White box testing, also known as clear box, transparent box, open box or glass box testing, is a method of testing the inner workings of an application, and searching for vulnerabilities. It informs the user about the source code, algorithms and overall structure of an application, and is able to spot potential security loopholes.
By using white box testing, the user can learn about the intricacies of their software at code level, therefore equipping their organization with the specific knowledge to effectively defend itself against breaches of security. White box testing acts as a shield against potential vulnerabilities, and is able to detect problems that gray and black box tests can’t.
When can white box testing be applied?
There are three parts of the software testing process during which white-box testing can be effective and useful. While most commonly used and known for specific unit testing, white box testing is now used for integration and system testing too.
- Unit testing: Testing specific individual sections of source code, to check whether they are functioning properly
- Integration testing (I&T): Testing one whole software module, or multiple software modules together in a group, in order to assess whether the system complies with specific requirements
- System testing: Testing a complete system, to check whether it is functioning in the way it is needed
How do you use white box testing?
The person using the white box tests is responsible for creating test scenarios to properly examine the specific code paths and logic flows, to ensure they are operating smoothly. Although white box testing is fairly simple to operate, it is important for the user to have detailed knowledge of the application being tested. This way, they will know what test scenarios to create to get the most useful results.
Steps needed to create a test:
- Preparation and Input: Inputting specific requirements, functional and security specifications, design documents and source code, all particular to the application being tested
- Processing: Ensuring a full risk assessment is conducted before the testing process
- Planning: As well as a risk assessment, there should be a detailed test plan to cover the entire code. The tests should be executed until all detected errors have been eliminated from the software
- Output: Recording and preparing a final report which details the preparations and results of the test
What are the techniques for white box testing?
There are six main techniques which are most commonly used for white box testing. These are:
- Statement coverage
Checks to see if every line of code, or node, in the case of a flowchart, is executed at least once during the course of testing. Helps find potential issues in the code by ensuring all lines are tested with a minimum of two test cases.
- Branch coverage
Test cases designed to ensure each possible branch (decision point) in the code is taken at least once. In a flowchart, this means traversing all edges at least once each.
- Condition coverage
Focuses on covering all individual conditions within the code. For example, if there’s an IF statement (a selection statement that allows for more than one possible flow of control) with multiple conditions, test cases are designed to cover each condition separately at least once.
- Multiple condition coverage
Tests all possible combinations of the multiple conditions’ outcomes at least once each. Ensures that every possible combination within an IF statement is tested.
- Basis path testing
Creates a control flow graph from the code or flowchart, and calculates its Cyclomatic complexity. It helps identify independent paths through the code and designs minimal test cases for each path. Test cases are created for each unique path identified in the flow.
- Loop testing
Focuses on thoroughly testing loops, which are common in code. For simple loops, different test cases are designed to test scenarios like skipping the loop, simple pass and multiple passes. Nested loops are tested starting from the innermost loop and moving outward. Concatenated loops, which are independent loops one after another; however, if the loops are not independent, they are tested like nesting loops.
What are the benefits of white box testing?
1. Proactive Vulnerability Mitigation
White box testing goes beyond identifying vulnerabilities; it facilitates proactive mitigation. By understanding the intricacies of your code, white box testing can provide actionable insights to strengthen your application's security.
2. Regulatory Compliance Assurance
Advanced white box testing ensures that your applications adhere to industry standards, mitigating legal and financial risks. It allows for continuous editing and improvement of digital infrastructures.
3. Easy to Use
White box tests are user-friendly and easy to automate.
What is the difference between black box, grey box and white box testing?
Verified Visitors stands as your trusted partner in fortifying your digital assets through advanced white box testing. By leveraging cutting-edge techniques, we empower your organization to stay one step ahead of cyber threats. Elevate your cybersecurity strategy with our comprehensive approach, ensuring the resilience of your applications in an ever-evolving digital landscape.
