Gray box testing, also spelled grey box testing, is a common method in software testing. The purpose of gray box testing is to search for defects due to improper structure or improper usage of applications.
In this blog, LQA will give you a comprehensive guide to gray box testing and the differences between black box, gray box, and white box testing.
What is Gray Box Testing?
Gray box testing is a software testing method in which testers have partial knowledge of the internal workings of an application.
The major objective of gray box testing is to combine the advantages of black box testing and white box testing to test the productfrom a user perspective and improve overall user acceptance of the product.
When doing gray box testing, the testing process is guided by the specifications or requirements set for the software. Testers create test cases based on what the software is supposed to do, hence they are called requirement test cases.
Example of gray box testing: Consider testing a mobile banking app. As a gray box tester, you may have some knowledge about the backend server communication. You design test cases to simulate various network conditions, like low connectivity, to observe how the app handles these situations.
In black-box testing, testers have no idea about the system’s internal workings, while in white-box testing, testers have full knowledge of the application’s internal workings. Gray box testing is like a mix of black box and white box testing.
Let’s dive into a detailed comparison between black box, white box and gray box testing.
Black box testing
Gray box testing
White box testing
Minimal to no knowledge of internal details
Partial knowledge of internal details
Full knowledge of internal details
Low-level granularity
Medium-level granularity
High-level granularity
Evaluates a product from the user’s perspective
Considers both the user’s perspective and developer’s perspective
Evaluation happens from the developer’s perspective
Is often done by end-users, testers and also developers
Can be done by developers, testers, and end-users
Is generally done by developers and testers
Test cases are designed on the functional specifications
Test cases are created based on both functional specifications and some internal knowledge
Test cases are designed based on the internal code and structure
Tend to consume the least time among the 3 methods
So, what are the advantages and limitations of gray box testing?
Advantages of gray box testing
In short, gray box testing in software engineering combines the benefits of black box testing and white box testing.
Testing accounts for user perspective to improve overall user acceptance of the product.
Testers do not need to have programming expertise or extensive internal knowledge of the target system to start.
Less chance of introducing bias compared to white-box testing, as testers don’t know the internal details fully.
More comprehensive test scenario design than black-box testing thanks to partial knowledge of the internal mechanisms.
Is non-intrusive because it doesn’t require full access to the internal code.
Disadvantages of gray box testing
Due to its partial access to the internal code of the system, gray box testing imposes certain limitations.
Less test comprehensiveness compared to white-box testing. Due to limited access to complete code path coverage, testers might overlook critical vulnerabilities in the system.
Difficult to associate defects with root causes in distributed systems. Distributed systems involve various components and interactions, but testers don’t have full visibility into them.
Algorithm testing is impossible as the lack of access to the complete logic of the algorithms.
Gray Box Testing Techniques
When performing gray box testing, there are various techniques you can choose from.
Matrix testing
Matrix testing is a testing approach that examines all variables in an application, evaluating all business and technical risks associated with them and ensuring their correct and efficient utilization.
In matrix testing, test cases are systematically designed and executed based on a testing matrix structure. The matrix typically represents different combinations of inputs, conditions, or variables that need to be tested.
Orthogonal array testing (OAT)
Orthogonal array testing, or OAT, is basically a systematic and statistically-driven black-box testing technique. It systematically selects specific combinations of inputs to test the system instead of testing every possible combination of inputs.
Imagine you are dealing with a large number of inputs. Now, testing every possible combination of inputs would take a long time. So, you pick a subset of combinations to test from an orthogonal array, which is a structured grid ensuring coverage of various combinations of factor levels.
This method helps achieve a balance between thorough testing and minimizing the number of test cases required.
Pattern testing
Pattern testing in gray box testing involves analyzing historical defects to recognize recurring patterns associated with defects. Then, you can apply those insights to detect anomalies or deviations in coding practices that may lead to errors or vulnerabilities in apps with similar structures.
Example of pattern testing: Checking for consistent coding practices in naming conventions throughout the application.
Regression testing
Regression testing is a technique that verifies whether new changes affect the existing functioning of the system. Common regression test strategies are retest all, retest risky use cases, and regression test selection.
Regression testing is often done when there are modifications to a system, such as developing a new function or fixing a bug. In apps with frequent updates, regression testing is often automated for optimal efficiency.
The Gray Box Testing Process
A standard gray-box testing process comprises 10 steps as below:
#Step 1:Identify and select inputs
Choose inputs for testing from both white and black box testing methods, considering both external user interactions (black box) and partial knowledge of internal workings (white box).
#Step 2:Identify probable outputs
Determine expected outcomes corresponding to the selected inputs to establish criteria for successful testing.
#Step 3: Identify key paths for the testing phase
Recognize critical paths within the system that need to be tested to ensure comprehensive coverage.
#Step 4:Identify sub-functions
Break down the system into sub-functions for more focused and in-depth testing.
#Step 5:Identify inputs for subfunctions
Determine inputs specific to each sub-function, tailoring tests to assess individual components.
#Step 6:Identify probable outputs for subfunctions
Anticipate expected outputs corresponding to inputs for each identified sub-function.
#Step 7: Execute sub-function test cases
Perform tests on isolated sub-functions to observe how they respond to various inputs.
#Step 8:Assess and verify outcomes.
Evaluate test results to verify whether the system behaves as expected and meets specified criteria.
#Step 9: Repeat steps 4 & 8 for other subfunctions
#Step 10: Repeat steps 7 & 8 for other subfunctions
Frequently Asked Questions about Gray Box Testing
1. What is gray box penetration testing?
Gray box penetration testing is a cybersecurity assessment approach where the tester is provided with some information, such as system architecture or design details, to simulate the perspective of an attacker with limited insider knowledge.
2. What is the difference between gray-box and black-box testing?
The fundamental difference between gray box testing and black box testing is how much testers know about the internal workings of a system, which can be a web app, a mobile app, or a desktop app.
Gray box testers have partial knowledge of the internal details of the system, hence testing the system from both a user perspective and developer perspective.
Black box testers have no idea about the internal details of the system, hence testing the system from a user perspective completely.
3. What is gray box testing also known as?
According to the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), gray box testing is also known as focused testing.
Gray Box Testing by LQA
Gray-box testing is beneficial because it merges the benefits of black box testing and white box testing, combining the simplicity of the black-box approach with the code-specific approach of the white-box approach.
As the pioneering independent software testing company in Vietnam, LQA stands out as a prominent software quality assurance firm with a wide range of software testing services, covering gray box, white box, and black box testing.
Penetration testing, or pen testing, also called ‘ethical hacking’, in the world of software testing is a cybersecurity practice that involves simulating cyberattacks on computer systems, networks, or applications to identify and address security vulnerabilities.
Black box penetration testing, together with gray box penetration testing and white box penetration testing, makes up the three major methods in the field of penetration test.
In this article, LQA will give you a comprehensive guide to black box penetration testing and its difference from the other two.
What is black box penetration testing?
Black box penetration testing definition
Black box testing in penetration testing is a security assessment where testers, with no prior knowledge of the system, simulate real-world attacks to identify vulnerabilities from an external perspective.
The goal of black box penetration testing is to assess the system’s resilience to external threats and provide recommendations for improvement.
Key characteristics of black box testing
Limited knowledge: Testers have little to no knowledge of the internal workings, code, or architecture of the system being tested.
External perspective: Testing is conducted from an external viewpoint, simulating how an external attacker with no insider information would approach the system.
Objective evaluation: Testing is conducted from an external viewpoint, assessing an app’s resistance to external threats without bias from internal knowledge.
Real-world simulation: The goal is to simulate real-world attacks to identify vulnerabilities and weaknesses that could be exploited by external threats.
When your organization might need this type of pen test?
With the above characteristics of back box penetration testing, there are various scenarios when your organization might need this type of pen test. Common scenarios are:
Early vulnerability detection: Use this type of pen test when your business wants to unveil vulnerabilities at the initial stages of the software development life cycle (SDLC) and address issues before they escalate into significant security concerns.
Compliance & regulatory obligations: When industry regulations or compliance standards mandate regular security assessments, black box testing can help meet these requirements by providing an unbiased evaluation.
Real-world simulation: A black box approach helps assess your application, infrastructure, or network in a setting that closely mirrors a real-life attack scenario.
Third-party vendor assessment: Before onboarding a new third-party service or vendor, conducting black box testing helps ensure the security of their external-facing systems.
Black-box vs. Gray-box vs. White-box Penetration Testing
Third-party vendor assessment, balancing realism and efficiency
Efficiency
Quick start
May consume more time as detailed internal knowledge required
Balanced efficiency and realism
Advantages and disadvantages of black box penetration testing
Below are the most common advantages and disadvantages of black box pen test during a penetration testing engagement.
Advantages of black box penetration testing
Realistic testing: Assess your application, infrastructure, or network in a setting that closely mirrors a real-life attack scenario.
Unbiased evaluation: Testing is conducted from an external viewpoint, eliminating insider bias from internal knowledge.
Quick start: Back box testing doesn’t require testers to learn about the internal structure of software, hence allowing a quick start.
Cost saving: It may be cheaper to conduct a black box penetration test compared to other pen testing types, as it doesn’t require much time and resources needed for preparation.
Reduced chances of overlooking external vulnerabilities: As penetration testers don’t have prior access to the system blueprints and processes, the chances of testers focusing on a specific set of external vulnerabilities and missing out on others are often low.
Disadvantages of black box penetration testing
Limited understanding of internal controls: The testing team has restricted knowledge of the internal workings, potentially missing nuanced vulnerabilities that require internal context.
Overlooking internal vulnerabilities: The external focus may result in missing certain internal vulnerabilities that could be identified with more internal knowledge.
Lack of context: While efficient, the quick start may come at the cost of lacking context for a more nuanced evaluation of internal security measures.
Common Black-box Penetration Testing Techniques
Enumeration
Enumeration is about listing test targets for comprehensive testing.
Enumeration involves identifying and listing all possible test targets, such as IP addresses, services, and applications, to create a comprehensive inventory for testing.
It helps testers understand the scope of the system and potential points of entry.
Full port scanning
Full port scanning is crucial for mapping out the entire attack surfaceand discovering hidden services that might be overlooked with selective scanning.
Full port scanning is a specific scanning technique that involves checking all possible ports on a target system for open and closed statuses. This comprehensive approach helps identify services running on each port, providing insights into potential entry points for attackers.
Fuzzing
Fuzzing, or fuzz tests, is an automated testing technique that injects malformed or random inputs into an application that the application is not designed to handle.
The purpose of fuzz tests is to detect crashes, errors, memory leaks, and different behavior than expected.
Exploratory testing
Exploratory testing is when you perform tests with minimal predefined test plans and test cases and without an expectation or specific outcome.
Exploratory testing uses a dynamic and unscripted approach with the idea of letting the outcomes of one test guide the others.
This particularly works in black-box penetration testing, in which testers have no idea about the internal workings of the system.
Vulnerability scanning
Vulnerability scanning is an automated technique that systematically identifies and evaluates potential vulnerabilities within the target system, network, or application.
In vulnerability scanning, testers leverage automated tools to scan for common vulnerabilities in the target’s external-facing components.
This type of black-box pen test provides a quick and efficient way to identify potential security issues, such as outdated software, misconfigurations, or known vulnerabilities.
Exploitation
Exploitation involves attempting to exploit identified vulnerabilities to gain unauthorized access or compromise the target’s security.
During exploitation, testers simulate real-world attacks, crafting malicious requests to exploit weaknesses in the system’s defenses. This process demonstrates the potential impact of successful exploitation and assesses the overall security resilience of the target
Black Box Penetration Testing Steps
A black box pen test process often goes through 8 steps as below.
1. Scoping the test
In this stage of the penetration test, the team defines the scope of the test, outlining the specific systems, applications, or networks to assess.
They also establish rules of engagement, setting guidelines and limitations for the testing process.
2. Reconnaissance
Reconnaissance involves gathering information about the target system, typically publicly known information such as domain names, employee information, IP addresses, and network configurations.
The purpose of the reconnaissance step is to collect publicly known information about the target system to lay the foundation for subsequent testing phases.
3. Scanning & enumeration
Post reconnaissance, testers conduct a further step to identify additional technical data about the target system, such as types of running software, operating system details, connected systems, user accounts, and user roles.
The step aims to enhance the tester’s understanding and inform subsequent testing actions.
4. Vulnerability discovery
Utilize gathered information in previous steps, testers identify public vulnerabilities in the public components target systems and networks. This involves searching for known common vulnerabilities and exposures (CVEs) in system components, versions, or third-party applications.
5. Exploitation
At this stage, pen testers craft malicious requests or use social engineering techniques to exploit the identified vulnerabilities actively. The objective is to penetrate the system efficiently and navigate to the core.
6. Privilege escalation
After gaining initial access, testers attempt to escalate privileges to achieve complete control over the system and database.
This stage is crucial for assessing the potential impact of a successful attack and understanding the extent of compromised access.
7. Reporting and communicating
After completing black box penetration testing, the test team comprehensively documents findings, outlining discovered vulnerabilities, exploitation methods, and potential risks.
Then, the test team presents a clear and actionable report, providing insights for stakeholders on areas of concern and recommended remediation steps.
8. Remediation and follow-up
At the remediation stage, the test team and stakeholders coordinate to fix and address identified vulnerabilities.
Follow-up assessments should be conducted to verify the effectiveness of remediation efforts and ensure a more secure environment.
How To Choose The Right Pen Test Provider?
There are cases when a company lacks internal capabilities for implementing penetration tests and seeks outsourcing. In such instances, choosing the right provider is crucial to delivering the expected outcomes.
Here are LQA’s suggestions for choosing the right pen test vendor:
Prioritize providers with expertise in your industry and familiarity with your specific systems and technologies.
Look for a provider willing to customize their testing approach to address your company’s unique security concerns and priorities.
Consider the vendor’s price-to-quality commitment, which assesses the cost of the services in relation to the value offered.
Investigate the provider’s reputation by reviewing testimonials, case studies, and online feedback from previous clients.
Emphasize the provider’s commitment to ethical hacking practices and integrity in handling sensitive information to ensure a trustworthy collaboration.
Your vendor should also communicate clearly, detailing their methodologies, findings, and recommendations in a way that is easily understandable for your team.
Black Box Penetration Testing by LQA
Enhancing cybersecurity testing involves engaging a specialized security firm to assess your business’s vulnerabilities and deliver a detailed report with recommended solutions, a crucial step in preventing cyber attacks.
