What does 'regression testing' aim to accomplish?

Regression testing is a critical process within software development aimed at ensuring that recent changes—such as enhancements, bug fixes, or other modifications—do not disrupt existing functionality. When developers make updates to software, it is essential to verify that the core features still perform as expected. Regression testing involves re-running previously completed tests to confirm that the previously working areas of the code remain functional after alterations have been made.

This type of testing helps identify any unintended side effects that might result from the updates, thereby maintaining software reliability and quality. By targeting the functionality that has been altered along with areas that are closely related, regression testing plays a vital role in the overall software development lifecycle. This process ultimately enhances user satisfaction by ensuring a seamless experience even after updates.