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Blockchain Testing

Blockchain Testing

27 January 2023 15 Minutes Read BY Aparna Soneja

Welcome to our blockchain testing technology blog! Here, we will explore the latest developments and trends in blockchain testing, and provide insights and best practices for testing blockchain-based systems.

As the world of blockchain technology continues to evolve and grow, the importance of thorough testing becomes more and more vital. Blockchain testing is a critical step in the development and deployment of blockchain-based systems, as it helps to ensure that the system functions correctly and securely.

In this blog, we will delve into the various types of blockchain testing, such as unit testing, integration testing, end-to-end testing, and Network testing. We will explore the challenges of testing a blockchain network and the different types of network tests that can be performed, such as stress testing and penetration testing. We will also discuss the latest testing tools and frameworks available for blockchain testing, such as Truffle and Ganache, and how they can be used to improve the development process.

We will also share real-world examples and case studies of blockchain testing, to help you better understand the challenges and best practices of testing blockchain-based systems. Our goal is to provide you with a comprehensive understanding of blockchain testing and to help you stay up-to-date with the latest developments in this rapidly-evolving field.

Thank you for joining us on this journey, and we look forward to exploring the world of blockchain testing with you!

 

Table of Contents:

 

What is Blockchain Testing?

Blockchain Testing-what it is

Blockchain Testing= Blockchain + Testing

What is Blockchain?

  • A blockchain is a decentralized, distributed database that keeps a list of documents called blocks that is constantly increasing. A chain of blocks is formed by each block having a timestamp and a link to the one before it.
  • A blockchain’s records are protected using cryptographic methods, making them difficult to alter. As a result, a blockchain can be a helpful tool for recording and preserving data openly and safely as the data cannot be easily changed by anyone, especially by third parties.

Examples of Blockchain:

  1. The blockchain is used to monitor the ownership of the virtual currency, Bitcoin is an example of a blockchain. Users can follow the transfer of Bitcoins from one owner to another since every transaction on the Bitcoin network is recorded on the blockchain.
  2. Ethereum is one more example of a blockchain, which is used to create decentralized apps, and Hyperledger, which is used to create private blockchains for use across several industries, are further instances of blockchains.

How does Blockchain work?

A network of computers is used to record and verify transactions in a shared, distributed ledger that is maintained by a blockchain.
This is how it works:

  1. The network is informed of an initiated transaction.
  2. The transaction is verified and added to a block by the network of computers called nodes.
  3. The block is included in the chain of blocks.
  4. The blockchain now contains the record of the transaction, which is immutable.

The nodes verify the validity of the block and its transactions whenever a new block is added to the chain. This process is called Mining and the nodes are called miners.

Testing:

  • A system or one of its components is evaluated during testing to see whether or not it satisfies the requirements. A system or component’s functionality with the requirements is also verified in testing.
  • As it helps to guarantee that a product is of good quality and suitable for its intended use, testing is a crucial step in the software development process.

Blockchain Testing:

  • Testing a blockchain system’s functionality and performance is known as blockchain testing.
  • This may include evaluating the system’s security, scalability, and dependability as well as its many parts, including nodes, smart contracts, and other features.
  • Blockchain testing is frequently carried out to make sure that a system is suitable for its intended application and can operate as planned in a real-world setting without any defects.
  • Blockchain testing aims to spot any bugs or problems with the system as early as possible, allowing for their resolution.

Why Is Blockchain Testing Needed?

Blockchain Testing-it's need.

The above figure describes how the testing is done at each stage in the retail sector so that the customer receives a defect-free and accurate product.

Similarly, when we use blockchain, all the data at each of the steps is stored in a chain of blocks and is tested to eliminate defects.