Having more than 7 years of experience, and as the pioneering independent software testing company in Vietnam, LQA stands out as a prominent software quality and security assurance firm, offering a complete range of penetration testing services to fortify businesses against security threats.
Alongside black box penetration testing services, LQA provides comprehensive software testing services including white box, black box, web application, mobile application, API, manual, and automation testing services.
At LQA, we maintain up-to-date expertise on the latest threats, attacks, and vulnerabilities, employing industry-leading tools to conduct comprehensive penetration tests.
Frequently Asked Questions about Black Box Penetration Testing
1. What is the timeline for black-box penetration testing?
The timeline for black-box penetration testing can vary based on factors such as the scope, complexity of the target environment, and the specific testing objectives.
Below is a typical timeline for black box penetration testing:
Planning: 1 – 2 weeks
Target system’s information gathering: 1 – 2 weeks
Execution: 1 – 2 weeks
Reporting: 1 week
Communicate reports: 1 day
2. What is more costly: black box or white box penetration testing?
The cost comparison between black box and white box penetration testing is context-dependent. For example:
In case you develop the system in-house and have an internal test team who deeply understands the internal structure of the system, you can quickly kick off white box testing with minimal preparation. On the contrary, black box testing demands additional time and resources for information gathering, potentially costing more.
In another scenario, where a legacy system lacks documentation and internal teams lack technical insights, white box testing may become more expensive. This is because it necessitates a substantial investment in understanding the system, while black box testing can commence more promptly.
3. What is the difference between gray-box and black-box penetration testing?
Black box penetration testing requires no knowledge of the internal workings of the target system. Meanwhile, gray box penetration testing requires partial knowledge of the internal workings of the target system.
Final Notes On Black Box Penetration Testing
Black box penetration testing is among the three major pen test approaches: black box, grey box, and white box. Among them, the black box method serves as an independent and objective method, simulating real-world cyber threats without prior knowledge of the system’s internal workings.
Java testing frameworks play a pivotal role in ensuring Java applications’reliability, efficiency, and overall quality. In the dynamic landscape of software development, choosing the proper testing framework can significantly impact a project’s success.
This comprehensive guide aims to explore and highlight the top 8 Java testing frameworks that stand out in 2023, showcasing their features, strengths, and how they empower developers to ensure robust, error-free applications. Let’s get cracking!
What are Java Testing Frameworks?
Java testing frameworks serve as essential tools for developers, testers, and QA engineers engaged in test automation. These frameworks simplify the creation and execution of tests by establishing a structured set of rules, guidelines, and requirements.
Comprising various features like assertions, mocking, data management, and test runners, these frameworks contribute to enhanced efficiency and productivity in the testing process.
Going beyond mere efficiency in testing, a Java testing framework provides a meticulously guided blueprint for the entire testing process, covering aspects like test data information, scripting guidelines, test results, repositories, and more.
According to the PYPL Index, Java holds the second spot as the most widely used programming language globally. Additionally, there are currently 45 billion active Java Virtual Machines worldwide. Given the recent surge in the popularity of Java testing frameworks, this article will delve into the top choices available.
What are Java testing frameworks?
The 8 Best Java Testing Frameworks in 2023
Frameworks
Key features
Advantages
Disadvantages
Selenium
Browser automation supports multiple programming languages and cross-browser testing.
Cross-browser testing, wide community support, supports multiple programming languages.
– Steeper learning curve
– Slower execution compared to unit testing frameworks Java.
JUnit
Annotations for test methods, assertions, and parameterized tests.
Lightweight, simple annotations, good integration with IDEs.
Limited support for parameterized tests, lacks some advanced features.
TestNG
Annotations for test configuration, parallel execution, and data-driven testing.
Parallel execution, flexible test configuration, supports data-driven testing.
Limited community support, less popular than JUnit.
Cucumber
Descriptive feature files, step definitions, and scenario outline.
Easy-to-read scenarios, collaboration between stakeholders, reusability.
Requires a learning curve for Gherkin syntax, maybe too verbos.
Serenity
Rich reporting, integration with Selenium, and easy-to-read syntax.
Comprehensive reports, easy integration with Selenium, clear reporting.
Learning curve for advanced features, potential resource overhead.
Simplifies unit testing frameworks for Java, easy to use, and reduces test code duplication.
Limited to mocking, not suited for end-to-end testing.
JBehave
Executable stories, scenarios, step definitions.
Clear, expressive scenarios, easy to understand, encourage collaboration.
The learning curve for creating executable stories.
Selenium
Selenium, an open-source testing framework, is employed to conduct tests across various browser versions and operating systems. Despite being a library, it merits inclusion in the list in light of its widespread usage as one of the most commonly employed Java testing tools. Through the utilization of Selenium, testers can automate repetitive test cases, thereby accelerating release cycles.
Selenium Java testing frameworks
Key features
Can be used as a data-driven, keyword-driven, and hybrid testing framework
Execute in multiple operating systems: Windows, Android, iOS, macOS, and more
Support browser automation, and cross-browser testing
Advantages
Support numerous programming languages like C#, Java, Python, JavaScript, PHP, Ruby, and more.
Integrate with multiple popular automated testing Java frameworks like JUnit, TestNG, etc.
Easy to access, to learn, and to create tests
Allow parallel test implementation, accelerating efficiency and decreasing testing time.
Highly scalable by leveraging cloud-based automation grids
Disadvantages
Scarcity of built-in reporting facility
Only supports web application testing
Time-consuming for test case creation
When to use Selenium?
The developers can go for Selenium for the following requirements:
Cross-browser testing
Browser automation testing
JUnit
As the open-source foundation testing framework on the Java Virtual Machine, JUnit remains popular today thanks to its efficiency, fast results, and simplicity.
Rooted in the test-driven development (TDD) approach, which aligns with the “test a little, code a little” philosophy, JUnit aims to elevate code stability, enhance productivity, and augment quality. It facilitates the early detection of bugs and issues in the developmental stages.
Junit Java testing frameworks
Key features
Support various IDEs such as IntelliJ IDEA, VSCode, etc.
A simplified framework to deploy automated test scenarios
Allows retesting of all available scenarios
Disadvantages
No support for dependency testing and GUI testing
Not efficient for handling a considerable number of test suites
When to use JUnit?
The developers or QA Analysts can go for JUnit for:
Unit testing
Regression testing
TestNG
Inspired by the two prominent frameworks – JUnit and NUnit, TestNG is a more adaptable open-source test automation framework that offers some additional superior functionalities.
The “NG” in TestNG stands for “Next Generation”, symbolizing its evolution to address certain limitations observed in the frameworks that served as its inspiration. Renowned as one of the top Java test frameworks, TestNG stands out for its advanced capabilities, particularly in situations requiring the execution of a substantial number of test cases.
TestNG Java testing frameworks
Key features
Provides support for parallel testing
Provides XML and HTML reports and even helps generate custom reports
TestNG’s open API enables users to create custom extensions
Data-driven testing support
Multi-threaded code safe tests for your code
Sequence, group, and parameterize
Advantages
Provides various after/before annotations for setup and cleanup choices
Offers flexible API plugin and runtime configuration
Enables dependent test methods,multiple threaded testing, and data-driven testing
Disadvantages
Setup and installation can be time-consuming
Not recommended if you don’t have a priority list for test cases
Finding experienced experts can be difficult
When to use TestNG?
The developers or QA Analysts can go for TestNG for:
Unit testing
Functional testing
End-to-end testing
Integration testing
Cucumber
Cucumber functions as an automation testing framework designed for behavior-driven development (BDD), enabling testers to create human-readable acceptance tests that articulate a system’s behavior.
Utilizing Gherkin, a natural language parser, Cucumber facilitates the composition of plain-text functional scripts for enhanced clarity and comprehension.
Cucumber Java testing frameworks
Key features
Consolidates the documentation along with the specifications
Delivers a single report document
The specification gets updated automatically
Code reusability
Advantages
Better readability
Faster development time thanks to code reusability
User-friendly interface to reduce the technical entry barrier
Example tables can be used to automate test scenarios
Disadvantages
Complexity arising from the combination with Gherkin
Possible elaborations due to the given-when-then format
When to use Cucumber?
The developers or QA Analysts can go for Cucumber for:
Another automated testing framework for behavior-driven development (BDD) – Serenity stands out as a widely favored Java test framework, empowering Java developers to craft tests that are well-organized and easily manageable.
Serenity Java testing frameworks
Key features
Produces comprehensive documentation
Provides reports for project progress, test progress, results, and more
Create descriptive reports with a business-readable format for each test
Advantages
Easily integrated with various other frameworks like Selenium WebDriver, JBehave, JUnit, and Appium
Cleaner and more structured code creation
Highly effective for behavior-driven testing
Easy understanding and implementation by usingDomain-specific language (DSL)
Rich built-in support for web testing with Selenium
Highly readable, manageable, and scalable automation testing with the Screenplay pattern
Disadvantages
Requires constant communication
Creating feature files can be time-consuming
When to use Serenity BDD?
The developers or QA Analysts can go for Serenity BDD for:
Automated Acceptance Testing in a behavioral-driven development
Regression Testing
Mockito
Mockito is a popular, open-source Java-based behavior-driven testing framework. Mocking is a common technique in unit testing, as it simulates the behavior of dependencies to isolate the test to a specific unit.
The key advantage of employing Mockito is the absence of a need to manually create mock objects, as the framework generates them automatically. Mocks are generated through the use of annotations.
Mockito Java testing frameworks
Key features
Mocks concrete classes and interfaces, and can be constructed using annotations
Verification support i.e exact-number-of-times and at-least-once
Argument matchers for flexible verification with an option to create custom matchers as well
Clean verification errors support
Advantages
Easily create mock objects using annotations like @Mock.
Cost-effective and ideal for creating POC (proof of concept).
Better void method handling compared to other frameworks like EasyMock
Safe refactoring
Simple setup
No need for manual writing of mock objects
Disadvantages
No support for local variable mocking
No support for private and static methods
When to use Mockito?
The developers or QA Analysts can go for Mockito for unit testing
Spock
Built upon Java and Groovy, Spock is a framework designed for behavior-driven testing and specification, tailored for unit and integration testing. Spock tests can be authored for any programming language compatible with the Java Virtual Machine (JVM).
Spock Java testing frameworks
Key features
Support for data-driven testing
Comprehensive documentation
Access to in-built mocking and stubbing
Advantages
Excellent code readability
Strong and simple Domain-Specific Language (DSL)
Compatible with most Java IDEs and build tools
User-friendly interface
Shorter and crispier parameterization
Disadvantages
Requires a basic understanding of Groovy
When to use Spock?
The developers or QA Analysts can go for Spock for:
API testing
Data-driven testing
JBehave
JBehave is one of the automated testing frameworks Java, often employed in conjunction with Selenium drivers, and is geared towards supporting Behavior-driven development (BDD). It ranks among the top Java testing frameworks specifically utilized for BDD testing, commonly paired with Selenium WebDriver for Java.
Jbehave Java testing frameworks
Key features
Allows user stories to be executed concurrently and grouped as classpath or URL-based resources
Generates pending steps automatically
Documents user stories with customizable meta information
Annotation-based configuration and Steps class specifications
Provides a comprehensive reporting functionality
Advantages
Powerful reporting mechanism
Simplicity and ease of use
Easy Java integration testing frameworks with other annotation unit testing frameworks such as JUnit
Provides extensive documentation (XML, HTML, or Text format)
Supports JUnit out of the box
Disadvantages
Requires a dedicated team to manage test stories
Relies on effective communication among members as it is key to the success of BDD testing
Supports stories only, not test features
When to use JBehave?
The developers or QA Analysts can go for JBehave for:
Acceptance testing
Tests created in a business domain language
The Advantages of Using Java Automated Testing Frameworks
Why is using testing framework Java necessary for high-quality software development? Let’s discover the numerous benefits that the Java testing framework brings to the table.
Java testing framework advantages
Automated testing for efficiency: Java automated testing frameworks allow for the automation of test execution, saving time and effort compared to manual testing. Automated tests can be run consistently and repeatedly, ensuring thorough testing without the need for manual intervention.
Early bug detection: By integrating seamlessly with continuous integration tools, Java automated testing frameworks enable the early detection of bugs as code changes are introduced. This facilitates a proactive approach to bug fixing and contributes to overall software quality.
Support for large codebases: Java testing frameworks are designed to handle large and complex codebases, providing the scalability needed as projects grow in size and complexity.
Improved code quality: Java testing frameworks provide a safety net during code refactoring by quickly identifying any regressions or issues introduced by changes. This promotes a culture of code improvement and enhances the overall quality of the codebase.
Continuous delivery and deployment: Java automated testing frameworks are crucial for continuous integration and continuous deployment (CI/CD) pipelines. It ensures that only thoroughly tested code is deployed to production, reducing the risk of introducing bugs in the live environment.
The advantages of utilizing Java testing frameworks are clear, yet it’s necessary to consider certain factors when selecting the appropriate tool for your project.
Things To Consider When Choosing Testing Tools or Frameworks in Java
Determining the optimal Java automation testing framework for your project is not a one-size-fits-all scenario. To make an informed decision, it’s crucial to carefully assess the specific advantages and drawbacks of each framework in relation to your project requirements. Let’s break down some important things to consider when picking a Java testing framework:
How to choose Java testing frameworks
Testing project type: Define the types of testing you need to perform (unit testing, integration testing, functional testing, etc.). Different tools specialize in different types of testing.
Ease of use: Choose tools that are easy to set up and access. A user-friendly interface and clear documentation can significantly reduce the need for extensive training for your team.
Community support: Look for tools with an active community. A strong community ensures ongoing support, updates, and a wealth of resources such as forums, tutorials, and plugins.
Integration with build tools: Ensure that the testing tools integrate seamlessly with your build tools (e.g., Maven, Gradle). This helps automate the testing process and ensures that tests are run consistently.
License and cost: Consider the licensing and cost implications of the testing tools. Some tools are open source, while others may require a commercial license.
Compatibility: Check the compatibility of the testing tools with your development environment and other tools in your tech stack. Ensure that the tools work well with the versions of Java and other libraries you are using.
How Can LQA Enable You to Make the Most of Java Testing Frameworks?
Utilizing Java unit testing frameworks proves highly advantageous thanks to their comprehensive features, guidelines, and adherence to structural rules. These frameworks play a pivotal role in enhancing project efficiency and performance.
