Software Quality Assurance Practice Exam

Which testing type emphasizes verifying that new changes do not negatively affect existing functionality?

1. Regression testing

2. Exploratory testing

3. Smoke testing

4. Beta testing

The correct answer is: Regression testing

The testing type that focuses on verifying that new changes do not negatively impact existing functionality is regression testing. This approach is critical in the software development lifecycle, particularly when updates, enhancements, or bug fixes are introduced. The primary goal of regression testing is to ensure that these new developments maintain the overall integrity of the existing software features. Regression testing typically involves re-running previously completed tests to confirm that existing functionalities remain operational. It serves as a safeguard against unintentional consequences caused by new code, helping to identify any issues that may have emerged due to modifications in the software. By conducting regression tests, teams can verify that the software continues to perform as expected after changes rather than introducing new errors. In contrast, exploratory testing is more about simultaneous learning, test design, and execution without a formalized process or predefined test cases. Smoke testing is a preliminary test to check whether the basic functions of the application work, while beta testing involves releasing the software to a limited audience outside the development environment to gather feedback on its performance and features, rather than focusing specifically on existing functionalities. This highlights the unique role of regression testing in maintaining the reliability and stability of software after changes are made.