Compatibility Testing
Compatibility Testing is the process of verifying that a software application works correctly across different environments, such as browsers, operating systems, devices, screen resolutions, and configurations.
Compatibility testing answers: “Does the application behave consistently in different environments?”
1. Definition
Compatibility Testing is the process of verifying that a software application works correctly across different environments, such as browsers, operating systems, devices, screen resolutions, and configurations.
Compatibility testing answers: “Does the application behave consistently in different environments?”
2. Purpose of Compatibility Testing
- Ensure consistent user experience across platforms
- Identify environment-specific defects
- Reduce customer complaints due to environment issues
- Validate broader user reach
3. Types of Compatibility Testing (Manual Focus)
3.1 Browser Compatibility Testing
- Chrome, Firefox, Edge, Safari
- UI rendering consistency
- JavaScript and CSS behavior
3.2 Operating System Compatibility Testing
- Windows, macOS, Linux
- OS-specific behavior and permissions
3.3 Device Compatibility Testing
- Desktop, tablet, mobile
- Different screen sizes and resolutions
3.4 Resolution Compatibility Testing
- Different screen resolutions
- Responsive layout behavior
- Text and image alignment
3.5 Network Compatibility Testing
- Different network speeds
- Wi-Fi vs mobile data
- Offline/poor network handling
4. Manual Tester’s Role
- Identify target environments
- Execute key scenarios across environments
- Validate UI, functionality, and performance perception
- Report environment-specific issues
5. Compatibility Testing Scope
Includes:
- Layout and alignment
- Font and color consistency
- Navigation behavior
- File downloads/uploads
- Error handling differences
6. Compatibility Testing vs Cross-Browser Testing
| Aspect | Compatibility Testing | Cross-Browser Testing |
|---|---|---|
| Scope | Multiple environments | Browsers only |
| Focus | Overall behavior | Browser behavior |
| Coverage | Wide | Narrow |
7. Real-Time Example
An application works fine on Chrome but:
- Button overlaps text on Safari
- Dropdown doesn’t open on Firefox
Compatibility testing detects these issues.
8. Entry & Exit Criteria
Entry Criteria
- Stable build available
- Supported environments defined
Exit Criteria
- Critical environment issues resolved
- Known limitations documented
9. Common Compatibility Defects
- UI distortion
- Broken functionality on specific browsers
- Font rendering issues
- Device-specific crashes
10. Common Mistakes
- Testing only on one browser
- Ignoring resolution differences
- Assuming “works on my machine”
11. Interview-Ready Answers
Short answer:
Compatibility testing ensures that a software application works correctly across different browsers, devices, operating systems, and environments.
Detailed answer:
Compatibility testing validates consistent behavior and user experience of an application across multiple environments to ensure broad usability.
12. Key Takeaway
Compatibility Testing ensures all users get a consistent and reliable experience, regardless of their environment.