Regression testing exists in several types to ensure software stays reliable after updates. Its major types are corrective, retest-all, selective, progressive, complete, and partial regression testing.

Some regression testing types fixate on small updates, whereas the other ones cover major changes or newer features. Knowing these types assists teams decide the soundest approach for each situation and maximize the benefits of regression testing.

Keep reading as we go through the different types of regression testing in detail.

Regression Testing Explained

Regression testing is a process where software is tested after changes in the codebase. Such changes could be bug fixes, newly added features, or updates. The main goal is to assure that the newer code does not affect the pre-existing functionality. Without regression testing, even small updates can cause major issues.

Software teams use regression testing to keep confidence intact in their applications. It assists in finding unexpected errors early. This makes the software more reliable for end-users. Regression testing is not about finding new bugs, but about assuring old features still operate as expected.

Different regression testing tools, like Selenium, Cypress, JUnit, vStellar, and TestNG, are used to automate and manage these tests efficiently. They help teams run tests faster and more consistently across different parts of the application.

6 Different Types of Regression Testing in Software Testing

There are several types of regression tests. Each type has a specific role and is used under different circumstances.

1. Corrective Regression Testing

Corrective regression testing is used when the software does not have changes in the system requirements. The existing test scripts can be reused without modification. It is best suited for stable software that receives minor updates.

You use corrective regression testing when the changes in the codebase are simple, like fixing small bugs or updating text. The perks include cutting down time and effort since you do not need to write new test cases. It assures that unchanged parts of the software continue to work as foreseen. This is often the fastest and most effective regression testing type.

2. Retest-All Regression Testing

Retest-all regression testing entails testing all pre-existing test cases. It audits the complete software after every change. This type is thorough but calls for more time and resources.

Make use of retest-all regression testing when there are major changes in the software, like adding a new module. It assures that every functionality is tested and no errors go unnoticed. The main benefit is full coverage of the software. But it can be slower paced, so it is usually used for critical systems where retaining reliability is very important.

3. Selective Regression Testing

Selective regression testing focuses only on parts of the software that are likely to be affected by recent changes, usually at the functional level. It reduces the number of tests but still checks important areas.

This type is useful when changes are localized, like modifying a single functionality or fixing a few bugs. The benefit is cutting down on time and resource consumption compared to retesting everything. It lets teams test quickly while maintaining confidence that the system works correctly.

4. Progressive Regression Testing

Progressive regression testing is applied when new test cases are added due to changes in the software requirements. It assures both old and newer features work together.

You use progressive regression testing when a new feature depends on existing functionality. For example, if you add a new payment option, progressive regression testing ensures not only that the new payment works, but also that it interacts correctly with the cart, discounts, and billing system. In other words, it tests dependencies between the old checkout flow and the new payment gateway.

The benefit is that it keeps both old and new code working in harmony. This type of testing is especially important for growing software projects with continual updates.

5. Complete Regression Testing

Complete regression testing involves verifying the entire software system after major updates or changes. It combines aspects of retest-all and progressive regression testing, ensuring that new changes do not introduce defects and that existing functionality continues to work correctly.

Use complete regression testing when the software is large, and updates could have an impact on many different areas. It is time-consuming but gives maximum assurance. The main benefit is thorough coverage across all QA testing phases of the application. It is usually applied before major releases to assure stability.

6. Partial Regression Testing

Partial regression testing checks only a section of the software, often at the module or component level. It differs from selective testing in scope, as it typically tests a group of related modules together rather than individual functions.

You use partial regression testing when a particular module or component is updated. It balances coverage and efficiency by testing impacted areas without checking unrelated modules. The benefit is a faster test process while still spotting most potential problems. It is ideal for modular software where components can be checked independently.

5 Best Practices to Do Regression Testing Right

Regression tests are only effective when done correctly. There are several different practices that improve results and overall efficiency.

Keep Test Suites Up-to-Date

Test suites should reflect the latest software changes. Old or redundant tests slow down testing and may miss new bugs. Routinely reviewing and revising test cases assures accurate results.

Updating test suites also removes unnecessary tests. This conserves time and keeps testing efficient. A clean test suite makes regression testing faster and more reliable.

Prioritize Critical Features

Not all features have the similar sort of impact on your software. Zero in on areas that are core to functionality. High-risk sections need thorough QA testing to prevent serious bugs.

Prioritizing critical features assures the most important parts work well. It reduces the chance of releasing broken software. Even small updates in core areas can cause major problems if not tested.

Automate Repetitive Tests

Automation QA tools can oversee repetitive regression tests quickly. Automation tools e.g., vStellar, run tests efficiently and cut down human errors.

Automation cuts time and allows frequent testing. It gives faster feedback to dev teams. Using automated regression tests is very essential for growing software projects.

Get vStellar for faster, more accurate regression testing that keeps your software reliable.

Integrate Regression into CI/CD

Running regression tests as part of CI/CD pipeline assures early uncovering of issues. Tests are executed whenever changes in the source code are pushed.

Frequent testing prevents bigger troubles later. Developers get timely feedback & can patch errors quickly. Integrating regression into pipelines improves the software’s reliability and speed of delivery.

Review & Continually Optimize

Monitoring test efficacy is important. Remove low-value tests and add new ones when required. Merging different regression types assures full coverage.

Regular optimization keeps testing relevant. It helps maintain software excellence while curbing unnecessary effort. Continuous fine-tuning is key to proficient regression testing.

Wrapping Up

Regression testing is core to upholding software quality. Different forms of regression testing serve different purposes. Using the right test type assures software operates as expected after changes.

Using a tool like vStellar makes regression testing easier. It assists in automating repetitive tests, manage test suites, and unifying testing into the CI/CD workflow.

Book a demo today and see how vStellar can streamline your regression testing.

FAQs

Why Is Regression Testing Important in Software Testing?

Regression testing in software QA testing assures that new code changes do not affect existing functionality. It helps maintain software stability and prevents unexpected bugs from reaching end-users.

How Can Teams Choose the Right Types of Regression Tests?

Teams can choose types of regression tests based on software changes, risk areas, and project size. Corrective testing is used for small updates, while complete or retest-all testing is suitable for major changes.

Which Software Testing Types of Regression Are Best for Major Updates?

Complete and progressive regression testing are ideal for major updates. They check both old and new features, ensuring the software continues to work as expected.

Can Regression Testing Be Automated?

Yes, many software testing types of regression can be automated. Automation tools like vStellar run repeated tests efficiently, reduce human error, and provide faster feedback on code changes.

What Are the Types of Regression Testing?

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