Because a database is such an important component of any software, its consistency and integrity must be checked and created in accordance with the application. Database testing is an essential stage in any software development process that should not be overlooked.
Let’s take a closer look at this technique to better grasp its significance, value, and role.
What Is Database Testing?
Because the database is the beating heart of every software application, it is critical to ensure that it is in good working order. Database testing is the process of ensuring that the database is in good working condition. This is carried out in a supervised testing environment. Back-end testing or data testing are other terms for the same thing. The schema, tables, and triggers are all checked during database testing. The method also verifies the accuracy and consistency of the data. Complex queries are written to load or stress test the database in this way. This allows you to test the system’s responsiveness and how well it can withstand various conditions.
Because database testing typically covers numerous different domains, it is a layered approach. You must test the user interface layer, the business layer, the data access layer, and the database itself while performing a comprehensive database test. Each of these layers works together to create a fully functional and responsive app. When building any type of software, it is critical to ensure that they all function properly.
Why Is Database Testing Important?
An application cannot be used properly unless it has a fully functional database. All information is kept in the database, which serves as the software’s critical back-end point. To store and create information, as well as reply to queries, applications rely on a properly functional database. Database testing is primarily concerned with ensuring that the values and information recorded in the database are correct. When performing a database test, the tester must have a thorough knowledge of the application. They must then build a list of all conceivable software questions. This is something that the development team can help with. The database test will next determine whether each query performs as expected in terms of its parameters.
An application may have hidden flaws if database testing isn’t done properly. This could result in data being lost, not being created, or being stored erroneously when using the software. This could have a significant impact on the app’s overall experience and performance. Database testing also aids in the reduction of the complexity of backend calls. It also helps to ensure that no malicious or erroneous data is stored in the application’s backend.
What should be tested?
Database testing, which is a type of backend testing, involves components of the software that are not visible to the user. This includes information flowing from the app to the database. Data mapping and data integrity are examples of this. Validation of ACID characteristics is also included. Atomicity, consistency, isolation, and durability are the four characteristics. During the DB testing activity, these are thoroughly tested. Because databases aren’t just for storing records, they also need to be tested for the veracity of established business rules.
All of these many aspects of the database, as well as information storage and queries, must be thoroughly tested.
How To Perform Database Testing?
Database testing can be done using a variety of methodologies and technologies. These vary depending on the application, the questions involved, and the software developers’ preferences. However, the essential goal of testing is always the same.
One technique is transaction testing. This procedure ensures that each of the ACID characteristics functions correctly.
After that, there’s schema testing. Schema testing ensures that all of the objects in the scheme function properly. This is accomplished by thoroughly inspecting each object. Here are some of the items that have been put to the test:
- Databases and devices
- Database names
- Database settings
- Device registration, data and reset
- Tables
- The space for each database
- Checking the keys and indexes
Basic database operations and procedures are also subjected to stress and performance testing to ensure that they function properly. The tester prepares specific queries and runs them through the system to see how the program reacts during stress and performance testing. Whatever technique and testing methods are utilized, the tester will need a thorough understanding of both SQL (Structured Query Language) and DML (Data Manipulation Language) (Data Manipulation Language).
Examples Of Database Testing
For this process, testers can utilize a variety of tools, each with its own set of features. The core function, however, remains the same. The process will involve these necessary steps:
- Preparing the environment
- Run the test
- Check the test result
- Validate this
- Report the findings
When setting up the environment, for example, the tester and software developers will brainstorm all conceivable queries that can be run via the program. After that, the test will consist of running through these queries and verifying data integrity. This implies that the data generated must be accurate, full, retrievable, and verifiable.
Monitoring data mapping, the various ACID properties, and confirming the veracity of the implemented business rules might all be part of the test.
Conclusion
Database testing can be done in a variety of ways using the many technologies available. However, the overall outcomes must remain consistent. With so many diverse features, factors, and processes that go into a database, testers must grasp the fundamental ideas. When designing any type of program, you should always make sure to thoroughly test the database.
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Also Read: https://www.guru99.com/software-testing.html