No one can deny the benefits the Java testing frameworks. However, choosing the proper Java testing frameworks requires a lot of careful considerations, factors and expertise. As a leading destination for software testing with technicians and professionals of more than 7 years of experience, Lotus Quality Assurance is ready to provide assistance in testing applications on browser platforms and real devices.
LQA’s comprehensive and automated testing framework can help businesses reduce the time and effort associated with traditional approaches. It seamlessly integrates with diverse development teams and projects, maintaining high consistency levels across structural processes, including design paradigms, communication, and automation.
Moreover, LQA proudly holds prestigious industry awards and certifications, attesting to our commitment to excellence in software testing. These acknowledgments underscore the reliability and quality of our services, reinforcing our position as a trusted provider in the field.
LQA software quality assurance awards
Contact us today for top-notch consultation and support in the realms of software testing and automation.
Frequently Asked Questions about Java Testing Frameworks
What is testing framework for Java?
Java testing frameworks streamline the testing process by automating it, enabling developers to write and execute tests for their code and analyze the outcomes. These frameworks establish a blueprint for the testing cycle, defining the structure and strategy of the tests, including guidelines for test data, scripting, test results, and repositories.
What are the differences between Java testing frameworks vs libraries?
Java testing frameworks, such as JUnit and TestNG, provide comprehensive structures for organizing and executing tests. They define conventions for test design, control the flow of test execution, and offer features like parameterized tests and test suites. In contrast, testing libraries, like AssertJ and Mockito, focus on specific functionalities, such as assertion methods and utilities, without imposing a specific test structure. Libraries offer more flexibility, allowing developers to make decisions about test organization and execution flow based on their specific needs.
Which Java framework is commonly used for running Java unit tests?
JUnit is a widely adopted testing framework for running Java unit tests. It provides annotations for test methods, supports assertions for result verification, and offers various runners for executing tests. JUnit is well-integrated with popular IDEs and build tools, making it a standard choice for developers. Another notable framework is TestNG, which also enjoys widespread use. TestNG provides additional features like parallel test execution, data-driven testing, and flexible configuration options, making it suitable for various testing scenarios. The choice between JUnit and TestNG often depends on project requirements and developer preferences.
Final Thoughts About Java Testing Frameworks
Java testing frameworks provide well-defined guidelines, regulations, and robust functionalities that can significantly boost the effectiveness and efficiency of software development projects. The selection of an appropriate Java testing framework holds paramount importance in ensuring the success of the software development lifecycle.
This article delves into the examination of the 8 most popular and innovative Java testing frameworks favored by both developers and testers. Through our comprehensive Java testing frameworks comparison and analysis, it becomes evident that each framework possesses distinctive attributes, accompanied by its own set of advantages and disadvantages. Ultimately, the choice among them hinges on the specific requirements of your project and the testing type for your software applications.
The collaboration of a proficient Java testing framework with LQA’s robust software testing solutions and professional experts can streamline your software development efforts and elevate the overall quality of your software. Whether your focus is on cost management, accelerating time-to-market, or advancing quality assurance procedures, LQA checks all the relevant boxes.
Feel free to reach out to us today for expert consultation and assistance in the realms of software testing and automation.
In the dynamic landscape of software development, the journey to crafting flawless and reliable applications begins with a well-defined roadmap — a test plan. As developers, project managers, and decision-makers embark on the quest for software excellence, this article explores the pivotal role of a meticulously designed test plan. Let’s get cracking!
What is A Test Plan?
A test plan is a comprehensive document that outlines the approach, scope, resources, schedule, and activities required for testing a software application or system. It serves as a roadmap for the testing team, providing a detailed guide on how testing will be conducted throughout the development lifecycle.
Essential Components of Every Test Plan
A well-structured test plan includes several essential components that collectively guide the testing process. Here are the key elements that should be present in every test plan:
Essential Components of Every Test Plan
Introduction
Provides an overview of the test plan.
Introduces the purpose, objectives, and scope of the testing effort.
Specifies the document’s intended audience and any relevant references.
Test items
Lists the specific components or features of the software to be tested.
Clearly defines what is included and excluded from the testing scope.
Test deliverables
Enumerates the tangible outputs expected from the testing process.
Includes items like test cases, test scripts, test data, and test reports.
Testing schedule
Outlines the timeline for different testing phases.
Includes start and end dates for each testing level (unit testing, integration testing, etc.).
Resource requirements
Specifies the personnel, hardware, software, and tools necessary for testing.
Ensures that the testing team has the required resources to execute the plan.
Specifies the structure of test cases, including input data, expected results, and execution steps.
Test execution
Describes the process for executing tests.
Outlines the sequence, responsibilities, and any specific instructions for test execution.
Defect reporting
Explains the process for reporting and managing defects.
Defines the format for defect reports and the severity/priority classification.
Risks and contingencies
Identifies potential risks to the testing process.
Describes contingency plans and mitigation strategies for addressing risks.
Review and approval
Specifies the process for reviewing and approving the test plan.
Outlines the roles and responsibilities of individuals involved in the review and approval process.
Documentation
Lists all the documentation associated with the testing process.
Includes references to test cases, test scripts, and any other relevant documentation.
Appendix
Contains additional information or supporting documents.
May include glossaries, acronyms, or supplementary details.
In case running an in-house testing team is not familiar to you, outsourcing QA to experts is an optimal choice as it can ensure the objective view, save costs and help you focus on core competencies.
Lotus Quality Assurance – the first independent software testing company in Vietnam, offers ranges of software testing services from mobile app testing, web app testing to embedded software testing. With a vast pool of battle-hardened QA engineers, your business can rest assured that the software will run smoothly.
How to Create A Test Plan?
In the ever-evolving landscape of software development, the importance of a well-structured test plan cannot be overstated. For CTOs, project managers, and other IT decision-makers, creating an effective test plan is not just a best practice; it’s a critical component of ensuring the success and reliability of software systems. Let’s zoom in on the preparation, execution, and post-testing.
How to Create A Test Plan
Preparation – everything to do before testing software
Before diving into the execution of tests, meticulous preparation sets the stage for a systematic and successful testing process.
Define clear objectives and scope: Begin by clearly articulating the objectives of the testing process. What are you aiming to achieve with the tests? Define the scope of testing, outlining what functionalities will be covered and, equally important, what will not.
Identify stakeholders and input: Recognize the key stakeholders who will play a role in the testing phase. Gather their input to ensure that the test plan aligns with the broader goals of the project. Collaboration and shared understanding are key at this stage.
Establish test criteria: Clearly define the criteria that will determine whether a test is successful or not. This includes acceptance criteria and exit criteria. A well-defined set of criteria provides a roadmap for the testing team and helps in making informed decisions.
Determine test levels: Identify the different levels of testing required for the project, such as unit, integration, system, and acceptance testing. Allocate resources and time for each level, considering the dependencies and relationships between them.
Create detailed test cases: Develop comprehensive test cases based on the project’s requirements. Each test case should include input data, expected results, and step-by-step execution instructions. This forms the backbone of the testing process.
Prioritize test cases: Prioritize test cases based on their criticality and potential impact on the project. This ensures that focus is placed on testing the most crucial functionalities, reducing the risk of overlooking key aspects.
Define test environment: Specify the necessary test environment, including hardware, software, and network configurations. Ensuring that the testing environment mirrors the production environment is vital for accurate and reliable results.
Allocate resources and schedule: Assign responsibilities for test execution and documentation. Allocate resources efficiently, ensuring that team members have access to the required tools and technologies. Develop a realistic and achievable test schedule, considering potential risks and dependencies.
Risk analysis: Identify potential risks associated with the testing process. Develop contingency plans to mitigate these risks and monitor them throughout the testing phase. A proactive approach to risk management is crucial for project success.
Execution – steps to follow to perform testing effectively
With a solid foundation laid during the preparation phase, the execution phase involves hands-on testing and meticulous adherence to the test plan.
Follow test cases methodically: Execute test cases according to the detailed plan. Follow the step-by-step instructions and document the results meticulously. This phase requires careful attention to detail and adherence to the predefined criteria.
Report defects promptly: As defects or issues are identified during testing, report them promptly. Effective communication is essential at this stage to ensure that the development team can address and resolve issues in a timely manner.
Collect data and metrics: Gather relevant data and metrics during the execution of tests. This information provides valuable insights into the performance and quality of the software. Metrics can include test coverage, defect density, and test execution progress. Find out essential QA metrics with examples to navigate software success.
Adapt to changes: Be flexible and adapt to changes as needed. If unforeseen challenges or changes in requirements arise, update the test plan accordingly. Agility and adaptability are key characteristics of a successful testing process.
Post-testing – what to do after running software testing
The post-testing phase involves analyzing the data collected during testing, communicating progress to stakeholders, and finalizing documentation for future reference.
Review and analyze data: Review the data and metrics collected during testing. Analyze the results to identify trends, patterns, and areas for improvement. Use this analysis to inform future testing processes and enhance overall software quality.
Communicate progress: Keep stakeholders informed about the progress of testing. Share test results, issues, and resolutions. Transparency in communication builds trust and ensures that decision-makers have a clear understanding of the software’s current state.
Finalize documentation: Ensure that all test documentation is complete and accurate. This includes updating test cases, recording any changes made during testing, and creating a comprehensive summary report. The summary report should highlight key findings, outcomes, and lessons learned.
Incorporate lessons learned: Reflect on the testing process and incorporate lessons learned. Identify what worked well and areas that could be improved. Use this feedback to refine and enhance the test plan for future projects, fostering a culture of continuous improvement.
The creation of a robust test plan is a strategic imperative for IT decision-makers overseeing software development projects. By investing time and effort in the preparation, execution, and post-testing phases, decision-makers can ensure the delivery of high-quality, reliable software that meets the needs of end-users and stakeholders.
Test Plan Template (Downloadable and Editable)
In case you haven’t create a test plan before and desire to nail it at the very first time, make a copy of our test plan template and tweak it until it meets your unique requirement.
The Importance of A Well-crafted Test Plan
A well-crafted test plan is an indispensable asset in the realm of software development, playing a pivotal role in ensuring the success, reliability, and quality of a software product. Here are several key reasons highlighting the importance of a well-structured test plan:
The Importance of A Well-crafted Test Plan
Define clear objectives and scope: A test plan serves as a roadmap by clearly defining the objectives of the testing process. It outlines what is in scope for testing, preventing ambiguity and ensuring that all stakeholders have a shared understanding of the testing goals.
Provide a systematic approach: By detailing the steps to be taken during testing, a test plan provides a systematic and organized approach. This helps testing teams follow a structured methodology, reducing the likelihood of oversights and ensuring comprehensive coverage.
Guide resource allocation: A well-crafted test plan allocates resources effectively. It identifies the personnel, tools, and infrastructure required for testing, ensuring that the testing team has the necessary resources to execute the plan successfully.
Mitigate risks: Through a comprehensive risk analysis, a test plan identifies potential risks associated with the testing process. By outlining contingency plans and mitigation strategies, it enables proactive risk management, minimizing the impact of unforeseen challenges.
Ensure comprehensive test coverage: The plan specifies the different testing levels, types, and methodologies to be employed. This ensures comprehensive coverage of the software, addressing both functional and non-functional aspects and reducing the likelihood of critical issues going unnoticed.
Facilitate communication: A well-documented test plan acts as a communication tool, conveying crucial information to stakeholders, including project managers, developers, and testing teams. It provides transparency, making it easier for everyone involved to understand the testing process and progress.
Aid in test case design: Test cases form the foundation of the testing process. A test plan guides the creation of detailed test cases, specifying input data, expected results, and execution steps. This ensures that testing is thorough and aligns with project requirements.
Enable effective test execution: During the execution phase, the test plan serves as a guide, detailing the sequence of test execution, responsibilities, and any specific instructions. This ensures that tests are carried out consistently and according to the predefined criteria.
Support change management: In the dynamic environment of software development, changes are inevitable. A test plan can be adapted to accommodate changes in requirements or project scope, providing flexibility while maintaining the overall structure of the testing process.
Facilitate post-testing analysis: After the completion of testing, the plan contributes to post-testing analysis. It provides a basis for reviewing collected data, analyzing test results, and identifying areas for improvement. Lessons learned from one project can be applied to enhance future testing processes.
FAQs about Test Planning
What is the difference between a test plan vs test case?
A test plan is a comprehensive document outlining the testing strategy, objectives, resources, and schedule for a software project. On the other hand, a test case is a detailed set of instructions specifying the inputs, execution steps, and expected outcomes for a particular test scenario.
What is the difference between test plan vs test strategy?
A test plan is a detailed document that outlines the approach, resources, and schedule for testing a specific software product, while a test strategy is a higher-level document that defines the overall testing approach for an entire project, including the testing methodologies, tools, and resources to be used.
Final Thoughts on Test Plans
In the dynamic and complex world of coding and debugging, a thoughtfully constructed test plan is the guide, the protector, and the guarantor of a software product’s reliability, performance, and ultimately, its success. So, let the test plan be your guiding light as you navigate the challenging seas of software development, paving the way for innovation and excellence in every line of code.
Should you have any further inquiry regarding test planning or software testing outsourcing, please contact us for free consultation.
In today’s rapidly evolving digital landscape, safeguarding software integrity is a top priority. White box penetration testingis a crucial cornerstone in the proactive defense strategy against emerging cyber threats. This detailed testing approach offers a unique viewpoint, much like a hacker’s perspective from inside the system, enabling a thorough exploration of potential vulnerabilities deeply embedded within the software.
As the digital world continues to expand and evolve, so do the sophisticated techniques of cyber attackers, white box penetration testing serves as a crucial tool in staying ahead of these threats by revealing weaknessesin the system’s core, allowing for proactive reinforcement of security measures.
Understanding the pivotal role of this method within software quality assurance is essential, as it not only identifies existing vulnerabilities but empowers organizations to proactively strengthen their software, fostering resilience against potential breaches and cyber-attacks.
What Is White Box Penetration Testing?
White box penetration testing definition, referred to as clear box or structural testing, is a technique that grants the tester access to the internal structure of the system to replicate a hacker’s actions and uncover potential vulnerabilities. This method provides a comprehensive understanding of the application, identifying all possible entry points into the system.
White box pentest is frequently employed to examine a system’s essential parts, particularly by companies that develop their software products, or integrate multiple applications. It is a method to evaluate a system’s security by assessing its capability to withstand various real-time attacks.
What is white box penetration testing?
