Blockchain Testing
Continuing with our series of articles on the different types of software testing, we today focus upon Blockchain testing. The dictionary definition of ‘blockchain’ describes it as a system of computers interlinked via a peer-to-peer network that is used to store transactional data from cryptocurrency.
What is it?
We have covered the definition of blockchain but what is blockchain testing? It is a testing methodology which is used to determine whether or not the components within the blockchain plus related applications are working correctly.
Top Tip: What are some of the best practices?
Blockchain testers should incorporate approaches including API, functional, performance testing and Shift Left – more below.
Bonus tip: Some important open source tools to use include the Ethereum tester library and Hyperledger Composer. The first is easy to set up and available on GitHub repo, whilst the second allows users to perform interactive, automated unit and system testing.
What are the different types?
Typically, there are three types of blockchain: consortium, public and private. The first describes a completely decentralised system in which a number of organisations have authority over the network. Public blockchain is another decentralised system in which everybody has access, whilst private blockchain is partially decentralised and offers access to single organisations.
Blockchain testing approaches
API (application programming interface) – Testers need to ensure that API requests and responses into the blockchain ecosystem are dealt with correctly, validating this interaction.
Functional – Last month we looked at functional testing and discovered that it is deployed to corroborate whether or not functional user specifications and requirements are in place and working correctly. A vital testing method in general, it is used in blockchain to evaluate the various components within the overall framework by looking at specific business processes, user scenarios and behaviours. Key components usually tested include block size, new blocks added, chain size and data transmission:
Performance – A couple of weeks ago we looked at performance testing, a type of test used to assess system performance against a predetermined set of benchmarks. In blockchain, this testing process typically looks to see if there are any bottlenecks in the overall performance, whilst also analysing system metrics and identifying whether or not it is ready for roll-out.
Shift Left – This type of testing approach is deployed early on in the software delivery process to locate and prevent issues at the earliest convenience.
Blockchain technology provides a transparent method for maintaining data records and is viewed by many as being a completely democratised system. Offering far more than secure payment applications, its popularity continues to rise and as such, blockchain testing is naturally essential. For more information, contact us today!
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