Software testing

Software testing is a systematic and structured process used to evaluate and verify that a software application or system performs as intended. It involves executing software with the purpose of identifying errors, gaps, or missing requirements and ensuring that the final product meets both technical specifications and user expectations. In modern software development, testing is considered an essential activity that contributes directly to product quality, reliability, and user satisfaction.

At its core, software testing is not only about detecting defects but also about preventing them. By identifying issues early in the development lifecycle, organizations can reduce the cost and effort required to fix problems later. Testing ensures that the software behaves consistently under various conditions, including normal usage, extreme inputs, and unexpected user actions.