Comparison Between System Testing Vs. Integration Testing

As software developers, we constantly face one of our job's most critical aspects: testing. As such, testing is an essential part of software development and is vital in ensuring our software functions as intended. However, testing is often confused with these two aspects of software development: System Testing Vs. Integration Testing - Which one is more efficient and why? As such, it is often unclear what testing is and what it is not. 

This article will discuss the differences and similarities  between System Testing vs. Integration Testing.

It will also include the significant pros and cons of system testing and integration testing so that you get a broad and clear perspective of the two. Remember to read this article until the end as we reveal the solution for you, from the best software testing services!

What is System Testing?

System testing is the process of testing a system or software application to determine if it meets the defined requirements or not. It is a form of unit testing that focuses on trying a single piece of code, a single unit.  

System testing is used to check whether the code's functionality is working as expected, whether the code is behaving as it should, or to find bugs or loopholes. 

System testing is one of the most critical forms of testing, as it helps determine the quality of the code, which will ultimately help improve the quality of the software. 

System testing is performed when the developers want to ensure that the code they have written functions as intended. It is performed after the unit tests have been executed, and the final checks by each module are tested by the integration testing method. 

What is Integration Testing? 

Combining into an integral whole is referred to as "integration." Integration testing of a build indicates that various testing components of a system are combined into one. 

The goal is to determine whether the interaction between these combined units runs smoothly. Testers can identify errors between joined teams by performing an integration test. 

The software's modules are tested as a group, and the connections and interfaces between the various parts are also examined. The activities at the project level must be coordinated to integrate the constituent parts one at a time. 

Differences Between System Testing Vs. Integration Testing 

The following characteristics set the two apart: 

1. During system testing, the entire system is examined. Testers examine the interfaces between the connected components during integration testing. 
2. System Testing is only done after the Integration module has been completed. On the other hand, integration testing is only performed after unit tests have been finished, which means that each component has been tested separately. 
3. System testing performs functional tests and non-functional tests, such as usability, scalability, and other factors. However, integration testing is typically restricted to the integrated components' operational aspects in the opposite situation. 
4. Black-box testing techniques are the only ones used because the testing is restricted to evaluating functional requirements. Contrarily, integration testing involves both black-box and white-box testing methods because the interfacing logic is necessary to carry out this testing. 

Types of System Testing 

1. Functional testing
2. Performance testing
3. Usability testing
4. Scalability testing
5. Reliability testing
6. Security testing
7. Installation testing

Types of Integration Testing Methods 

1. Top-down 
2. Bottom-up 
3. Big-bang (Most Common) 
4. Hybrid testing

Similarities Between System Testing & Integration Testing 

When it comes to understanding System testing Vs. Integration testing, it is very vital to understand that both are also quite similar in many aspects. Take note of the following details: 

1. Methodology/Procedure 

Both software system testing and integration testing are performed to determine the quality of a software system or application. The only difference between the two is that the entire system is examined during system testing, while during integration testing, the interfaces between the connected components are inspected. 

The development and QA teams consistently maintain effective communication, and the customer's input is highly valued.

2. Standard Tests 

Black Box testing is carried out by both the testing techniques. They differ only in Grey/White box testing. 

3. Other Sections of Tests 

Functional testing is standard in both testing formats. 

4. Participation in Quality Assurance (QA) 

Quality Assurance testers take part in both tests. 

5. Same Base Environment 

System and integration test environments are close to the actual operating circumstances of the product. 

Pros of System Testing and Integration Testing 

Now that the differences and similarities between the two testing formats have been outlined let's examine their pros and cons. Here's a list of major pros and cons of System Testing and Integration Testing: 

1. System Testing 

• It includes end-to-end software testing in its entirety. 
• System testing includes testing both the system software architecture and the business requirements. 
• Appropriate system testing helps to eliminate problems and bugs after production goes live. 
• System testing is conducted in a setting similar to a production condition, or occasionally it is completed in a similar production condition where the same data input is fed to the old and new frameworks to compare the differences in functionalities added and removed.  
• This helps the client better understand the new framework and feel great about the addition of new functionalities or the revision or removal of existing functionalities.

Also Read: Ways To Find Bugs Effectively In Website

2. Integration Testing 

• It assists in locating module integration problems. 
• Before beginning the entire application testing, it helps to ensure that the integrated modules function correctly. 
• Compared to bugs discovered during system and acceptance testing, those found at this level are simpler to fix. 
• It raises the reliability level and increases test coverage. 

Cons of System Testing and Integration Testing  

1. System Testing 

• It takes a long time because the entire framework needs to be tested. 
• Depending on the business requirements and application architecture, the cost might increase. This is where the system testing method falls off in the battle of System Testing Vs. Integration Testing.

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2. Integration Testing 

• It is much more challenging than system testing, where the application can be viewed as a "black box." 
• Time-consuming - Testing every interface between the various connected modules takes time and resources. 
• Additional work necessitates the development of stubs and drivers, which, if done incorrectly, can lead to insufficient testing. 

Best Software Testing Solution in the MARKET! 

As promised earlier in the article, we will now reveal the best-in-class provider of software testing solutions for businesses of all sizes. Yes, you heard it right. It is none other than Appsierra! 

Be it System Testing Vs. Integration Testing or any other type of testing, AppSierra is the provider of dedicated software testing services that help software development teams to test, analyze, and improve their applications. Appsierra's testing services include software testing services, deep-dive testing, and software testing automation. 

Appsierra's software testing services are the fastest growing software testing company in the U.S. with over 15+ years of industry experience, 470+ projects tested, and over 1015 test automation suites. With Appsierra, you can potentially reduce the risk of cyber attacks by protecting them against malware, viruses, and phishing attacks. 

Appsierra's best-of-breed products are feature-rich and built on the latest technologies, making them ideally suited for any testing need. To know more, Visit Appsierra today and experience the power of software testing!

Also Read: Integration Testing In Software Development Lifecycle