White Box Testing, also known as Clear Box Testing or Glass Box Testing, is a software testing method that focuses on verifying the internal logic, code structure and the overall functionality of a system.
Unlike Black Box Testing, where the tester is unaware of the internal code and focuses on the system's behavior, White Box Testing requires knowledge of the internal workings of the (web) application.
Key Characteristics of White Box Testing
- Code-Centric Approach: White Box Testing is concerned with the internal aspects of the software you are testing. Things such as code structure, paths, branches and test conditions.
- Programming knowledge required: Testers conducting White Box Testing need to have programming skills, as they work directly with the source code of the program or website that they are testing.
- Types of White Box Testing: There are various types of White Box Testing, including Unit Testing, Integration Testing, System Testing and Acceptance Testing.
- Code Coverage: The primary goal is to achieve thorough code coverage, ensuring that all paths and conditions within the code are tested.
- Identify Logical Errors: White Box Testing is effective in identifying logical errors, boundary conditions and ensuring the proper flow of control within the (web) application.
- Early Detection of Defects: Since it is conducted at the unit or code level, White Box Testing allows for the early detection of defects. This enables developers to fix issues during the development phase, the so-called shift-left testing paradigm.
