What is Smoke Testing?
Smoke testing, also known as "sanity testing," is a preliminary test conducted to check the basic functionality of a software application before it undergoes more rigorous testing. The primary goal of smoke testing is to ensure that the critical features of the application work correctly and that the software build is stable enough for further testing. This type of testing serves as an initial check, helping to identify any major issues early in the development process.
Key Characteristics
- Smoke testing is a subset of functional testing.
- It is typically automated and can be conducted quickly after a new build.
- The scope of smoke testing covers the most essential functions of the application.
When is Smoke Testing Used?
Smoke testing is performed after a new build is deployed, whether in a staging or production environment. It allows the QA team to confirm that the essentials are operational, reducing the risk of proceeding with more detailed and time-consuming tests. If the smoke test fails, the development team is notified to address the critical issues before any further testing can proceed.
Benefits
- Early detection of critical failure points.
- Reduces the cost associated with late issue detection.
- Enhances the overall development efficiency.