As its name suggests, database testing ensures databases’ security, performance, and functionality. In a world where everything relies on data and big data, it’s imperative to rely on well-performing databases. But how does it work, and can anyone make a career out of it?

This post reviews the importance of database testing, along with some of the most popular database testing interview questions. Software and tech job interviews are famous for being hard, but preparing yourself for the toughest questions can be a game-changer. That said, let’s dive in.

What is Database Testing?

First thing is first – What is database testing? Mainly, it involves creating SQL queries to validate the database operations and structures. The process includes anything from validating the schema to testing CRUD operations. At the end of the day, the goal is to ensure the database functions and all the data is reliable.

To become a database tester, one needs to understand the structure of a database. For example, a tester might test the application UI to determine whether it returns the correct data after the operation. But how can you do that if you don’t grasp the fundamental concepts? That is where platforms like us at Test Pro come in handy, as they provide their students with online courses and bootcamps.

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Database Testing Tools

There are different types of testing when it comes to databases:

• Functional testing. Does the database retrieve, insert, and delete data? Can it perform its most basic functions?
• Performance testing. What is the response time and scalability of the database? Does it run smoothly? If the database takes too long to answer a query, you may want to check it.
• Security testing. Is the security reliable? For example, SQL injection is a vulnerability where a hacker inserts malicious SQL inputs to gain access to all the data. Ensuring top security prevents these crises.
• Regression testing. Does the database work after implementing changes on it?

Okay, but how do you actually create and run a test? As with other tech fields like quality assurance, these tests can be manual or automated. That means you can either run queries manually to validate assumptions (manual) or test the application UI (automated). Automating tests is more efficient and gets the job done quicker, and being proficient at it can give you an advantage over other testers.

SQL Test

SQL test is one of the most popular ways to test databases. This tool allows anyone to write unit tests for SQL server databases. Unit testing focuses on verifying individual components of particular software applications (the smallest testable parts of a program, such as functions). It answers questions like: Do these small parts function correctly, execute fast, are automated and scalable, etcetera?

Other popular database testing tools include:

• SQLUnit: An open-source framework for database testing. It allows testers to execute SQL queries and validate the resulting data.
• DbUnit: A Java library that allows testing databases for Java applications. The tool allows anyone to execute tests and compare the outcomes with the expected results.
• JUnit: Another testing framework for Java applications.

Database Testing Interview Questions

Now, what are some of the most popular database testing interview questions? What must you be familiar with before entering a job interview room? Well, here are some key concepts a database tester must master:

• What is the difference between unit testing and integration testing?
• How does one verify the integrity of data in the database?
• What is SQL injection? How can you prevent it?
• What do you do when an environment has a large dataset?
• How do you test data encryption and decryption?
• What are your favorite methodologies and tools for database testing? Why?
• How do you validate data extraction, transformation, and loading?

And more. Of course, one can never guess the questions of an interview. But the more you prepare for these inconveniences, the higher your chances of nailing the interview. If you want to build a career in tech and software testing, make sure to check Test Pro’s courses.

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FAQ

What is database testing?

Database testing involves creating SQL queries to validate the database operations and structures. Mainly, it’s about ensuring the database returns the correct data, runs smoothly, and is secure.

What is SQL test?

SQL Test is a tool with pre-written SQL tests to make testing easier. It helps individuals write and run unit tests for SQL server databases.

How to test a database?

One can test databases either manually or automatically. The latter saves time and resources for the company, and thus aspiring testers must become proficient at automating tests that run efficiently. The market is flooded with options to make the job easier, like SQL Test.

What is unit testing?

As the name suggests, this software testing focuses on verifying individual components of particular software applications (the smallest testable parts of a program, such as functions).