Dynamic testing

A method of software testing that involves executing the program code

Dynamic testing is a method of software testing that involves executing the program code with a given set of test cases. It is a validation process that checks the functional behavior of software and ensures that the software product meets the specified requirements. Unlike static testing, which involves reviewing the code, dynamic testing requires the actual execution of the software.

Overview

Dynamic testing is performed during the validation phase of the software development life cycle (SDLC). It is used to validate the output with the expected outcome and to identify any defects or bugs in the software. This type of testing is crucial for ensuring the quality and reliability of the software product.

Dynamic testing can be performed at various levels of the software development process, including:

• Unit testing: Testing individual components or modules of the software.
• Integration testing: Testing the interaction between integrated units or components.
• System testing: Testing the complete and integrated software product.
• Acceptance testing: Testing the software in the real-world environment to ensure it meets the business requirements.

Types of Dynamic Testing

Dynamic testing can be classified into two main types:

White-box testing

White-box testing, also known as structural testing, involves testing the internal structures or workings of an application. The tester has knowledge of the internal code structure and uses this knowledge to design test cases. Techniques used in white-box testing include:

• Statement coverage
• Branch coverage
• Path coverage

Black-box testing

Black-box testing, also known as behavioral testing, involves testing the functionality of an application without peering into its internal structures or workings. The tester is only aware of what the software is supposed to do, not how it does it. Techniques used in black-box testing include:

• Equivalence partitioning
• Boundary value analysis
• Decision table testing

Advantages of Dynamic Testing

• Identifies defects that cannot be detected by static testing.
• Validates the software against the functional requirements.
• Provides a higher level of confidence in the software's reliability and performance.

Disadvantages of Dynamic Testing

• Can be time-consuming and resource-intensive.
• Requires the software to be in an executable state.
• May not cover all possible execution paths or scenarios.

Also see

• Static testing
• Software testing
• Test case
• Regression testing
• Test-driven development

References

• Myers, Glenford J. The Art of Software Testing. John Wiley & Sons, 2004.
• Kaner, Cem, et al. Testing Computer Software. Wiley, 1999.