Benefits of White Box Penetration Testing
An efficient white box penetration test helps avoid the issues, errors, and oversights that can leave your businesses vulnerable to hackers. Let’s explore more benefits of white-box penetration testing:
Comprehensive oversights of possible issues: White box penetration testing offers the most comprehensive analysis of internal and external vulnerabilities from the internal point of view, which is not available to typical attackers.
Early detection: White box penetration testing is integrated into the early development stages, when there is no user interface, and even before the software application is available to users, which enables detecting the vulnerabilities at a very early stage.
Extensive testing coverage: White box penetration testing can identify weaknesses in areas that are unreachable for black box testing, for instance, an app’s source code, design, and business logic.
Precise identification of weaknesses: Since testers have detailed knowledge of the internal workings of the system, they can pinpoint specific weaknesses, potential security gaps, and flaws in the code logic. This level of detail often leads to more accurate identification of vulnerabilities.
Benefits of white box penetration testing
Disadvantages of White Box Testing
Despite all the appealing advantages, white box penetration testing shows some drawbacks in certain situations:
High programming language requirements: Implementing white-box penetration testing involves internal network testing, which requires the testers to be familiar with critical programming tasks, like performing port scanning, SQL injection, and common attacks. By this, they will have a better understanding of the potential access points.
Limited real-world simulation: White box testing operates with complete knowledge of the system, which doesn’t accurately replicate real-world attack scenarios where attackers have limited or no knowledge. This approach might overlook vulnerabilities that would be apparent to external attackers working with less information.
Risk of biased testing: Testers, armed with complete system details, might inadvertently focus on known weaknesses or areas they are more familiar with, potentially overlooking other vulnerabilities that could be exploited by attackers with different perspectives.
Disadvantages of white box penetration testing
Black Box, Grey Box and White Box Penetration Testing Differences
Black box, grey box and white box testing are all types of penetration testing – the practice of testing a computer system, network, or web app to find issues, errors, and vulnerabilities that an attacker could exploit.
Black box, Grey box and White box penetration testing differences
To help you distinguish between black box, grey box and white box penetration testing, understand the benefits and limitations of each type, and when to apply it to get the best results, we have summarized it in the following comparison table:
Aspects
Black box penetration testing
Grey box penetration testing
White box penetration testing
Level of knowledge requirement
Require little or no knowledge of infrastructure and network
Require basic knowledge of the internal codebase, architecture, and infrastructure
Allow complete access to knowledge about the system’s infrastructure, codebase, and network
Level of programming language requirement
Require no syntactic knowledge of the programming language
Require a basic comprehension of the programming language
Require high and professional understanding of programming language
Standard techniques
Boundary value analysis, Graph-Based testing, Equivalence partitioning, etc
– Enables access to some internal system knowledge
– Optimize time and resources
– Understands thoroughly of the system’s internals
– Delivers comprehensive coverage of system security
– Pinpoints vulnerabilities in code and architecture
Disadvantages
– Limited insight into internal structures
– Incomplete view of vulnerabilities
– Possible overlook of certain critical vulnerabilities
– Restricted insight compared to White Box
– Dependent on available information
– Possible miss of certain system areas
– Time-consuming due to in-depth analysis
– Costly due to skilled personnel and time- Prone to false positives if not done carefully
When to use
– Simulating external threats
– Testing overall security posture
– Assessing response to unknown attackers
– Balancing depth and efficiency
– Targeted testing with some internal insights
– Limited access but need for deeper insight
– Assessing specific system components
– Analyzing code, architecture, and design
– Identifying and fixing intricate flaws
The selection of Black Box, Grey Box, or White Box Penetration Testing depends on the level of internal knowledge required, the depth of the assessment needed, and the specific objectives of your security testing rpojects. It’s often beneficial to employ a combination of these methodologies for a comprehensive security assessment based on the unique needs of the system or software being evaluated.
Choose the right penetration testing type with LQA experts
White Box Penetration Testing Techniques
When it comes to software security testing, security testing white box techniques review source code (the internal structure of the software application) to detect gaps that can make an application vulnerable to cybersecurity threats.
One of the main goals of white box penetration testing is to cover the complete source code as extensively as possible. Three main types of techniques for use in white box penetration testing include Path coverage, Statement coverage, and Branch coverage.
White Box Penetration Testing Techniques
Path coverage
This white box test methodology pays attention to all the paths. The path is a flow of execution that follows a set of instructions. The path coverage examines all possible paths of the software and ensures each path is traversed at least once. The path coverage is far more powerful than the branch coverage and is useful for testing complicated builds.
Statement coverage
Statement methodology checks if each functionality was tested one time. A statement indicates a functionality or set of actions for the application to decode depending on its programming language.
An executable statement is when the statement is put together and transformed into an object code, which will subsequently execute the action it was designed for. It helps to uncover unused or missing statements and branches as well as leftover dead codes.
The statement coverage evaluates if each line of code is executed at least once and helps find unnecessary or missing lines.
Branch coverage
A branch is one of many execution paths that the code can take after processing a decision statement like an if statement. This method is to confirm that all branch codes are tested.
The branch coverage is tested to check whether all branches in a codebase are exercised by tests and no branch leads to abnormal behavior of the application. It maps the code into branches of conditional logic and ensures that all branches are covered by unit tests.
One should ascertain that all codes have been launched at least once.
Common White Box Penetration Testing Tools
Several common tools/libraries employed in white-box penetration testing include:
Metasploit: Penetration testers utilize Metasploit to create and authenticate exploit code before deploying it in real-world scenarios. It’s instrumental for network security testing or remote system intrusion.
Nmap: As an open-source network administration tool, Nmap monitors network connections and scans extensive networks, aiding in host and service auditing as well as intrusion detection. It offers packet-level and scan-level analysis and is freely available for download.
PyTest:Pytest, a comprehensive Python testing tool, facilitates writing more efficient programs, supporting test-driven development (TDD) and behavior-driven development (BDD).
NUnit: NUnit is an open-source unit testing framework beneficial for the .NET Framework and Mono, aiding in writing better code and reducing application bugs.
John the Ripper: This fast password cracker identifies weak Unix passwords and is compatible with various operating systems such as Unix, Windows, DOS, BeOS, and OpenVMS. John the Ripper supports multiple password hash types commonly found in Unix systems and other patches contributed by users.
Wireshark: Functioning as a network traffic analyzer, Wireshark enables monitoring and analyzing traffic within system networks. It is open-source and widely recognized as the foremost network analyzer globally, primarily used by network administrators and professionals to troubleshoot network and system performance issues and filter various network protocols.
The tools employed in white-box penetration testing are similar to those used in other penetration tests, but the methodology for employing these tools differs significantly.
A process of software white box penetration testing comprises the following steps:
Essential White box penetration testing steps
Source code review
The initial step is understanding the internal structure and functionality of a target software application. This crucial step requires a test engineer to review thoroughly the software’s source code, and understand clearly how it works in order to set the foundation for designing test cases that will help encounter security weaknesses.
Select the testing areas
After understanding completely the software’s internal structure and how it functions, the next step is determining the areas that need to be tested.
As the test aims to encompass every potential scenario for running code systematically, it proves more effective to explore the numerous possibilities within a smaller area rather than a larger one, as the latter wouldn’t ensure the same comprehensive coverage.
Covering a vast area is feasible, yet it demands significant effort, resources, and labor for test coverage. Consequently, it’s not recommended to execute this extensive coverage only on demand. For instance, it becomes essential in situations where it’s crucial to safeguard every aspect of the system; in such cases, it would be deemed necessary.
Code & flowchart identification
This step adds a structured approach to the white box penetration testing by visually mapping the code execution process, facilitating a more organized and systematic analysis of the system’s functionalities.
Identify potential code lines: Thoroughly examine the system and identify all possible code segments associated with the functionalities or aspects under test. This involves a comprehensive review of the codebase, focusing on critical areas that could be potential sources of vulnerabilities.
Create a flow chart: Outline the flow of the identified code segments. Create a flow chart or diagram to represent the flow of code execution, including input points, processing stages, and output results.
Output tracing: Document and trace the output of each code segment within the flow chart. This helps in understanding how inputs are processed and how outputs are generated, aiding in the identification of potential vulnerabilities and understanding the system’s behavior.
Design test cases
Designing test cases is a pivotal phase in white box penetration testing, involving the creation of detailed scenarios for every identified code segment and system functionality.
Each test case outlines potential vulnerabilities, failure points, and specific testing procedures. It includes boundary testing, attack scenario simulations, and meticulous recording of testing outcomes to comprehensively evaluate the system’s security posture and ensure a systematic approach to identifying and addressing vulnerabilities.
Execute testing
The execution phase in white box security testing involves putting the devised plans into action, rigorously conducting tests according to the outlined strategies, and repeatedly iterating through the testing process until all identified systems are thoroughly examined, leaving no vulnerabilities unchecked.
This phase includes comprehensive testing, meticulous documentation of findings, validation of vulnerabilities, and continual refinement of testing procedures to ensure the system’s robust security against potential threats.
Reporting
Compile a detailed report that includes identified vulnerabilities, their potential impact, and recommendations for mitigation. This report should prioritize vulnerabilities based on their severity and guide how to address them.
Continuous improvement
Security is an ongoing process. Continuous monitoring, regular security assessments, and improvement in policies and practices are essential to maintain a robust security posture.
LQA continuous white box penetration testing solution
Having more than 7 years of experience, and as the pioneering independent software QA in Vietnam, LQA stands out as a prominent IT quality and security assurance firm, offering a complete range of penetration testing services to fortify businesses against security threats.
LQA software quality assurance awards
Alongside white box penetration testing services, LQA provides comprehensive software testing services including white box, black box, web application, mobile application, API, manual, and automation testing services.
At LQA, we maintain up-to-date expertise on the latest threats, attacks, and vulnerabilities, employing industry-leading tools to conduct comprehensive penetration tests.
LQA robust software testing tools
Key features of LQA’s white box cyber security solution:
White box penetration testing is a comprehensive security assessment method where testers have complete access to the internal architecture, design, and system details of the target. In this approach, the tester possesses full knowledge of the system’s infrastructure, including source code, network diagrams, and system configurations.
2. What is a white box penetration testing example?
An example of a white box test could involve analyzing the source code of a web application to identify vulnerabilities. Testers would scrutinize the code, look for potential security flaws, and examine the database structure and application logic to uncover weaknesses in the system.
3. What are black box grey box and white box penetration testing?
Black box, grey box, and white box penetration testing are distinct approaches used in security assessments to evaluate the vulnerabilities of a system. Here are the brief definitions of each type of penetration testing:
Black box penetration testing: A security testing method where testers have no prior knowledge of the system. They approach it as an external hacker would, without any internal information about the system’s architecture or design.
Grey box penetration testing: A security testing method where testers have partial knowledge of the system, such as limited access or some details about the internal architecture. This approach combines elements of both white and black box testing.
White box penetration testing: A security testing method where testers have complete access to the internal architecture, design, and system details of the target. Testers possess full knowledge of the system’s infrastructure, including source code, network diagrams, and system configurations.
4. What is the difference between black box and white box penetration testing?
The main difference between black box vs white box penetration testing lies in the level of information and access the testers have. White box testing involves complete access to the internal structure, code, and system design. On the other hand, black box testing operates without any knowledge of the internal system; testers approach it as an external attacker.
5. What is more costly black box or white box penetration testing?
Typically, white box penetration testing is more resource-intensive and thus can be more costly. It demands a higher level of expertise, time, and resources due to the need for in-depth knowledge of the system’s internal workings, including analysis and evaluation of code, architecture, and configurations.
6. What is the white box penetration testing methodology?
White box penetration testing is not just a single test but a methodology involving a structured and systematic approach. It involves various steps such as reconnaissance, scanning, vulnerability assessment, exploitation, and reporting. The white box security testing methodologies focus on a deep dive into the internal workings of a system to identify and mitigate potential vulnerabilities and security risks. White box testing is an essential part of a comprehensive security assessment, ensuring a thorough evaluation of system security from an insider’s perspective, and it plays a crucial role in strengthening the overall security posture of an organization’s infrastructure.
Final Thoughts About Whitebox Penetration Test
White box penetration testing serves as an effective method to strengthen software security. The level of complexity varies based on the application under assessment. Evaluating a small application that conducts straightforward operations is a swift process, often taking only a few minutes. However, larger applications necessitate significantly more time, ranging from days to weeks or even months.
Conducting these tests is crucial during the software development phase, both after its initial writing and following any subsequent modifications. Integrating white box penetration testing into your security strategy is pivotal, as it aids in preventing mistakesand oversights that could potentially expose your company to cyber threats.
If you are looking for experts in conducting white box testing for your IT environment or apps to check if they’re secure, don’t hesitate to contact LQA’s security testing team.
Meet LQA’s client, Ted, who owns an F&B chain with 21 brands and 400 restaurants. He deals with approximately 20 mobile and web applications with 5-6 releases for each per year to keep his customers happy.
Testing is a must for Ted. Whenever a new feature graces the scene, he dives into rounds of rigorous tests. And the whole process needs to be swift — perhaps at midnight — to keep his users undisturbed.
Realizing that manual testing seems impractical, Ted turned to LQA’s test automation solutions. And guess what? An impressive 70% reduction in regression test time, all while guaranteeing flawless apps.
That’s just a real example of what test automation can bring to the table. Let’s dig into the top 8 benefits of test automation in this blog.
Top 8 Considerable Benefits of Test Automation
Increased test coverage
Automated software testing can increase the depth and scope of tests, ultimately ensuring software quality and functionality.
Test automation allows the execution of massive complex test cases and lengthy test scenarios across various aspects of the software, covering extensive codebases and different functionalities. Test automation enables the creation of a diverse set of test cases that encompass positive, negative, edge, and boundary test scenarios, ensuring a comprehensive examination of the software.
By running automated tests in parallel and frequently, the development team can attain a higher level of confidence in the application’s functionality and quality.
Improved test accuracy
Unlike manual tests, which are heavily dependent on testers and can be prone to errors, well-written automated test cases follow predefined scripts and perform actions exactly as instructed.
Additionally, automated tests don’t overlook steps or make typos. They also run in a consistent, controlled setup and don’t encounter distractions from subjective and objective factors like humans. From that, automated tests deliver more comprehensive, accurate results and reduce the failure rate of software released to the market.
Easy reporting
In manual testing, reporting can be as cumbersome and monotonous as the test execution itself. It involves constant updates of the test progress, the number of test cases executed, the number of bugs fixed, etc. with a dependency on each other.