 

Benefits of Blockchain Testing:

  • To guarantee the security of the blockchain system: Blockchain systems collect and store sensitive data, thus it’s important to make sure the system is safe, secure and resistant to hacking. Any system flaws or bugs can be found with the use of testing.
  • To confirm that the system is scalable: It’s crucial to confirm that a blockchain system can manage the increased load without suffering performance difficulties as it expands and draws more users.
  • To make sure the system is reliable: Though fault-tolerant by design, blockchain systems must be able to tolerate malfunctions.
  • To ensure that the system meets specified requirements: Testing assists in ensuring that a blockchain system is suitable for its intended purpose and complies with the requirements set out by the developers and users.

 

Phases In Blockchain Testing

Blockchain Testing phases

  1. Initiation: Planning the testing process during this phase includes determining the testing’s scope, and choosing the appropriate tools and resources.
  2. Design of the test: During this stage, the test strategy and test cases are created. This could involve deciding whether testing methodologies, such as system, integration, or unit testing, would be used.
  3. Execution/Testing: The test cases are carried out in this stage, and the outcomes are noted. Any discovered flaws or problems are recorded and followed up on for resolution.

Levels of Testing 

  • Unit Testing: Testing individual units or parts of the blockchain code to make sure they are functioning properly is known as unit testing.
  • Integration Testing: Testing the flow/communication between various units or components of the blockchain code is known as integration testing.
  • System testing: This involves checking the functionality of the entire blockchain system.
  • Acceptance testing: This type of testing is done to ensure that the software meets the requirements of customers.
  • Performance Testing: Testing the software’s performance under various workloads to see if it satisfies performance requirements is known as performance testing.
  • Security testing: Testing the software’s security is necessary to make sure it is protected against potential assaults.
  • Usability testing: Testing the usability of the program is one way to make sure it is simple for consumers to use.

Types of Blockchain Testing

Blockchain Testing Types

      1. API Testing: Evaluating blockchain systems that focus on testing the APIs of a blockchain system to make sure they are functioning as expected is known as API testing. It involves testing APIs that are used to interact with blockchain systems, such as APIs for submitting transactions or querying the blockchain for data.
      2. Block Testing: In a blockchain system, block testing includes putting the blocks that make up the blockchain to the test to make sure they function as intended. Testing the blocks’ integrity, data storage capabilities, and structural integrity are all examples of this.
      3. Functional Testing: Functional testing in a blockchain system involves testing the functions of the blockchain to ensure that they are working as expected. This can include testing the core functionality of the blockchain, such as the ability to submit and validate transactions, as well as any additional features or functionality that has been implemented.
      4. Performance Testing: Testing the software’s performance under various workloads to see if it satisfies performance requirements is known as performance testing.
      5. Security testing: Testing the software’s security is necessary to make sure it is protected against potential assaults.
      6. Smart contract testing: A smart contract functions similarly to a computer program that can take action automatically when specific criteria are satisfied.

For instance, when a specific date approaches, a smart contract may be used to automatically transfer money from one person to another.EG: If I have to add $50 to my account whenever the total amount <$ 500, for that we can use a smart contract that can automate our process.

Testing a smart contract is similar to making sure a computer program is functioning properly. We put the smart contract to the test to make sure that it functions as intended and is error-free.

  1. Evaluation: Examining if the system satisfies the requirements and is suitable for its intended purpose, the test results are analyzed and reviewed in this step.
  2. Reporting: During this stage, a report on the testing procedure, including any flaws or problems that were found and their status, must be prepared and sent.
  3. Maintenance: To make sure the system keeps working as intended after the testing process is finished, it may need to be maintained and retested regularly.

 

Tools used for Blockchain testing

Blockchain Testing tools

  1. Ethereum Tester: Smart contracts and decentralized applications can be created using the open-source, decentralized Ethereum blockchain technology (dApps). Solidity, an Ethereum-specific programming language, is used to create and implement smart contracts. Before they are released to the main Ethereum network, developers can test their smart contracts and decentralized applications (dApps) on the Ethereum platform using a tool called an Ethereum tester.

