ISTQB Foundation Level: Section 2.2 Test Levels and Test Types

The ISTQB Foundation Level Syllabus discusses test levels and test types in section 2.2.

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Test levels are groups of test activities that are organized and managed together. Each test level is an instance of the test process, performed in relation to software at a given phase of development, from individual components to complete systems or, where applicable, systems of systems.

Test levels are related to other activities within the SDLC. In sequential SDLC models, the test levels are often defined such that the exit criteria of one level are part of the entry criteria for the next level. In some iterative models, this may not apply. Development activities may span through multiple test levels. Test levels may overlap in time.

Test types are groups of test activities related to specific quality characteristics and most of those test activities can be performed at every test level.

2.2.1 Test Levels

FL-2.2.1 (K2) Distinguish the different test levels

In this syllabus, the following five test levels are described:

Component testing
Component integration testing
System testing
System integration testing
Acceptance testing

Test levels are distinguished by the following non-exhaustive list of attributes, to avoid overlapping of test
activities:

Approach and responsibilities
Test object
Test objectives
Test basis
Defects and failures

2.2.2 Test Types

FL-2.2.2 (K2) Distinguish the different test types

A lot of test types exist and can be applied in projects. In this syllabus, the following four test types are
addressed:

Functional testing
Non-functional
Black-box testing
White-box testing

2.2.3 Confirmation Testing and Regression Testing

FL-2.2.3 (K2) Distinguish confirmation testing from regression testing

Changes are typically made to a component or system to either enhance it by adding a new feature or to
fix it by removing a defect. Testing should then also include confirmation testing and regression testing.

2.2 Test Levels and Test Types

2.2.1 Test Levels

2.2.2 Test Types

2.2.3 Confirmation Testing and Regression Testing

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