Regression Testing
Regression testing is a software testing practice that verifies whether recent code changes have adversely affected existing functionality. It involves re-running previously executed test cases to ensure that new features, bug fixes, or updates do not introduce new defects or break previously working parts of the system. This type of testing is crucial for maintaining software quality and stability throughout the development lifecycle.
Developers should implement regression testing whenever code modifications are made, such as after adding new features, fixing bugs, or performing system updates, to prevent unintended side effects. It is particularly important in agile and continuous integration/continuous deployment (CI/CD) environments where frequent changes occur, as it helps catch regressions early, reducing debugging time and ensuring reliable releases. Use cases include validating patches in production systems, ensuring backward compatibility in API updates, and maintaining functionality during refactoring.