With test automation, you can get screenshots, videos, and other formats of reports tailored to specific needs, software areas, and desired reporting frequencies.
Fast development and delivery
If you want to adopt a CI/CD (Continuous integration & Continuous delivery) approach in software development, automating testing is essential.
Test automation at the heart of a CI/CD Pipeline
Typical components for CI/CD include
agile methodology,
continuous testing,
build automation,
deployment automation, etc.
During such a continuous cycle, you would want to have instant testing throughout your software development life cycle (SDLC) instead of many “pauses” with manual testing.
Here’s a practical example: One of our clients in the food & beverage (F&B) industry saw an impressive 70% reduction in regression test time after implementing custom test automation solutions developed by LQA’s expert automation testing team.
Apart from CI/CD adoption, test automation enables your team to spend less time testing and getting reports on newly developed features, as everything is automated.
Hence, continuous testing achieved by QA automation helps you to bring your product to market faster and gain competitiveness in a fast-evolving technology space.
Faster feedback cycle
Speeding up the feedback cycle is among the core benefits of test automation in agile development. With test execution and report generation automated, testers canprovide feedback about the software to developers faster and more regularly, and then the developers can fix the bugs right in the early stages.
By speeding up the feedback cycle, businesses can ensure the product’s time-to-market, minimize bug-fixing resources, and eliminate the risks of launching poor software.
Test efficiency enhancement
Automated software testing can achieve many things that manual testing struggles to deliver, and vice versa. In the case of test automation benefits, it makes many test variants much easier and more potent, such as:
Regression tests: Whenever a new feature is added, you can quickly rerun a vast number of test cases to ensure that the new updates haven’t adversely affected the existing functionalities.
Smoke tests: Automated smoke tests align well with the principles of CI/CD by providing rapid build validation of the software after each change.
Stress tests: When you aim to assess your application’s scalability, employing test automation tools to simulate thousands of concurrent users will be much more cost-effective than manual solutions.
The team’s morale improvement
QA automation can significantly boost team morale by alleviating repetitive and mundane testing and reporting tasks. When teams are freed from the monotonous aspects of testing, they can redirect their energy and creativity toward more engaging and strategic activities, and finally, pass those gains on to their organization.
For instance, consider a scenario where a QA team, burdened with repetitive manual regression tests after each code update, starts leveraging automation. As automated tests take over the routine checks, the team is now able to focus on exploratory testing, innovative test case design, and improve the overall testing strategy.
Good ROI in the long run
Test automation can require a relative initial investment, but it brings substantial cost benefits in the long term. The ROI of test automation is driven by:
Unbounding productivity
Reducing meantime
Enabling reusability of test cases and test scripts
Reducing the failure rate of software released to the market.
During development cycles, when source code undergoes modifications, automated tests can be executed unattended 24/7 to make the deployment process smoother, safer, and faster. Test cases and scripts are also reusable for similar scenarios, various software versions, and diverse data sets.
Also, test automation enhances test coverage and accuracy, leading to a lower failure rate upon software release. Therefore, software products reach end-users with fewer defects, enhancing customer satisfaction and minimizing the resources required for post-release support and maintenance.
Automation testing is a testing technique utilizing automated testing tools and test scripts to automate testing efforts. In other words, specified and customized tools are implemented in the testing process instead of solely manual forces.
Test automation doesn’t imply automating the entire testing process. Such steps like requirements analysis, test planning, and test case design are done manually before a test automation engineer programs the test script and automates test execution and reporting.
Automated tests, combined with manual tests, form a comprehensive software testing solution. The combination of manual and automated testing bridges the gap between these two approaches, leveraging the strengths of each while eliminating weaknesses.
Several types of tests can be automated. The decision on which tests to automate hinges on the alignment between the benefits of automated testing and project needs, timelines, and the software’s critical aspects, and so on.
Types of software testing to be automated include:
Unit testing: Testing individual units or components of the software in isolation.
Regression testing: Ensuring new changes don’t adversely affect existing functionalities.
Sanity testing: Evaluating whether the basic functionality of a new software build is working correctly or not
Functional testing: Validating specific functions of the software meet requirements.
Integration testing: Validating the interaction between software components.
Performance testing: Assessing the software’s performance under various conditions.
Load testing: Evaluating how the software performs under expected load conditions.
Stress testing: Assessing the software’s robustness under extreme conditions.
Smoke testing: Checking basic functionalities to determine if a build is stable enough for further testing.
Acceptance testing: Confirming whether the software meets the acceptance criteria.
Compatibility testing: Verifying the software’s compatibility with different devices, browsers, or operating systems.
Security testing: Checking for vulnerabilities and ensuring data security.
Usability testing: Evaluating the software’s user-friendliness and overall user experience.
Manual testing has been a cornerstone of software quality assurance for decades, offering a hands-on, exploratory approach to testing and allowing for creativity, adaptability, and human intuition.
However, manual tests can be time-consuming, prone to human error, and challenging to scale. This is where automated testing comes in to bring speed, repeatability, and scalability to the testing process.
Training: Train the testing team in the selected automation tools and frameworks to ensure effective utilization.
Starting with small pilots: Begin by automating simple, repetitive tests to gain confidence and experience.
Gradual transition: Gradually expand automation coverage as the automation solution stabilizes and the team gains proficiency.
Frequently Asked Questions about Automated Testing Benefits
What are the benefits of using a test automation tool?
An automation testing tool is software that enables you to define testing tasks and then automatically execute those tests, essentially enabling test automation. Automation testing tools encompass both existing tools like Selenium, Appium, and custom in-house developed tools.
So, what are the benefits of test automation framework?
Fast development and delivery
Increased test coverage
Improved test accuracy
Easy reporting
Faster feedback cycle
Accelerated test efficiency
Improved team’s morale
Good ROI in long term
What are the benefits of test automation in agile development?
Agile methodology in software development aims to constantly elevate the software until it reaches a product-market fit. During an agile SDLC, new features or improvements are constantly added, and automated tests instantly verify if these increments fit the existing codebase.
Particularly, when agile methodology is integrated with CI/CD practices to automate the process of moving code through the stages of development → testing → deployment, test automation plays a vital role in enabling continuous testing within this streamlined CI/CD pipeline.
Final Thoughts on Enormous Benefits of Test Automation
Despite some challenges like relative initial investment and scripting demands, the substantial benefits of test automation are indisputable, which are speed, accuracy, and high returns in software testing.
In synergy with manual testing, automation forms a comprehensive test solution, guaranteeing a holistic approach that combines human insights and automated precision. This blend optimizes software testing efforts, making it efficient and thorough.
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In today’s software development, quality assurance (QA) has solidified its position as an integral component to guarantee flawless software. The evolving landscape of websites and applications constantly necessitates more efficient QA measurements. This is where QA metrics come in to make QA processes more systematic and efficient!
In this article, we will delve into 12 absolute QA metrics and 7 derived QA metrics that will help you maximize the effectiveness of your test process and the productivity of the QA team.
QA Fundamentals: What is QA Testing
Quality Assurance (QA) in software development refers to the systematic process of ensuring that the final product meets specified requirements and standards. It involves comprehensive testing, identifying defects, and ensuring that the software functions smoothly before reaching the end users.
In the software development life cycle, QA plays a pivotal role. From the initial stages of requirement analysis to the final product launch, QA teams combine manual and automation testing methods to ensure the software aligns with the envisioned goals. They work closely with developers, detecting bugs and issues early, which minimizes costs and guarantees a higher-quality end product.
QA Metrics Fundamentals
What are QA metrics?
QA metrics are measurable standards used to measure and monitor the quality of the deliverables, processes, and outcomes.
For example, numbers of determined/passed/failed/blocked test cases.
QA metrics make QA processes more systematic and efficient. By quantifying key parameters such as test coverage, defect rates, productivity, and more, QA metrics aid in making informed decisions, mitigating risks, and continuously improving the software development process to align with QA goals and objectives.
Types of QA metrics
There are two major categories of software QA metrics: quantitative metrics (absolute number) and qualitative metrics (derived metrics).
Quantitative metrics: Quantitative metrics are absolute numerical values that measure specific aspects like the number of defects found, the number of test cases executed, or the percentage of code coverage.
Qualitative metrics: Qualitative metrics are derived numbers that evaluate the effectiveness and qualityof processes and products. They involve analyzing trends, patterns, and data relationships to draw meaningful insights.
At LQA, our testing team excels in both categories, leveraging quantitative metrics for precise measurements and qualitative metrics for deeper insights into the overall software quality and testing effectiveness.
QA metrics for software success
Why Do QA Testing Metrics Matter?
Of course, a software quality assurance process can function without specific QA test metrics. Yet, the presence of precise QA metrics significantly elevates QA’s effectiveness and efficiency by providing measurable insights into the testing process and product quality.
QA metrics in agile empower project managers and decision-makers to
allocate resources effectively,
manage timelines,
ensure a smoother development process.
These metrics enhance the software’s overall quality and streamline development workflows, leading to successful project outcomes.
Quantitative metrics, in particular, offer a clear and numerical insightinto the various dimensions of the testing process, ranging from testing coverage to defect identification and overall efficiency.
Derived QA metrics, a step beyond quantitative metrics, are derived from various quantitative data points collected during the software testing process.
At LQA, besides absolute numbers, we often implement derivative QA metrics to help clients get a better grip on the effectiveness and thoroughness of testing efforts.
Test coverage
Test coverage measures how much of the software has been tested. It ensures that all critical parts of the software are verified.
Below are common test coverage metrics:
Percentage of code coverage: The proportion of lines of code tested compared to the total lines of code, reflecting the thoroughness of testing.
Percentage of requirements coverage: The percentage of requirements addressed by test cases, indicating requirement validation.
Percentage of critical paths tested: The critical paths executed out of the total possible paths in the software, revealing critical path coverage.
Percentage of high-risk modules covered: The high-risk modules tested compared to the total high-risk modules identified, indicating risk mitigation.
Percentage of interfaces tested: The interfaces tested compared to the total interfaces in the software, ensuring proper integration testing.
Test effort
Test effort metrics evaluate the human and time resources invested in various testing activities, providing insights into the efficiency and resource allocation.
Typical metrics to measure test effort:
Total person-hours spent on testing: The sum of hours each team member has spent on testing, reflecting the overall effort invested.
Average time to design a test case: The total time spent on test case design divided by the number of test cases designed, indicating design efficiency.
Average time to execute a test case: The total time spent on test case execution divided by the number of test cases executed, revealing execution efficiency.
Time spent on defect management: The total time spent on defect handling divided by the number of defects found, showing defect resolution efficiency.
Time spent on test environment setup: The total time spent on setting up the test environment divided by the number of test cycles, indicating environment setup efficiency.
Test execution
Test execution metrics provide an overview of completed tests and those awaiting execution. When recording test results, testers often classify them as passed, failed, or blocked.
Typical metrics for test execution:
Number of test cases executed: The total count of test cases executed during a testing phase, reflecting the scope of testing.
Execution time per test case: The total execution time divided by the number of test cases executed, indicating the efficiency of test case execution.
Number of test cases automated: The count of test cases automated out of the total, revealing automation coverage.
Number of passed/failed test cases: The count of test cases passed or failed, indicating test success.
Number of test case iterations: The number of times a test case is repeated or iterated, revealing reusability and robustness of the test case.
Defect distribution
Defect distribution metrics provide insights into the distribution of defects across different mediums. Hence, aiding in identifying common sources for potential improvement.
Here are common defect distribution metrics:
Number of defects per module/component: The count of defects identified in each module or component, aiding in defect prioritization and resource allocation.
Defects categorized by severity: The count of defects categorized by severity levels such as critical, major, and minor, aiding in priority-based resolution.
Defects categorized by functionality: The count of defects categorized by functionality like UI, database, and security, aiding in targeted testing.
Number of defects by testing phase: The count of defects detected in different testing phases like unit testing and system testing, aiding in process evaluation.
Defect distribution by cause: Defect distribution by cause involves categorizing defects based on their origin or cause, providing insights into areas for improvement.
Defect detection and recovery
Defect detection and recovery metrics measure the efficiency of defect detection and the speed of recovery processes, ensuring effective defect resolution.
Here are useful metrics for defect detection and recovery:
Defects found per hour of testing: The count of defects identified per hour of testing, reflecting detection efficiency.
Average time taken to detect a defect: For example, if it took 100 hours to detect 20 defects, the average time to detect a defect is 100/20= 5 hours. Moreover, for a quick and accurate average of the time use the average calculator by Allmath without using any formula.
Time taken to recover from a defect: The time taken to recover or resolve a defect, reflecting defect resolution efficiency.
Number of retests after defect fixes: The count of retests conducted after defect fixes, indicating the need for revalidation.
Defect reoccurrence rate: The percentage of defects that reoccur after being marked as resolved, indicating the stability of defect resolution.
Test team metrics
Test team metrics assess the productivity, efficiency, and performance of the testing team, aiding in team management and resource allocation.
Here are popular QA metrics to evaluate a test team:
Team productivity: The rate at which test cases or components are developed or executed by the team members, reflecting team efficiency.
Number of defects logged by each team member: The count of defects logged by each team member, aiding in defect tracking and individual performance evaluation.
Test case execution rate per team member: The rate at which test cases are executed by each team member, indicating execution efficiency.
Number of test environments set up by each team member: The count of test environments set up by each team member, reflecting efficiency in environment management.
Defects validated per team member: The count of defects validated or verified by each team member, indicating validation efficiency.
Test economy
Test economy provides insights into the cost-effectiveness and financial aspectsof the testing process, aiding in budgeting and cost optimization.
Below are commonly used test economics metrics:
Cost per test case: The cost incurred for testing each test case, aiding in cost allocation and optimization.
Total cost of testing per module/component: The total cost incurred for testing each module or component, aiding in budgeting and resource allocation.
Cost per defect found and fixed: The cost incurred for finding and fixing each defect, aiding in defect management efficiency.
Return on investment (ROI) of testing efforts: The ratio of the benefits gained from testing efforts to the cost invested in testing, reflecting the effectiveness of testing.
Cost of testing as a percentage of the total project cost: The percentage of the total project cost attributed to testing, aiding in project budgeting and financial planning.
These quantitative QA metrics provide measurable data corresponding to each derivative QA metric, allowing for a comprehensive assessment of the testing process.
Frequently Asked Questions for QA Metrics
1. What are quality standards for QA?
Quality standards for QA involve predefined criteria and benchmarks that a product or process must meet to ensure its quality.
