and documented is
essential to defect prevention. Ambiguous, incomplete, or unclear requirements
are a common source of defects.
o Using techniques such as requirement reviews, prototypes, and user stories can
help clarify the requirements and ensure alignment with the stakeholder's
expectations.
7. Risk Management:
o Identifying and managing risks early in the project helps address potential issues
before they escalate. By focusing on high-risk areas, teams can allocate resources
and attention to areas that are more likely to introduce defects.

Benefits of Defect Prevention:

 Improved Product Quality: By addressing defects early in the development process,

defect prevention helps deliver a product that meets the quality standards with fewer
defects in the final product.
 Cost and Time Savings: Defect prevention is more cost-effective than defect detection
and fixing, especially when done early. It saves time spent on debugging, retesting, and
resolving defects post-development.
 Increased Efficiency: By improving the development and testing processes, teams can
work more efficiently, reducing rework and the need for last-minute fixes.
 Enhanced Customer Satisfaction: A defect-free or low-defect product leads to higher
customer satisfaction, as end-users experience fewer issues and interruptions.

34.Explain test matrix and measurements.

ANS:

Test Matrix and Measurements in Software Testing

In software testing, Test Matrix and Test Measurements are important tools used to manage,
evaluate, and track the progress of testing activities. They help in organizing testing efforts,
tracking coverage, and ensuring that all test cases are executed effectively.
1. Test Matrix

A Test Matrix is a structured tool used to document and track the relationships between
different test conditions, test cases, and test requirements. It helps ensure that all aspects of the
system are tested and provides a clear overview of test coverage.

Components of Test Matrix:

 Test Scenarios/Requirements: These represent the features or aspects of the system that
need to be tested. Test scenarios are derived from the project requirements, user stories,
or functional specifications.
 Test Cases: A test case is a set of conditions under which a tester evaluates whether a
system or part of a system is working as expected. The test matrix lists the test cases
corresponding to each test scenario.
 Test Execution Status: The matrix tracks the execution status of each test case (e.g.,
Pass, Fail, Blocked, or Not Executed). This helps in monitoring the progress of testing.
 Priority/Severity: The matrix can include the priority or severity of each test case,
helping testers prioritize the testing efforts based on risk and importance.
 Test Type: The test matrix may categorize test cases by type (e.g., Functional Testing,
Regression Testing, Usability Testing, Performance Testing).

Example of a Test Matrix:

Test Test Case
Test Case Description Status Priority Severity Test Type
Scenario/Requirement ID

Verify user can log in with

User Login TC001 Passed High Critical Functional
valid credentials

Verify login fails with

User Login TC002 Failed High Major Functional
incorrect credentials

Verify user can register with

Registration Form TC003 Passed Medium Minor Functional
valid data

Verify password reset

Password Reset TC004 Blocked High Major Functional
functionality

Verify UI layout on mobile

UI Layout TC005 Passed Low Trivial Usability
devices

 Test Scenario/Requirement: The feature or functionality being tested.

 Test Case ID: Unique identifier for each test case.
 Test Case Description: A brief description of what is being tested.
 Status: Current test result (e.g., Passed, Failed, Blocked).
  Priority: Indicates the urgency of the test case (e.g., High, Medium, Low).
 Severity: Indicates the impact of a defect in the test case on the system (e.g., Critical,
Major, Minor).
 Test Type: The type of testing being performed (e.g., Functional, Performance).

2. Test Measurements

Test measurements are metrics that help assess the effectiveness, efficiency, and progress of the
testing process. They provide insight into the quality of the software being tested and guide
decisions about project status, resource allocation, and process improvements.

Key Test Measurements:

1. Test Coverage:
o Definition: The percentage of the software that is covered by the tests. This could
include:
 Code coverage (i.e., percentage of code exercised by the tests).
 Requirements coverage (i.e., percentage of requirements tested).
 Test case coverage (i.e., percentage of test cases executed).
o Importance: High test coverage ensures that the software is thoroughly tested
and reduces the risk of undetected defects.
2. Defect Density:
o Definition: The number of defects identified per unit of size or complexity of the
software (e.g., defects per 1,000 lines of code or defects per function point).
o Formula:
Defect Density=Total DefectsSize of the Software (e.g., Lines of Code)\text{Defe
ct Density} = \frac{\text{Total Defects}}{\text{Size of the Software (e.g., Lines
of Code)}}
o Importance: High defect density indicates that the software is more prone to
defects and needs more attention in terms of quality assurance.
3. Defect Discovery Rate:
o Definition: The rate at which defects are discovered during the testing phase. It
shows how quickly defects are being found and whether the testing process is
effective.
o Formula:
Defect Discovery Rate=Number of Defects FoundTime Taken for Testing\text{D
efect Discovery Rate} = \frac{\text{Number of Defects Found}}{\text{Time
Taken for Testing}}
o Importance: A high defect discovery rate in the early stages indicates effective
testing and allows issues to be addressed before release.
4. Defect Fix Rate:
o Definition: The rate at which defects are fixed and verified during testing. It
shows the efficiency of the development team in resolving defects.
o Formula:
Defect Fix Rate=Number of Defects FixedTotal Number of Defects\text{Defect
 Fix Rate} = \frac{\text{Number of Defects Fixed}}{\text{Total Number of
Defects}}
o Importance: A high defect fix rate indicates that the team is effectively resolving
issues and improving the software's quality.
5. Test Execution Progress:
o Definition: The percentage of test cases that have been executed compared to the
total number of test cases planned for the test cycle.
o Formula:
Test Execution Progress=Number of Test Cases ExecutedTotal Number of Test C
ases Planned×100\text{Test Execution Progress} = \frac{\text{Number of Test
Cases Executed}}{\text{Total Number of Test Cases Planned}} \times 100
o Importance: This metric helps track testing progress and ensures that all planned
tests are executed within the timeline.
6. Pass Rate and Fail Rate:
o Definition: The ratio of test cases that passed to the total number of executed test
cases. Similarly, the fail rate indicates the proportion of test cases that failed.
o Formula for Pass Rate:
Pass Rate=Number of Passed Test CasesTotal Test Cases Executed×100\text{Pas
s Rate} = \frac{\text{Number of Passed Test Cases}}{\text{Total Test Cases
Executed}} \times 100
o Formula for Fail Rate:
Fail Rate=Number of Failed Test CasesTotal Test Cases Executed×100\text{Fail
Rate} = \frac{\text{Number of Failed Test Cases}}{\text{Total Test Cases
Executed}} \times 100
o Importance: These rates help evaluate the quality of the software under test and
give insight into the overall stability of the product.
7. Test Cost:
o Definition: The total cost incurred during the testing process, including human
resources, tools, equipment, and time spent.
o Importance: Monitoring test costs helps ensure that testing efforts are cost-
effective and within the project's budget.
8. Escaped Defects:
o Definition: Defects that were not detected during testing but were found after the
software was released to the user or client.
o Importance: A high number of escaped defects indicates that the testing process
might be inadequate and requires improvement.