Types of Regression Testing
Overview
In this tutorial, we will learn about various types of regression testing. Regression testing is a type of software testing technique that verifies new code changes or modifications that haven’t introduced new defects or caused existing functionality to break. It checks that the previously developed and tested software still works the same way after the modifications, changes, and bug fixes.
Functional and Non-functional testcases are re-executed to check the application is working as expected.
Types of Regression Testing
The main types of regression testing are as follows:
- Corrective Regression Testing
- Progressive Regression Testing
- Selective Regression Testing
- Retest-All Testing
Corrective Regression Testing
Corrective regression testing, also known as Bug-fix regression testing, is a type of regression testing that specifically aims to verify whether the issues or defects identified earlier have been resolved and whether the fixes implemented did not introduce any new issues or regressions into the software. The primary objective of this testing is to ensure that the software is functioning as expected after the bugs have been fixed.
Progressive Regression Testing
Progressive regression testing, also known as incremental regression testing, is a software testing approach that involves testing new features and functionality continuously and incrementally as they are added to the software. The primary objective of progressive regression testing is to ensure that the existing functionality remains unaffected by the introduction of new code or features, even as the software evolves over time. This approach is especially useful in agile and continuous development environments where changes are frequent and iterative.
Selective Regression Testing
Selective regression testing is a software testing strategy that involves choosing a subset of test cases from a larger regression test suite. Its aim is to verify that specific code changes or modifications haven’t introduced new defects or caused existing functionality to break. The key idea behind selective regression testing is to focus testing efforts on the areas of the application that are most likely to be affected by the recent code changes.
This strategy is commonly used to save time and resources, especially when a full regression test is not practical due to constraints such as time limitations or resource availability. By carefully selecting the test cases that are most relevant to the changes made, selective regression testing ensures that the application continues to function as expected while minimizing the time and effort required for testing.
Retest-All Testing
Retest-All Testing also known as Complete regression testing is executing all testcases (full regression test suite). This type of testing is time-consuming and resource-intensive, as it involves running a full set of regression tests and retesting every defect.
The choice of regression testing type depends on the specific project needs, time, and the availability of testing resources.