What is smoke testing?

Smoke testing is a software testing method where you check the basic functionality of a build before doing detailed testing.

Definition:

It is also called “build verification testing” or “build acceptance testing”. 

Purpose:

• To quickly verify that the main features of a software build are working.
• To detect major issues early so detailed testing is not wasted on a broken build. 

When it’s performed:

Immediately after a new build is created in the development cycle, before integration or regression testing. 

Key steps:

1. Select critical test cases covering major functionality.
2. Execute those test cases manually or via automation.
3. If the build passes the smoke tests, proceed with deeper testing; if not, fix major issues first.