What is the purpose of performance testing in QA?

The purpose of performance testing in Quality Assurance is focused on evaluating how a system behaves and performs under various conditions, particularly concerning speed, responsiveness, and stability when subjected to significant workloads. This type of testing is crucial for identifying any potential bottlenecks or issues in the system that could affect user experience, especially during peak usage times.

Performance testing encompasses various aspects such as load testing, stress testing, and endurance testing. Each of these tests aims to ascertain that the application can handle expected and unexpected user load, maintain optimal performance speeds, and sustain reliability over extended periods. By conducting performance testing, QA teams can ensure that the application not only meets functional requirements but also delivers a smooth and efficient experience for users, which is vital for overall user satisfaction and business success.