Mastering unit testing with the
Arrange-Act-Assert Code design pattern

Regression testing and retesting are two different types of software testing techniques, each serving distinct purposes in the software development and quality assurance process.

Regression Testing

Purpose: Regression testing is performed to ensure that new code changes or modifications to an existing software application do not introduce new defects or negatively impact the existing functionality. It aims to validate that the recent code changes have not caused unintended side effects elsewhere in the application.

Scope: It involves re-executing a comprehensive set of test cases that cover various aspects of the software, including functional, non-functional, and integration aspects.

Test Cases: In regression testing, both existing and new test cases are executed to check whether all previously tested features are still working as expected. This means you run a wide range of test cases, not just those directly related to the recent changes. Frequency: It is typically executed frequently throughout the software development lifecycle, especially after code changes or updates.

Frequency: It is typically executed frequently throughout the software development lifecycle, especially after code changes or updates.

Retesting

Purpose: Retesting focuses on verifying that specific defects or issues identified in previous testing phases have been fixed correctly. It ensures that the reported problems have been resolved without introducing new defects.

Scope: It is a targeted and focused testing effort, concentrating only on the areas of the application that were affected by the identified defects and the code changes associated with their resolution.

Test Cases: In retesting, you rerun the same test cases that initially exposed the defects. The objective is to check whether these specific issues have been effectively addressed.

Frequency: Retesting is typically performed as needed, specifically in response to defect reports. It is not part of routine testing activities like regression testing.

In summary:

In summary, the key difference between regression testing and retesting lies in their scope and purpose. Regression testing ensures that recent code changes do not break existing functionality across the entire application, while retesting is focused on verifying that specific defects have been fixed correctly. Both types of testing are essential components of a comprehensive software testing strategy, helping to maintain and improve software quality.