Functionality Testing Methods

A.

Black-box testing is a method of software testing that examines the functionality of an application (e.g.

what the software does) without peering into its internal structures or workings (see white-box testing)

This method of test can be applied to virtually every level of software testing: unit, integration, system and acceptance.

It typically comprises most if not all higher level testing, but can also dominate unit testing as well.

For your exam you should know the information below: Alpha and Beta Testing - An alpha version is early version is an early version of the application system submitted to the internal user for testing.

The alpha version may not contain all the features planned for the final version.

Typically, software goes to two stages testing before it consider finished.

The first stage is called alpha testing is often performed only by the user within the organization developing the software.

The second stage is called beta testing, a form of user acceptance testing, generally involves a limited number of external users.

Beta testing is the last stage of testing, and normally involves real world exposure, sending the beta version of the product to independent beta test sites or offering it free to interested user.

Pilot Testing -A preliminary test that focuses on specific and predefined aspect of a system.

It is not meant to replace other testing methods, but rather to provide a limited evaluation of the system.

Proof of concept are early pilot tests " usually over interim platform and with only basic functionalities.

White box testing - Assess the effectiveness of a software program logic.

Specifically, test data are used in determining procedural accuracy or conditions of a program's specific logic path.

However, testing all possible logical path in large information system is not feasible and would be cost prohibitive, and therefore is used on selective basis only.

Black Box Testing - An integrity based form of testing associated with testing components of an information system's functional operating effectiveness without regards to any specific internal program structure.

Applicable to integration and user acceptance testing.

Function/validation testing " It is similar to system testing but it is often used to test the functionality of the system against the detailed requirements to ensure that the software that has been built is traceable to customer requirements.

Regression Testing -The process of rerunning a portion of a test scenario or test plan to ensure that changes or corrections have not introduced new errors.

The data used in regression testing should be same as original data.

Parallel Testing - This is the process of feeding test data into two systems " the modified system and an alternative system and comparing the result.

Sociability Testing -The purpose of these tests is to confirm that new or modified system can operate in its target environment without adversely impacting existing system.

This should cover not only platform that will perform primary application processing and interface with other system but, in a client server and web development, changes to the desktop environment.

Multiple application may run on the user's desktop, potentially simultaneously, so it is important to test the impact of installing new dynamic link libraries (DLLs), making operating system registry or configuration file modification, and possibly extra memory utilization.

The following answers are incorrect: Parallel Testing - This is the process of feeding test data into two systems " the modified system and an alternative system and comparing the result.

Regression Testing -The process of rerunning a portion of a test scenario or test plan to ensure that changes or corrections have not introduced new errors.

The data used in regression testing should be same as original data.

Pilot Testing -A preliminary test that focuses on specific and predefined aspect of a system.

It is not meant to replace other testing methods, but rather to provide a limited evaluation of the system.

Proof of concept are early pilot tests " usually over interim platform and with only basic functionalities Reference: CISA review manual 2014 Page number 167 Official ISC2 guide to CISSP CBK 3rd Edition Page number 176

The correct answer is A. Black-box testing.

Explanation:

Black-box testing is a testing technique that examines the functionality of an application without peering into its internal structure or knowing the details of its internals. The goal of black-box testing is to verify that the application functions as expected and meets the requirements specified in the design document or other specifications.

Black-box testing is also known as functional testing, as it focuses on the external behavior of the system or application, and does not concern itself with the internal workings of the application. The tester does not have access to the application's source code or underlying architecture, and instead, tests the application by interacting with the user interface, inputting data, and observing the output.

Black-box testing can be performed manually or using automated testing tools, such as test automation frameworks or scripting tools. The tester designs test cases that simulate different scenarios and inputs to the application, and then observes the output to ensure that it matches the expected result.

The other options mentioned in the question are:

B. Parallel testing: Parallel testing is a testing technique in which two or more versions of an application are tested simultaneously to compare their performance and functionality. It is used to verify that the new version of an application is functioning as expected, and to identify any issues or discrepancies between the old and new versions.

C. Regression testing: Regression testing is a testing technique that verifies that the changes made to an application do not adversely affect the existing functionality. It is performed after changes are made to an application, to ensure that previously working functionality has not been impacted by the changes.

D. Pilot testing: Pilot testing is a testing technique in which a small group of users are given access to a new application or system to test its functionality and provide feedback. It is used to evaluate the usability and functionality of the application before it is released to a wider audience.

While all these testing techniques are important, black-box testing is specifically designed to test the functionality of an application without requiring knowledge of its internal structure.