These standards can encompass various aspects such as functionality, reliability, performance, usability, security, and compliance with industry regulations. They provide a clear framework for evaluating and assuring the quality of software throughout the development life cycle.
2. How do you measure quality in QA?
Measuring quality in QA involves a comprehensive evaluation of the software against predefined quality standards. This assessment is facilitated through a variety of quantitative and qualitative metrics in this blog.
Quantitative metrics include aspects like the number of defects, test coverage, and performance metrics. Qualitative metrics involve assessing user experience, feedback, and adherence to design guidelines.
A combination of these metrics offers a holistic view of the software’s quality.
3. How is QA productivity measured?
QA productivity is measured through various quantitative metrics that evaluate the efficiency and effectiveness of the QA process. These metrics include:
the number of test cases executed
defects detected
test coverage achieved
time taken for testing.
person-hours spent on testing
test case execution rates
Final Thoughts on QA Metrics
QA metrics help managers estimate the efficiency and effectiveness of test procedures. Embracing both quantitative and qualitative metrics yields a multitude of benefits. From cost-efficiency and resource optimization to product-market fit assurance, these metrics align development efforts with strategic goals.
Have an idea of outsourcing software testing in mind? Our insights will help:
In today’s digital age, cybersecurity testing is the cornerstone of a robust defense against cyber threats. In this article, we will delve into the world of cybersecurity testing, exploring the definition and significance of cybersecurity testing, the different types, why it’s crucial, the tools available, strategies for implementation, and how to measure success. Let our comprehensive guide help you strengthen your organization’s digital security.
What Is Cybersecurity Testing?
Before diving into the intricacies, let’s establish a foundational understanding of cybersecurity testing. At its core, cybersecurity testing refers to the process of evaluating an organization’s digital infrastructure, applications, and systems to identify vulnerabilities and weaknesses that could be exploited by malicious actors.
Cybersecurity testing plays a pivotal role in the IT industry by serving as the first line of defense against cyber threats. It enables organizations to proactively identify vulnerabilities, assess risks, and implement robust security measures. This not only safeguards sensitive data but also helps maintain customer trust and compliance with regulatory requirements.
What is cybersecurity testing?
What Are the Different Types of Cybersecurity Testing?
Now, let’s delve into the heart of cybersecurity testing, exploring the various types of security testing and their specific purposes. Understanding these distinctions is crucial for tailoring an effective cybersecurity strategy.
Penetration Testing: What is Penetration Testing?
What is pen test? Cybersecurity penetration testing, or cybersecurity pen testing, simulates real-world cyberattacks to assess an organization’s security posture. Ethical hackers, known as penetration testers, attempt to exploit vulnerabilities to identify weaknesses in systems, networks, and applications.
What is Penetration Testing?
Pros:
Realistic Assessment: Provides a realistic view of an organization’s security preparedness.
Identifies Critical Flaws: Uncovers vulnerabilities that could lead to severe breaches.
Prioritizes Remediation: Helps prioritize vulnerabilities based on their criticality.
Cons:
Resource-Intensive: Can be time-consuming and resource-intensive.
Limited Scope: Might not cover all potential attack vectors.
When to Use: Employ penetration testing when you need a comprehensive assessment of your organization’s security posture and want to identify critical vulnerabilities that could be exploited by cybercriminals.
Vulnerability Assessment
Vulnerability assessment focuses on identifying and prioritizing vulnerabilities within an organization’s IT infrastructure. This cybersecurity assessment test provides a comprehensive view of potential weaknesses, allowing organizations to allocate resources effectively to address critical issues first.
Vulnerability assessment in Cybersecurity testing
Pros:
Systematic Evaluation: Offers a systematic approach to identifying vulnerabilities.
Prioritization: Helps prioritize vulnerabilities based on potential impact.
Regulatory Compliance: Assists in meeting compliance requirements.
Cons:
Lacks Real-World Testing: Doesn’t simulate real attacks or exploitation.
Possibility to Generate False Positives: Can sometimes flag non-exploitable issues.
When to Use: Utilize vulnerability assessments for regular, proactive monitoring of your organization’s security posture and prioritizing remediation efforts.
Security Auditing
Security auditing involves evaluating an organization’s security policies, controls, and practices to ensure they align with industry standards and best practices. It helps organizations identify gaps in compliance and security protocols.
Security auditing in cybersecurity test
Pros:
Ensures Compliance: Helps ensure adherence to industry regulations and standards.
Policy Alignment: Verifies that security policies align with best practices.
Risk Mitigation: Identifies areas of risk in security controls.
Cons:
Limited to Policies and Controls: May not assess vulnerabilities in systems.
Doesn’t Simulate Attacks: Doesn’t simulate real-world attacks or exploits.
When to Use: Employ security auditing to validate compliance with industry standards and ensure security policies align with best practices.
Security Scanning
Security scanning uses automated tools to scan networks and systems for known vulnerabilities. This type of testing is essential for regular, proactive monitoring of an organization’s security posture.
Web application testing focuses on the security of web-based applications and websites. It assesses vulnerabilities such as SQL injection, cross-site scripting (XSS), web application penetration testing, and more to ensure the protection of sensitive user data.
Web application security testing pros and cons
Pros:
Protects User Data: Ensures the security of user data in web applications.
Prevents Attacks: Identifies and mitigates common web vulnerabilities.
Enhances Trust: Builds trust with customers by safeguarding their information.
Cons:
Resource-Intensive: Can be time-consuming for complex web applications.
Requires Expertise: Requires testers with knowledge of web vulnerabilities.
When to Use: Employ web application testing when you need to secure web-based applications, especially those handling sensitive data or customer information.
Network Security Testing
Definition: Network security testing examines an organization’s network infrastructure for vulnerabilities and potential security threats. It includes assessments of firewalls, routers, switches, intrusion detection systems (IDS), network penetration testing, tests internet security, etc.
Network security testing pros and cons
Pros:
Network Resilience: Ensures the network infrastructure is resilient against cyber threats.
Early Detection: Identifies weaknesses before they are exploited.
Protection of Sensitive Data: Safeguards sensitive data in transit.
Cons:
Complexity: Requires a deep understanding of network configurations and protocols.
Resource-Intensive: This can be time-consuming for extensive networks.
When to Use: Implement network security testing when you need to assess the security of your network infrastructure, detect vulnerabilities, and ensure the protection of data in transit.
Mobile Application Testing
As mobile devices become ubiquitous, mobile application testing is crucial. It ensures that mobile apps are secure and that user data remains protected. This testing assesses vulnerabilities specific to mobile platforms.
Mobile application security testing
Pros:
Protects User Data: Safeguards sensitive user data stored and processed by mobile apps.
Enhances App Trust: Builds trust with users by providing secure mobile experiences.
Identifies Platform-Specific Issues: Addresses vulnerabilities unique to mobile platforms.
Cons:
Diverse Platforms: Requires testing on multiple mobile operating systems.
Evolving Threats: Needs constant updates to address emerging mobile threats.
When to Use: Employ mobile application testing when developing or deploying mobile apps to ensure user data security and protect against platform-specific vulnerabilities.
Cloud Security Testing
With the migration to cloud-based solutions, cloud security testing ensures the security of data stored and processed in the cloud. It covers configuration vulnerabilities, access control, and data encryption.
Cloud security testing pros and cons
Pros:
Cloud Data Protection: Ensures the security of data stored in cloud environments.
Scalability: Scales with cloud adoption, accommodating growth.
Compliance Assurance: Helps organizations meet regulatory requirements in the cloud.
Cons:
Complex Cloud Ecosystems: Testing in diverse cloud environments can be complex.
Shared Responsibility: Cloud security involves shared responsibility with the cloud provider.
When to Use: Utilize cloud security testing when migrating to or operating in cloud environments to protect data and ensure compliance in a shared responsibility model.
Data Security Testing
Data security testing assesses an organization’s measures to protect sensitive data from unauthorized access, disclosure, or theft. It focuses on evaluating the security of data storage, transmission, and access controls.
Data security testing pros and cons
Pros:
Data Protection: Ensures the safeguarding of sensitive data, including customer information and proprietary data.
Compliance Assurance: Helps organizations meet data protection regulations and industry standards.
Prevents Data Breaches: Identifies vulnerabilities that could lead to data breaches.
Cons:
Complexity: Requires a deep understanding of data encryption, access controls, and data handling processes.
Resource-Intensive: Comprehensive data security testing can be resource-intensive.
When to Use: Implement data security testing when you need to evaluate the effectiveness of your data protection measures, ensure compliance with data privacy regulations, and prevent data breaches. This type of testing is crucial for organizations that handle sensitive customer or proprietary data.
Information Security Testing
Information security testing evaluates an organization’s overall information security posture. It assesses the effectiveness of security policies, controls, and procedures in protecting sensitive information from unauthorized access, breaches, and data leaks.
Information security testing
Pros:
Comprehensive Security Assessment: Provides a holistic evaluation of an organization’s information security measures.
Risk Mitigation: Identifies vulnerabilities and weaknesses that could lead to information security breaches.
Regulatory Compliance: Assists in meeting compliance requirements related to information security standards.
Cons:
Resource-Intensive: This may require substantial resources and time for thorough testing.
Complexity: Evaluating the entire information security framework can be complex.
When to Use: Employ information security testing when you need a comprehensive assessment of your organization’s information security measures, want to identify vulnerabilities that could lead to data breaches or data leaks, and ensure compliance with information security standards and regulations. This type of testing is crucial for organizations that handle sensitive information, including personal data, financial records, and proprietary information.
The choice of cybersecurity testing type depends on the specific needs and risks faced by an organization. For instance, penetration testing is ideal for organizations seeking to identify critical vulnerabilities and understand the impact of potential cyberattacks, while Vulnerability assessments are beneficial for organizations looking to maintain an ongoing assessment of their security posture.
By tailoring the type of cybersecurity testing to their unique circumstances, organizations can better defend against potential threats.
Why Cyber Security Testing?
Every year, the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) conducts research on cybercrime. In 2020, incidents involving compromises to business email alone resulted in losses exceeding $1.8 billion. This figure doesn’t even encompass the various other ways in which cyber threats can affect businesses. Given the multitude of security vulnerabilities, cybersecurity assessments hold significant value for businesses of all scales.
The consequences of inadequate cybersecurity testing can be severe, ranging from financial losses to severe damage to an organization’s reputation:
Financial Losses: Cyberattacks can result in substantial financial losses. These losses can stem from theft of sensitive data, the cost of remediation, legal fees, and regulatory fines. In some cases, the financial impact can be devastating, leading to business closures.
Reputational Damage: A cybersecurity breach can tarnish an organization’s reputation, eroding customer trust and confidence. Once trust is lost, it can be challenging to rebuild, potentially leading to customer churn and loss of market share.
Legal and Regulatory Consequences: Non-compliance with data protection regulations, such as GDPR or HIPAA, can result in hefty fines. Inadequate cybersecurity measures can lead to legal actions, further exacerbating financial losses.
Intellectual Property Theft: For technology companies, intellectual property theft is a grave concern. Cybercriminals can steal valuable IPs, compromising an organization’s competitive advantage.
Disruption of Operations: Cyberattacks can disrupt business operations, leading to downtime, loss of productivity, and additional costs associated with recovery.
Consequences of inadequate cyber security testing
The financial and reputational risks associated with security breaches underscore the critical importance of cybersecurity testing. Organizations that prioritize cybersecurity testing are better equipped to identify and mitigate vulnerabilities before they can be exploited by cybercriminals.
Choosing the Right Cyber Security Testing Tools
Selecting the appropriate cybersecurity testing tools is a crucial aspect of building a robust security framework. Here, we introduce a variety of cybersecurity testing tools and provide criteria for making informed choices that align with your organization’s specific requirements.
A Variety of Cybersecurity Testing Tools
The market offers a diverse range of tools to cater to different testing needs, including:
Wireshark: Wireshark is a widely used network protocol analyzer. It helps security professionals examine network traffic, detect anomalies, and identify potential security threats.
Burp Suite: Burp Suite is a comprehensive web vulnerability scanner and proxy tool. It aids in web application testing by identifying vulnerabilities like SQL injection and cross-site scripting.
OpenVAS: OpenVAS is an open-source vulnerability scanner designed for detecting vulnerabilities in networks and web applications. It provides regular updates for the latest threats.
Nessus: Nessus is a widely trusted vulnerability assessment tool that scans networks, systems, and applications for vulnerabilities. It offers a vast database of known vulnerabilities.
Snort: Snort is an open-source intrusion detection and prevention system (IDPS). It monitors network traffic for suspicious activity and can block threats in real-time.
OWASP ZAP: The OWASP Zed Attack Proxy (ZAP) is a popular open-source web application security scanner. It helps find vulnerabilities in web applications during development and testing.
Criteria for Selecting Suitable Tools
When choosing cybersecurity testing tools, consider the following criteria to ensure they align with your organization’s specific needs:
Compatibility: Ensure that the tool is compatible with your organization’s infrastructure, systems, and platforms.
Scalability: Choose tools that can scale with your organization’s growth and evolving security requirements.
Ease of Use: Opt for tools with user-friendly interfaces and adequate documentation to expedite the testing process.
Reporting Capabilities: The tool should generate comprehensive reports that are easy to understand, enabling efficient remediation of vulnerabilities.
Community and Support: Assess the tool’s community and support resources. Active communities and professional support can be invaluable when troubleshooting issues.
Cost: Consider the tool’s pricing structure, including licensing fees, subscription costs, and ongoing maintenance expenses.
Integration: Ensure that the tool can integrate seamlessly with your existing cybersecurity infrastructure and other security tools.
How to select the right cybersecurity testing tools
By carefully evaluating these criteria, you can select the most suitable cybersecurity testing tools to bolster your organization’s security defenses.
How To Implement an Effective Cyber Security Test Strategy
Establishing an effective cybersecurity testing strategy is paramount to safeguarding your organization’s digital assets. Here, we provide a step-by-step guide to help you create a robust testing strategy that aligns with your specific organizational needs.
10 steps to implement effective cybersecurity testing strategy
10 steps to implement effective cybersecurity testing strategy
Step 1: Identify Assets and Prioritize
Begin by identifying the critical assets within your organization, including data, applications, and systems. Prioritize these assets based on their importance and potential impact on the organization in case of a security breach.
Step 2: Define Objectives and Scope
Clearly define the objectives of your cybersecurity testing efforts. Determine the scope of testing, specifying which systems, networks, and applications will be assessed, as well as the types of tests to be conducted.
