Systemtest

System testing is a level of software testing in which a complete, integrated software product is tested to evaluate its compliance with specified requirements. The primary objective is to validate end-to-end system behavior and to ensure that the product as a whole functions correctly in an environment that resembles production. This level of testing focuses on the system's observable behavior and its compliance with both functional and non-functional requirements.

Tests at this level are typically conducted by dedicated testers who are independent of the development team. The test scope includes the entire software system, its interactions with hardware, operating systems, networks, databases, and external interfaces. A representative system test environment is prepared to mimic production as closely as possible, and data sets are created or masked to reflect real usage.

System testing encompasses multiple test types, including functional testing to verify features against requirements, and non-functional testing such as performance, reliability, security, compatibility, and usability testing. Both manual testing and automated testing are used, often in combination, with test cases derived from requirements, use cases, and design documents.

Key activities include planning, designing and executing test cases, reporting and tracking defects, and performing regression testing. Entry and exit criteria, test coverage, and traceability to requirements guide progress. System testing is typically followed by user acceptance testing before release, and it may be supported by standards and guidelines for quality assurance and risk management.