Software Quality Assurance Practice Exam

Which testing type evaluates the software’s performance under various system conditions?

1. System testing

2. Load testing

3. Integration testing

4. User acceptance testing

The correct answer is: Load testing

Load testing is a specific type of performance testing designed to evaluate how a software application behaves under a particular expected load. It simulates multiple users accessing the application simultaneously to assess its ability to handle the anticipated number of transactions or user activities. This helps identify any performance bottlenecks and confirms whether the software meets performance criteria. This type of testing focuses on key performance metrics such as response time, throughput, and resource utilization under varying circumstances, including peak load conditions. The ultimate goal is to ensure that the application remains stable and responsive when subjected to expected and unexpected user loads. Other testing types have different focuses: system testing evaluates the entire system's compliance with specified requirements, integration testing checks the interfaces and interactions between different modules, and user acceptance testing assesses whether the product meets user needs and is acceptable for release, but none address performance under various conditions in the same way load testing does.