Software Engineering basics - Release Testing

Release Testing

Definition:
Release testing is the process of testing a complete version of the software system before it is delivered (released) to the customer or end users.
It ensures that the software is ready for deployment, meets business and technical requirements, and performs well in a production-like environment.

It is sometimes also called pre-release testing or final system testing.

Purpose of Release Testing

• To verify that the software is complete, stable, and ready for release.

• To confirm that all functional and non-functional requirements are met.

• To ensure that no major defects remain that could affect end users.

• To validate that integration with external systems and environments works correctly.

When It Is Done

• After system testing is completed successfully.

• Before acceptance testing (in some organizations) or before the product is deployed to production.

Key Activities in Release Testing

1. Build Verification

   • Ensuring the final build is complete and correctly packaged.

   • Checking versioning, configuration, and dependencies.

2. Regression Testing

   • Ensuring that new fixes or changes have not broken existing functionality.

3. Functional & Non-Functional Validation

   • Re-checking major workflows and performance criteria in a production-like environment.

4. Installation & Deployment Testing

   • Verifying that the software installs, updates, and uninstalls correctly.

5. Security and Compatibility Checks

   • Ensuring the system is secure and works across various platforms or devices.

6. User Acceptance Testing (UAT) (sometimes part of release testing)

   • Users validate the system to ensure it meets their needs.

Example Scenario

Suppose a company has developed an online banking application.
Before releasing it to customers, the QA team performs release testing to:

• Verify that all banking features (login, transfers, payments) work correctly.

• Ensure response times are within limits.

• Check that all security patches are applied.

• Test installation on real servers or mobile platforms.

Only after these checks are successful, the software is approved for release.

Objectives of Release Testing

• Verify software quality before delivery.

• Identify any critical defects missed in earlier phases.

• Validate documentation, installation, and configuration.

• Ensure business processes are supported end-to-end.

Types of Testing Performed During Release Testing

Advantages

• Ensures the system is production-ready.

• Reduces the risk of post-release failures.

• Builds confidence for stakeholders and users.

• Verifies both functionality and environment readiness.

In Summary