Step 3: Select Testing Methods
Choose the appropriate cyber security methodologies, such as penetration testing, vulnerability assessments, or web application testing, based on your identified objectives and scope. Ensure that these methods align with your organization’s unique security challenges.
Step 4: Develop Test Plans
Create detailed test plans that outline the specific tests to be conducted, including the tools and techniques to be used. Test plans should also include a timeline and responsibilities for the testing team.
Step 5: Execute Tests
Execute the tests according to the defined plans. During this phase, ethical hackers or cybersecurity experts simulate attacks and attempt to uncover vulnerabilities and weaknesses.
Step 6: Analyze Results
Thoroughly analyze the results of the tests, identifying vulnerabilities and assessing their severity. Prioritize vulnerabilities based on the potential impact and exploitability.
Step 7: Remediate and Mitigate
Develop a remediation plan to address identified vulnerabilities promptly. Ensure that your organization’s IT team or external experts can implement fixes and improvements.
Step 8: Retestthe systems
After remediation, retest the systems to verify that vulnerabilities have been effectively addressed. This step validates the effectiveness of your security measures.
Step 9: Document and Report
Maintain detailed records of all testing activities, findings, and remediation efforts. Create comprehensive reports for stakeholders and regulatory compliance purposes.
Step 10: Continuous Improvement
Cybersecurity testing is an ongoing process. Continuously assess and refine your cybersecurity testing strategy to adapt to evolving threats and technologies.
Remember that a one-size-fits-all approach to cybersecurity testing may not be effective. Customize your testing strategy to address your organization’s unique risks and challenges. Furthermore, integrate testing seamlessly into your development lifecycle to identify and rectify vulnerabilities early in the process.
How To Measure and Monitor Cybersecurity Testing Success
Measuring and monitoring the success of your cybersecurity testing efforts is crucial to ensure that your organization remains secure. Here, we provide guidance on setting measurable goals and tracking key performance indicators (KPIs) to gauge the effectiveness of your testing strategy.
Setting Measurable Goals
Setting clear and measurable goals is a fundamental aspect of an effective cybersecurity testing strategy. Let’s define objectives that align with your organization’s security needs and priorities.
Vulnerability Reduction: Set a goal to reduce the number of vulnerabilities over time. Monitor the percentage decrease in vulnerabilities after each testing cycle.
Incident Response Time: Measure the time it takes to detect and respond to security incidents. Aim for a reduction in incident response time to minimize potential damage.
Patch Management: Track the time it takes to apply security patches and updates after vulnerabilities are identified. Strive for faster patch management to reduce exposure.
Compliance Metrics: Ensure that your organization complies with relevant regulations and standards. Measure your level of compliance and work towards 100% adherence.
Measure and monitor cybersecurity testing success
Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)
Key performance indicators (KPIs) are essential for tracking and measuring the success of your cybersecurity testing program. Let’s explore the crucial KPIs that help gauge the effectiveness of your testing efforts and provide insights for continuous improvement:
Vulnerability Severity: Monitor the severity levels of vulnerabilities detected. Focus on reducing the number of high-severity vulnerabilities.
Time to Remediate: Measure the average time it takes to remediate identified vulnerabilities. A shorter time indicates efficient vulnerability management.
Number of False Positives: Keep track of false positives generated during testing. Minimizing false positives helps focus resources on genuine security threats.
Security Incidents: Track the number of security incidents over time. Aim to reduce incidents, demonstrating improved security posture.
Testing Coverage: Assess the percentage of systems, networks, and applications covered by cybersecurity testing. Strive for comprehensive coverage.
By setting clear goals and monitoring these KPIs, you can assess the effectiveness of your cybersecurity testing program and make data-driven improvements.
Lotus Quality Assurance (LQA) stands as one of the pioneering independent Software Testing Companies in Vietnam. We’ve expanded our reach with subsidiaries in Japan and the United States, enabling us to seamlessly cater to clients’ quality assurance needs across diverse domains, transcending geographical boundaries.
Over the years, LQA has honed industry-specific expertise to support our clients’ growth effectively. Our passionate and talented team’s unwavering commitment has garnered trust from clients in the most demanding markets, including the USA, Japan, Korea, and more.
We understand the challenges that you, as decision-makers have to face, in how to balance between quality and cost-efficiency. We aim to deliver a customized software QA solution package for your business’s requirements. We stand out by:
Industry Specialization
LQA’s industry specialization ensures that we not only meet your requirements but also exceed your clients’ expectations efficiently.
As Vietnam’s first independent software testing company, we boast over seven years of experience in safeguarding and detecting all software bugs and issues before market delivery.
Our QA solutions and processes have earned recognition through international and prestigious awards and certifications in software testing, including ISTQB (International Software Testing Qualifications Board), PMP (Project Management Professional), and ISO.
LQA software quality assurance awards
Compliance with TCoE
LQA’s commitment to Testing Center of Excellence (TCoE) compliance empowers us to provide your testing projects with a seamless blend of top-notch resources and methodologies, ensuring exceptional results and client satisfaction.
Advanced Technology
Leveraging cutting-edge testing devices, tools, and frameworks, our team guarantees the smooth operation of your software, delivering a flawless user experience and a competitive market advantage. With our advanced technological solutions, you can confidently detect all potential bugs and issues promptly before they impact your users.
LQA software testing tools
Professional Certificate of 150 QA Engineers
Our 150 highly-skilled software testing engineers hold prestigious international certifications such as ISTQB, PMI, PSM, and more. Continuous learning and skill refinement are integral to our engineers’ daily routine, ensuring they stay at the forefront of industry best practices.
LQA engineer’s software testing certifications
Proven Track Record
When it comes to reliability, our track record speaks volumes. Esteemed organizations, including TOSHIBA, Panasonic, SK Telecom, LG Electronics, MB Bank, Infiniq, SQC, Perxtech, Verb Data, Ascentis, Qualcomm, Kick ID, and many more, have entrusted their faith in our solutions. Our software testing case studies can help you delve deeper into our expertise and experience.
LQA software testing services clients
Choosing Lotus Quality Assurance means partnering with a proven leader in software testing, backed by a passionate team, industry specialization, cutting-edge technology, and a commitment to excellence.
Frequently Asked Questions About Cyber Security Testing
1. What is cybersecurity testing?
Cybersecurity testing is the process of evaluating an organization’s digital infrastructure, applications, and systems to identify vulnerabilities and weaknesses that could be exploited by malicious actors. It involves various types of tests, such as penetration testing, vulnerability assessment, and web application testing, to assess and enhance an organization’s security posture.
2. When should we conduct cybersecurity testing?
Cybersecurity testing should be conducted regularly and as part of an ongoing security strategy. It should occur whenever there are significant changes in your IT infrastructure, applications, or systems. Additionally, routine testing, such as vulnerability assessments, should be performed on a scheduled basis to proactively identify and address vulnerabilities.
3. What qualifications should we look for in a cybersecurity testing vendor?
When selecting a cybersecurity testing vendor, consider their experience, expertise, and certifications in the field. Look for certifications such as Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP), Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH), and Certified Information Security Manager (CISM). Additionally, check references and review their track record of successful testing engagements.
4. What are the 5 stages of penetration testing?
Before digging deeper into the comprehensive penetration testing process, let’s find out what is penetration testing in cyber security. Penetration testing definition: Penetration testing is a cybersecurity practice where ethical hackers simulate cyberattacks to find vulnerabilities in systems, helping organizations improve their security. Here are the five crucial stages of penetration testing: – Planning: Define the scope, objectives, and rules of engagement for the penetration test. – Information Gathering: Gather information about the target system, including IP addresses, network topology, and potential vulnerabilities. – Vulnerability Analysis: Identify and assess vulnerabilities in the target system, including configuration weaknesses and software vulnerabilities. – Exploitation: Attempt to exploit identified vulnerabilities to gain access to the system, mimicking real-world cyberattacks. – Reporting: Document the findings, including vulnerabilities discovered, their severity, and recommendations for remediation. Provide a comprehensive report to the client or organization. These stages are essential for conducting thorough and effective penetration testing.
Final Thoughts About Cyber Security Testing
In today’s interconnected digital landscape, cybersecurity testing is not an option but a necessity for organizations in the IT industry. The consequences of inadequate testing can be devastating, leading to financial losses, reputational damage, and regulatory non-compliance. By understanding the various types of cybersecurity testing, choosing the right tools, implementing effective testing strategies, and measuring success, organizations can fortify their defenses against cyber threats.
Furthermore, staying ahead in the cybersecurity landscape requires organizations to embrace emerging trends and continuously adapt their testing approaches. As cybersecurity threats evolve, so must our defenses.
Remember, cybersecurity is a complex and ever-evolving field. It demands a proactive approach and a commitment to ongoing improvement. Whether you choose to build an in-house testing team or partner with a specialized vendor like Lotus Quality Assurance or any other top software testing companies in the world, the key is to prioritize cybersecurity testing as an integral part of your IT strategy.
Through LQA’s cybersecurity consultations and solutions, we have the ability to implement tailored solutions for your business. Whether you need us to augment your existing IT team or provide comprehensive support, we’re here to assist. Reach out to one of our experts today to explore our capabilities further. We eagerly anticipate the opportunity to collaborate with you!
Are you looking for top automation testing companies but finding yourself overwhelmed by the multitude of choices?
We understand the confusion that arises when confronted with a giant amount of information you get after looking around from this website to that research without a clear comparison and analysis.
That’s why we created a list of the best companies for automation testing around the world, designed to simplify your decision-making process.
To create these top 10 testing automation companies, we undertook comprehensive synthesis and analysis from a variety of sources, including prestige review sites such as Clutch.co, GoodFirms.co, and G2.com as well as the automation testing companies’ websites, and portfolios. Subsequently, we refined the complete list based on the following criteria:
Substantial experience (>3 years of experience);
Prestigious awards and global certification in automation software testing;
Large-scale IT talent pool;
Core automated testing tools
Expertise spanning diverse domains and service offerings.
As the pioneering independent Software Testing Company in Vietnam, LQA has firmly established its stature within the software quality assurance sector by providing high-quality software testing services to companies of all sizes (including Fortune 500) over the past 7 years.
Boasting a team of 150+ software testing engineers, combined with the advantage of Vietnam’s low labor cost, LQA becomes a favorable automation testing destination for enterprises that demand comprehensive quality assurance solutions, fast delivery, and budget-friendly testing services.
Having completed more than 214 projects, and serving more than 60 clients from 9 countries worldwide, LQA’s software testing services’ quality has been proven by prestigious awards and certifications like ISTQB’s Silver partner, PMP, PSM, and a 94% client satisfaction index.
LQA – Vietnam’s Pioneer Independent Software Testing Company
Core automation testing services: Automation WinForms Tests, Automation Web UI Tests, Automation API Tests, Automation Mobile Tests, Performance Tests, Pen Tests, Selenium Automation Testing Services, etc.
Industry expertise: F&B, Healthcare, Construction, eCommerce, Education, Banking & Finance.
Key clients: TOSHIBA, Panasonic, Sk Telecom, LG Electronics, MB Bank, Infiniq, SQC, Perxtech, Verb Data, Ascentis, Qualcomm, Kick ID, etc.
Rankings and international certifications:
Top Vietnam IT Outsourcing Service in 2021 (Sao Khue Award – the most reliable and prestigious assessment program of Vietnam in the field of software and IT services)
ISTQB Silver Partner
Software Testing Company In Vietnam recognized by Clutch
Headquartered in New York, QAMentor is a reliable software testing provider for clients from all around the globe with 313 certified QA professionals covering all time zones in 8 different countries. With more than 12 years of experience in the software QA testing industry, QAMentor has served 437 clients from startups to Fortune 500 organizations.
QAMentor – New York-based Leading Software Testing Company
Core automation testing services: API Testing, Performance Testing Tools, Test Virtualization, Database Testing, Security Testing, Selenium testing services, etc.
QualityLogic is a US-based QA testing provider since 1986 that has successfully completed 6,000+ onshore testing programs. QualityLogic’s on-demand and full-spectrum automation testing solutions have helped organizations improve their web and mobile applications’ quality.
QualityLogic – On-shore Software Testing and QA Services
Core automation testing services: API Testing, Websites & Web applications Automation Testing, Mobile Test Automation services for iOS and Android
Highlight software test automation tools and programming languages: Selenium, WebdriverIO, Cypress, Katalon Studio, Mabl, Testim, Appium, TestComplete, Espresso, XCUI Test, Kotlin, Swift, Python, Ruby, JavaScript, Java, C#, and PHP.
Industry expertise: Retail, eCommerce, FinTech, Smart Energy, Media & Entertainment, Fitness, Education, Nonprofits, Telecommunications
Key clients: Verizon Wireless, Cisco, OpenADR, Hawaiian Electric, etc.
Rankings and International Certifications:
Top Software Testing Company in 2023 recognized by Clutch
Top Software Testing Company in the United States (2023) identified by Clutch
As a global independent software testing & QA consulting company, ImpactQA has provided software testing solutions to enterprises and Fortune 500 and 1000 companies for over a decade. Having successfully completed more than 500 testing projects, Impact QA’s 350+ QA experts have helped organizations ensure the quality of their digital transformation journey using automation.
Impact QA – Global Software Testing & QA Consulting Company
Core Automation testing services: Automated Web Testing, Automated Mobile Testing, Automated API Testing, Automated Performance Testing, Automated UI Testing, Continuous Test Automation, AI-Powered Automated App Testing, Cloud Automation Testing
Established in 2009, TestMatick masters more than 20 types of QA services and possesses deep expertise in various domains. With 125 highly-skilled software testers, Testmatick has helped 68 clients worldwide execute 3,568,997 test cases and detect 25,6987 bugs.
Testmatick – Leading Provider of Quality Software Testing
Highlight automation testing tools: Xamarin Test Cloud, MonkeyTalk, Jenkins, TestNG, Maven, Eclipse, Selenium, Ranorex, Telerik Test Studio, Visual Studio Test Professional, Mercury Quick Test Pro / WinRunner, AutomatedQA TestComplete, Appium, TestPlant, etc.
Industry expertise: BFSI, Travel & Hospitality, Media & Entertainment, Game, etc
Founded in 2019 in Seattle, QA Wolf is a hybrid end-to-end QA automation company and platform that provides a comprehensive software testing plan, automated test script writing, and QA team setup.
