Black Box Testing

Black box testing is a software testing method that examines the functionality of an application without peering into its internal structures or workings. This method of test can be applied to virtually every level of software testing: unit, integration, system and acceptance. It typically comprises most of the tests conducted, as it helps to uncover many errors or gaps in a system’s requirements. Black box testing attempts to find errors in the following categories:

• Incorrect or missing functions
• Interface errors
• Errors in data structures or external database access
• Performance errors
• Initialization and termination errors
• Initialization and termination errors

Black box testing is done by providing input to an application and observing the output. This input can be any combination of system parameters, environment variables, or user-defined values. The output is then observed and compared to the expected results in order to determine if the program is functioning correctly. This type of testing is often used to test software components in isolation, as well as to assess the overall system performance.

Degrees Applicable

Black box testing is applicable in many different degrees depending on the test objective. For example, it can be used to test a single module or unit of code, the integration of components, the system as a whole, or even the performance or usability of the system. By testing at different levels and from different perspectives, black box testing can help to uncover potential issues and errors that may have otherwise gone unnoticed.

Processes

The process of black box testing involves the following steps:

1. Identify the test objectives:

The first step in the black box testing process is to identify the objectives of the test. This involves understanding the requirements of the system and determining what needs to be tested in order to validate these requirements.

2. Design the test cases:

The next step in the black box testing process is to design the test cases. This involves creating test inputs and expected results in order to validate the system’s behavior.

3. Execute the test cases:

The next step in the black box testing process is to execute the test cases. This involves running the tests and observing the actual results.

4. Analyze the results:

The final step in the black box testing process is to analyze the results. This involves comparing the actual results to the expected results in order to identify any discrepancies.

Alternatives

White box testing is an alternative to black box testing. White box testing is a software testing technique that examines the internal structure and workings of an application. This method of test is often used to uncover errors or gaps in a system’s logic or design. White box testing is typically used in conjunction with black box testing, as it provides a complementary approach to uncovering errors.

Step by using step guidelines to do BlackBox Testing

1. Identify the Test Objectives: The first step in black box testing is to identify the objectives of the test. This involves understanding the requirements of the system and determining what needs to be tested in order to validate these requirements.

2. Design the Test Cases: The next step in black box testing is to design the test cases. This involves creating test inputs and expected results in order to validate the system’s behavior.

3. Execute the Test Cases: The next step in black box testing is to execute the test cases. This involves running the tests and observing the actual results.

4. Analyze the Results: The final step in black box testing is to analyze the results. This involves comparing the actual results to the expected results in order to identify any discrepancies.

5. Report and Document the Results: Finally, the test results should be reported and documented. This includes recording any errors that were found during the testing process and any necessary corrective actions that were taken.

Discovery Testing and Software Development Life Cycle (SDLC)

Black box testing can be used throughout the software development life cycle to ensure that a system meets its functional requirements. It can be used during the discovery phase of development to uncover any potential design flaws or risks. It can also be used during the development and implementation phases to test the functionality of the system and to verify that the system meets its requirements. Finally, it can be used in the maintenance phase to ensure that the system continues to meet its requirements and to uncover any new issues.