What are the key differences between static testing and dynamic testing?

Static testing and dynamic testing are two fundamental approaches to software testing. Static testing involves examining the code, documentation, or other artifacts of a software application without actually executing it. This includes techniques like code reviews, inspections, and static analysis tools. On the other hand, dynamic testing requires running the software to validate its behavior and performance. This approach includes testing methods such as unit testing, integration testing, and system testing, where the software’s functionality is checked through execution. Essentially, static testing helps identify issues early in the development phase, while dynamic testing confirms that the software works as intended in real-world scenarios.

Timing

• Static Testing: Performed early in the software development lifecycle, during the design and coding phases.
• Dynamic Testing: Performed later in the development lifecycle, during and after the implementation phase.

Objective

• Static Testing: Aims to prevent defects by identifying issues in requirements, design, and code without executing the code.
• Dynamic Testing: Aims to detect and fix defects by validating the software’s functionality and performance during execution.

Scope

• Static Testing: Focuses on non-executable artifacts such as requirement specifications, design documents, and source code.
• Dynamic Testing: Focuses on the executable software and its behavior under various conditions.

Defect Detection

• Static Testing: Identifies defects early, such as syntax errors, logical errors, and design flaws, before the software is run.
• Dynamic Testing: Identifies defects that occur during execution, such as runtime errors, incorrect functionality, and performance issues.

Cost

• Static Testing: Generally more cost-effective as it identifies defects early in the development process, reducing the cost and effort required to fix them later.
• Dynamic Testing: This can be more expensive as it requires setting up test environments, executing tests, and potentially fixing defects found later in the development cycle.

In summary, static testing is preventive, focusing on early detection of defects through examination and analysis, while dynamic testing is corrective, validating the software’s behavior during execution to ensure it meets the required standards and performs as expected.

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