Pros of Ethereum Tester:

  • Before deploying their code, it enables developers to find and correct any issues, which can help them save both time and money.
  • Before going live, it enables developers to test their code in a simulated environment, which can help guarantee that it is functioning as intended.
  • It enables programmers to test their code under many circumstances and scenarios, which can help them better understand how their code will function in practice.

Cons of Ethereum tester:

  • When the code is introduced to the primary Ethereum network, there is a chance that faults or problems may still exist because it might not be able to accurately recreate all of the network’s circumstances.
  • It could take more time and work to set up and use, which might be difficult for developers who are working under tight deadlines.

Go through Ethereum tester here —> GitHub

 

  1. Ganache: Developers can test their dApps and smart contracts using Ganache, a local blockchain testing tool, on their private blockchain.

Pros of Ganache: 

  • The fact that it is a local tool implies that developers can use it without a network connection.
  • It is a wonderful solution for developers who are new to blockchain development because it is simple to set up and use.
  • It enables programmers to quickly design and tweak their unique blockchain for testing needs.
  • Developers may see and manage their blockchain using the user-friendly interface it contains, including the ability to view and undo transactions.

Cons of Ganache:

  • Since it is a local tool, it might not be able to accurately reproduce the circumstances of the primary Ethereum network. When the code is released to the primary network, there is a chance that flaws or bugs will still exist.
  • Given that it is intended for testing on a private blockchain as opposed to a network of interconnected nodes, it might not be appropriate for testing more sophisticated or large-scale dApps or smart contracts.

Try out Ganache—>Ganache

 

  1. Corda: Open-source blockchain platform called Corda is made exclusively for the banking industry. It enables the development and deployment of distributed apps (dApps) that automate financial operations and permit the interchange of financial assets by banks, financial institutions, and other organizations.
    When testing their dApps and smart contracts, developers can use a variety of tools and resources provided by Corda. These tools include Corda Tester, a library of testing utilities and frameworks.

Pros of Corda’s testing:

  • Developers can test their dApps on the Corda Testnet.
  • Before they are introduced to the main Corda network, developers can test their dApps and smart contracts on the Corda Testnet in a controlled setting.
  • Developers can make sure their code is operating as intended by writing and running tests for Corda-based projects using the tools and utilities included in Corda Tester.
  • Because Corda’s testing tools were created expressly for the Corda platform, they are excellent for testing Corda-based products.

Cons of Corda’s testing:

  • It’s possible that applications developed on other blockchain platforms won’t be able to be tested using Corda’s testing tools.
  • For developers who are working under pressure, setting up and using Corda’s testing tools may take more time and effort.

Read about Corda testing here —>GitHub

 

  1. Truffle: A well-liked development framework for the Ethereum blockchain is the truffle. Decentralized apps (dApps) and smart contracts can be created, tested, and deployed on the Ethereum platform with the help of a set of tools that are included in it. Truffle Develop, a local development environment that enables programmers to test their dApps and smart contracts on a private blockchain, is one of the primary tools offered by Truffle.

Pros of Truffle:

  • Developers can use Truffle Develop without an internet connection because it is a local development environment.
  • For developers who are new to Ethereum programming, Truffle Develop is a fantastic alternative because it is simple to set up and use.
  • Developers may simply establish and configure their private blockchain using Truffle Develop for testing purposes.
  • Developers may examine and manage their blockchain using the user-friendly interface provided by Truffle Develop, including the ability to view and undo transactions.

Cons of Truffle:

  • Being a local development environment, Truffle Develop might not be able to perfectly reproduce the circumstances of the primary Ethereum network. This indicates that there is a chance for mistakes.
  • When the code is released to the primary network, there is a chance that flaws or bugs will still exist.
  • Since Truffle Develop is intended for testing on a personal blockchain rather than a network of connected nodes, it might not be appropriate for testing more sophisticated or large-scale dApps or smart contracts.

Read more about Truffle Truffle

 

  1. Hyperledger Composer:
    A development framework called Hyperledger Composer is used to create blockchain apps on the Hyperledger platform.
    The Hyperledger Composer Playground, a web-based development environment that enables developers to test their decentralized applications (dApps) and smart contracts on a private blockchain, is one of the primary tools featured in Hyperledger Composer.

