What is the difference between regression, sanity and smoke testing?

Smoke, sanity, and regression testing are all different types of software testing that help ensure that a software build is stable and works as intended: Smoke testing This test is performed early in the software development life cycle to verify the stability of a build's core functionalities. It's usually performed on critical functions like login forms, loading assets, and clicking buttons. Smoke testing is often performed by both developers and testers. Sanity testing This test is performed after smoke testing to ensure that code changes are working as intended and don't impact other functionalities. Sanity testing is usually performed by testers on more detailed functions of the app, such as recently implemented features or fixed bugs. Regression testing This test is performed after sanity testing to ensure that every aspect of a software build works as intended. Regression testing is usually performed by the QA team and checks every bit of functionality. All three types of testing are important to help ensure that development teams and QA teams don't waste time and resources on software builds with show-stopping bugs. read less

_Regression, Sanity, and Smoke Testing: Key Differences_

 

Regression, sanity, and smoke testing are three types of software testing techniques that serve distinct purposes. Here's a brief overview of each:

 

1. _Regression Testing_:

    - Purpose: Ensure that changes or fixes did not introduce new defects or affect existing functionality.

    - Scope: Test the entire application or system, focusing on areas affected by changes.

    - Depth: In-depth testing, covering various scenarios and user journeys.

    - Frequency: Performed after changes, fixes, or updates.

2. _Sanity Testing_:

    - Purpose: Verify that the application or system is working as expected, with a focus on overall functionality and user experience.

    - Scope: Test the entire application or system, covering critical functionalities.

    - Depth: High-level testing, focusing on user journeys and workflows.

    - Frequency: Performed after a build or deployment, or when time is limited.

3. _Smoke Testing_:

    - Purpose: Quickly verify that the application or system is stable and functional, focusing on critical functionalities.

    - Scope: Limited to critical functionalities and high-risk areas.

    - Depth: High-level testing, focusing on basic functionality.

    - Frequency: Performed immediately after a build or deployment, or as part of continuous integration.

 

_Key differences:_

 

1. *Purpose*: Regression testing ensures changes didn't introduce new defects, sanity testing verifies overall functionality, and smoke testing checks critical functionalities.

2. *Scope*: Regression testing covers the entire application, sanity testing focuses on critical functionalities, and smoke testing is limited to high-risk areas.

3. *Depth*: Regression testing is in-depth, sanity testing is high-level, and smoke testing is basic.

4. *Frequency*: Regression testing is performed after changes, sanity testing after a build or deployment, and smoke testing immediately after a build or deployment.

 

By understanding these differences, you can apply the right testing technique at the right time to ensure your software application or system meets the required quality standards.

 

Do you have any further questions about regression, sanity, and smoke testing?

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