With unlimited, parallel runs and Zero Flake Guarantee, QA Wolf guarantees to achieve 80% end-to-end automated test coverage within 4 months.
Besides that, all test code is written in Javascript via their open-source platform which is built on top of Microsoft’s Playwright.
QA Wolf – End-to-end Test Automation Company
Core Automation testing services: SMS and phone calls, Emails, iFrames, Chrome extensio9ns, Multi-user flows, Integrations, and APIs
Highlight software test automation tools: QA Wolf customized testing platform & tools.
Industry expertise: Social network, Property management, HR & Recruiting, Blockchain & Web3, eCommerce & Retail, Healthcare, Fintech, etc
Since 2016, QA UTOR – a software testing company from Tallinn, Estonia has provided end-to-end QA services for enterprises from QA audit, QA staffing, UAT, QA outsourcing, DevOps testing, to automation testing, and more. UTOR’s automation testing process can ensure 24/7 test runs and maximize test coverage.
UTOR – QA services and Software Testing Company
Core Automation testing services: Test Automation Strategy, Automated Regression Testing, GUI Test Automation, Automated Performance Testing, Automation Script Maintenance, API Testing, Automated Web Testing, Mobile Automation Testing, etc.
Coming from Poland, DeviQA has been one of the global leaders in the quality assurance and testing market for over 12 years. Having completed 300+ testing projects from scratch, DeviQA offers a wide range of software testing and QA services for both web and mobile applications.
DeviQA – Proven Software Testing Partner
Core Automation testing services: Test Strategy Design, GUI Test Automation, Test Framework Building, Performance Testing, Regression Testing, Regression Testing, Web Apps Automated testing, Mobile Apps automated testing, API testing, etc.
Founded in 1992, QAlified is a well-established QA and Software testing company specializing in solving quality problems by reducing risks, maximizing efficiency, and strengthening organizations. They have served more than 100 worldwide clients and catered to 600 projects in various domains.
QAlified – QA and Software Testing Company from Uruguay
Core Automation testing services: Mobile App and Web App Automated Testing, Performance Testing, Security Testing, Test Automation Consultant, etc.
Highlight automation testing tools: Selenium, Katalon, Appium, SoapUI, Postman, etc.
Industry expertise: Finance, Government, Healthcare, etc
Key Clients: NASA, Gemological Institute of America (GIA), BlueCross & BlueShield, MAPFRE, Boscov’s, Liquibase, Loog Guitars, Santander, etc.
With 3 years of providing software testing solutions with a dedicated team of … engineers, clear communication capability, flexible 24/7 support, and timely delivery, HikeQA has become a rising star in the QA services industry. By using well-studied and proven strategies and various cutting–edge tools, HikeQA automated testing services can ally itself with clients to launch and operate fast and flawless software.
HikeQA – Independent Quality Assurance Agency
Core Automation testing services: Mobile app and Web app automated testing, performance testing, Regression Testing, etc.
Highlight automation testing tools: Selenium, Protractor, Appium, etc.
Industry expertise: Recruiting, Real estate, Property management, Travel, F&B, Finance, Media & Entertainment, etc
Key Clients: Everreal, Optix, Artrepreneur, Del Mar Vacations, Evati, The WorldCast On Demand Media Platform®, etc.
Rankings and International Certifications:
4.9 average rating on Clutch
5.0 average rating on Goodfirm
How To Choose the Best Automation Testing Companies?
Prior to selecting the top automation testing companies, it’s crucial to establish precise requirements. Clearly outlining your automated testing requirements, including the type of software, devices, and testing frameworks will help you communicate your needs effectively to potential providers.
When in the process of choosing the best automation testing companies, decision-makers should thoroughly explore several foundational requirements. To aid you in making a well-informed choice, we have compiled a catalog of key factors to take into account:
Key factors to choose the best automation testing companies
Expertise and experience: Check for the automation testing companies’ proven track record in software automation testing. Review their portfolio, case studies, and client testimonials to assess their experience and expertise in your domain and technology stack.
Technical capabilities: Evaluate the automation testing companies’ technical skills. They should have proficiency in the relevant automated testing tools, frameworks, programming languages, and automation methodologies. Make sure their testing tools are up-to-date and aligned with your project requirements.
Cost and budget: While cost is a factor in QA outsourcing, don’t just base your conclusion on price. Focus on the value and the services’ quality you’ll receive.
Legal and security assurance: Review the automation testing companies’ terms of engagement, including contracts, and other confidentiality agreements such as NDA (Non-Disclosure Agreement), to assure privacy and data security for your organizations.
Trial period: Look for automation testing companies that offer trial periods or pilot projects. Consider starting with a smaller project or a trial period that will help you assess concisely the company’s capabilities before committing to a long-term partnership.
LQA experts can help you choose between manual testing or automation testing
What is Automated Testing?
Automated testing is a software testing technique that uses automation tools and test sequences to automate the processes of examining a software’s functionality to ensure it meets the requirements before being released. Here are some test types that are normally automated:
Code analysis,
Unit tests,
Integration tests,
Acceptance tests,
API tests,
Regression tests,
System tests,
User interface (UI) tests,
Smoke tests.
When to Use Automation Testing?
When it comes to software quality assurance, there are two popular types, manual testing and automation testing. Manual testing is the traditional and fundamental test method that is best used when we don’t have a clear understanding of the software products or when the systems haven’t been stable. On the other hand, automation testing is considered a high-tech test method and is often applied to reduce resources and time consumed for the system that is stably functioning.
When to use automation software testing
Before deciding to choose which testing types for your project, it is crucial to conduct a thorough comparison between manual testing and automation testing. Each testing type has its own advantages and disadvantages in different situations. And here are particular scenarios in which you need help from the external automation testing companies:
When dealing with repetitive, duplicative tasks within a stable system
When aiming to minimize manual intervention
When striving to accelerate testing cycles and overall software QA processes in cases where the system experiences frequent updates
When aiming for improved transparency in testing activities, involving clear representation of test process data, performance metrics, and error rates through statistics and graphs.
Optimize your automation testing process with leading automation testing companies
Pros and Cons of Automation Testing
Here are the pros and cons of automation testing:
1. Pros of Automation Testing:
Time efficiency: Automation testing significantly decreases the time required to implement repetitive and time-consuming software testing cases. Automated tests allow faster and up-to-date feedback on software quality by running testing overnight or during off-hours.
Reusability: Automation testing scripts can be reused across different software versions or even different projects, saving time and effort in test case development.
Consistency: Automated tests execute the exact steps and checks consistently, avoiding the risk of human errors raised by manual testing.
Regression testing: Automated tests are particularly effective for regression testing, as they quickly notify if there is any unintentional side effects arise during new code changes.
Coverage: Automation can help reach more expansive test coverage by running a huge number of test cases that might be impractical to manual testing.
Cost savings: For a long-term period, automation testing can bring cost efficiency, as it decreases the demand for vast manual testing efforts in every release cycle.
Data-driven testing: Automation allows straightforward parameterization of test inputs, enabling the same test script to be implemented with diverse data sets.
Continuous integration/delivery (CI/CD) integration: Automated tests can be seamlessly integrated into CI/CD pipelines, providing immediate feedback on code changes and assuring the software’s quality in continuous deployment conditions.
Advantages of Automation Testing
2. Cons of Automation Testing:
Initial setup time: Developing automation testing scripts can take time, especially for complicated software applications. The initial investment in setting up automation tests might not deliver immediate outcomes.
Initial cost: Even though automation can lead to cost savings in the long run, there is an upfront cost for implementing automation tools and training the QA team.
Skill requirement: Automation testing requires technical skills, including proficiency in scripting languages automated testing tools, and frameworks. Testers and QA engineers need official training to become proficient in automation testing.
Not suitable for all tests: Some tests, such as usability testing or tests requiring human assessment, are better suited for manual tests.
Disadvantages of Automation Testing
Why is LQA An Excellent Choice Among Top Automation Testing Companies?
Among so many good automation testing companies, which companies are best for automation testing? We understand the challenges that you, as decision-makers have to face, in how to create a budget-friendly automation testing strategy, while assuring your software product’s quality.
That’s why LQA works hard to deliver a customized software QA solution package for your business’s requirements. We stand out by:
Expertise in Industries: Our specialized experience guarantees efficient and exceptional outcomes, verified by prestigious awards like ISTQB, PMP, and ISO.
LQA’s Honorable Software QA and Testing Awards
Budget Efficiency: LQA’s automation testing solutions ensure tasks are completed effectively within your budget, leveraging Vietnamese low labor costs.
TCoE Compliance: We align with the TCoE framework that helps optimize QA processes, resources, and technologies for your software testing project.
Strategic Location: Vietnam’s stable socio-economic status and government policies ensure timely project delivery. Tax incentives and VAT exemptions further reduce outsourcing costs.
Abundant IT Talent: Our diverse pool of testers accelerates time-to-market by encompassing various specialties like Mobile and web app testing, Automation (Winform, Web UI, API), Performance, Pen Test, Automotive, Embedded IoT, and Game testing.
LQA’s Abundant Software Testing Human Resources
Our Clients Also Asked Us
What is automated software testing?
Automated software testing is the use of automated tools and scripts to run tests on software applications, verifying and assuring that the software functions operate correctly. It strives to improve testing efficiency, accuracy, and coverage in the software development life cycle (SDLC).
What is Automation Testing as a Service?
Automation Testing as a Service (ATaaS) refers to the process of outsourcing automation software testing to an external QA provider. This vendor develops and executes automated test scripts to evaluate the functionality and quality of a software application.
When do you need QA automation services?
QA automation services bring the most benefits when organizations want to speed up the testing cycle, assure consistency in repetitious tasks, manage large or complex applications systems, support continuous integration, and save time and costs in the long run.
What are some benefits of automated testing software outsourcing?
Automated testing software outsourcing presents advantages such as accessing specialized automated testing talents and tools, cost savings, enhanced focus on core tasks, quick setup, and faster releases.
Wrapping Up
Automation testing delivers multiple benefits in terms of efficiency, consistency, and coverage, particularly for regression testing and repetitive tasks. However, it demands careful setup, skill development, ongoing maintenance, and a precise understanding of its restrictions to maximize its advantages. That’s why it is highly recommended that businesses should have professional automation testing companies to ensure the utmost quality of IT products.
Searching for top companies for automation testing requires considerable effort and time. This process includes investigating vendors’ expertise, time zone differences, and pricing.
Each automation testing companies have their advantages and disadvantages, therefore, before making the final call, it is crucial to dig deep into your project’s requirements to pick the right partner.
Should you have any further inquiries regarding automation testing companies or automation software QA, please drop LQA a line to find the best answers.
In the field of software testing, there are many software Testing methods applied today. In this article, we will share three basic methods that are most commonly applied and its advantages and disadvantages. They are black box testing, white box testing. and gray box testing.
1. Black Box Testing Method
1.1. Black Box Testing Method – Definition
Black box testing is a method of software testing that examines the functionality of an application (eg: what the software does) without peering into its internal structures or workings
1.2. Black Box Testing Method – Advantages:
Testers will not need to understand any code knowledge.
Can find more bugs.
Testing is done independently by developers, allowing objective views.
1.3. Black Box Testing Method – Disadvantages:
Only a small number of inputs can be checked and many program paths or few sections will not be checked.
The tests may be redundant if the software designer / developer has run the test.
2. White Box Testing Method
2.1. White Box Testing Method – Definition
White box testing (also known as clear box testing, glass box testing, transparent box testing or structural testing) is a method of testing software that tests internal structures or workings off an application, as opposed to black box testing.
While white box testing can be applied at the unit, integration and system levels of the software testing process, it is usually done at the unit level.
2.2. White Box Testing Method – Advantages:
Automate easily
Provide clear technical-based rules when stopping testing.
Forcing testing experts to think carefully about error testing so the bug will be thorough.
2.3. White Box Testing Method – Disadvantages
It takes time and effort.
There will still be errors.
Testing by this method requires extensive experience and expertise in testing.
3. Gray Box Testing Method
3.1. Gray Box Testing Method – Definition
Gray box testing is a combination of white box testing and black box testing. The aim of this testing is to search for the defects if any due to improper structure or improper usage of applications.
3.2. Gray Box Testing Method – Advantages:
It is a combination of black and white box testing, so might be more optimal.
Testing by gray box method can design complex test scenarios in a smarter way.
3.3. Gray Box Testing Method – Disadvantages:
It is difficult to link errors when performing a gray box test for a distributed system application.
4. Comparison Between 3 Software Testing Methodologies
Black-Box Testing
Grey-Box Testing
White-Box Testing
The internal workings of an application is necessary
The tester has limited knowledge of the internal workings of the application.
Tester has full knowledge of the internal workings of the application.
Performed by end-users and also by testers and developers.
Performed by end-users and also by testers and developers.
Normally done by testers and developers.
Testing is based on external expectations – Internal behavior of the application is unknown.
Testing is done on the basis of high-level database diagrams and data flow diagrams.
Internal workings are fully known and the tester can design test data accordingly.
It is exhaustive and the least time-consuming.
Partly time-consuming and exhaustive.
The most exhaustive and time-consuming type of testing.
Not suited for algorithm testing.
Not suited for algorithm testing.
Suited for algorithm testing.
Above are the 3 most basic software testing methods that any programmer needs to know. Choosing which method depends on the ability as well as the project you carry out.
Final Thoughts on Software Testing Methods
The diverse landscape of software testing methods plays a pivotal role in ensuring the reliability, functionality, and user satisfaction of software products.
By strategically incorporating Black Box, White Box and Gray Box testing approaches, development teams can uncover issues early, enhance overall software quality, and deliver products that meet both user expectations and industry standards. Embracing this trinity of testing methods empowers developers to navigate the complexities of modern software development with confidence and precision.
Frequently Asked Questions about Methods of Testing
What Are the Different Types of Software Testing Methods?
There are three universal methods of testing, which are Black Box, White Box and Gray Box. Each has its advantages and disadvantages that is helpful for particular situation.
How Do You Choose the Right Testing Method for Your Project?
Choosing the right testing method depends on various factors such as the project’s goals, requirements, timeline, and resources. Steps to pick a suitable testing method is to: Understand project requirements, Assess risk, Consider project constraints, Select appropriate methods, Prioritize testing phases.
What Are the Benefits of Implementing Different Testing Methods?
Using a variety of testing methods offers several benefits for software development: Early bug detection, Improved quality, User satisfaction, Efficiency, Risk mitigation, Cost savings.
Enumeration
1. Scoping the test