Pros of HyperLedger Composer:

  • Developers can access the Hyperledger Composer Playground from any location with an internet connection because it is a web-based development environment.
  • The Hyperledger Composer Playground is a wonderful alternative for developers who are new to Hyperledger development because it is simple to set up and use.
  • Developers can quickly establish and customize their private blockchain for testing purposes using the Hyperledger Composer Playground.
  • Developers can monitor and control their blockchain using the user-friendly interface of the Hyperledger Composer Playground, including the option to view and undo transactions.

Cons of HyperLedger Composer:

  • Being a personal blockchain development environment, the Hyperledger Composer Playground might not be able to perfectly recreate the conditions of the primary Hyperledger network. When the code is released to the primary network, there is a chance that flaws or bugs will still exist.
  • The Hyperledger Composer Playground is intended for testing on a personal blockchain rather than a network of connected nodes, therefore it may not be appropriate for testing more sophisticated or extensive dApps or smart contracts.

Go through HyperLedger Composer here→ GitHub

 

  1.  BitcoinJ: A Java library for interacting with the Bitcoin blockchain is called BitcoinJ. It enables programmers to create tools that can communicate with the Bitcoin network, such as the capacity to send and receive payments and control wallets.Applications created with BitcoinJ can be tested using a variety of tools and resources that are included with the software.

Pros of BitcoinJ:

  • A testing framework that is part of BitcoinJ makes it simple for developers to create and execute tests for their Bitcoin-based projects.
  • A local development environment that is part of BitcoinJ enables programmers to test their apps on a private blockchain without an internet connection.
  • Since BitcoinJ was created particularly for the Bitcoin blockchain, it is a good choice for developing and testing Bitcoin-based apps.

Cons of BitcoinJ:

  • Testing initiatives created on other blockchain systems might not be appropriate for BitcoinJ.
  • Setting up and using BitcoinJ could take more time and effort, which might be difficult for developers that are working under tight deadlines.

For more details on BitcoinJGitHub

 

Challenges in Blockchain Testing

  • Complexity: Blockchain systems require extensive testing since they have numerous interrelated components. This may make it challenging to find and address bugs and other problems.
  • Lack of standardization: There are a variety of blockchain systems, each with particular requirements and characteristics. Creating a testing plan that works on all platforms can be difficult as a result.
  • Performance: Blockchain systems must be able to process a significant amount of transactions and data quickly. It might be difficult to test a blockchain system’s performance because it needs to simulate a lot of traffic and data.
  • Security: Maintaining a blockchain system’s security is crucial since any flaws/bugs could have negative effects. Because it involves a thorough grasp of the underlying technology and how it may be exploited, testing for security vulnerabilities can be challenging.
  • Interoperability: A lot of blockchain solutions are built to work with various platforms and systems. A blockchain system’s interoperability (data exchange) must be tested against a wide range of different systems and platforms, which can be difficult.

 

References

  • https://testvox.com/blog/
  • https://www.javatpoint.com/levels-of-testing.
  • https://www.guru99.com/blockchain-testing.
  • htmlhttps://www.bugraptors.com/blog/blockchain-testing-basics-future-and-tools.
  • https://www.ibm.com/in-en/topics/what-is-blockchain.

Conclusion

Developing and maintaining safe, dependable, and effective blockchain systems requires doing blockchain testing. Due to the complexity, lack of standardization, and particular requirements of blockchain technology, evaluating the performance, dependability, and security of systems and processes based on the blockchain can be difficult.

Retail businesses considering implementing blockchain technology should carefully evaluate their testing requirements and create a thorough testing plan to guarantee that their systems are reliable and offer a positive user experience. Retail businesses may contribute to ensuring the success and long-term durability of their blockchain-based systems and processes by investing in thorough testing.

Aparna Soneja
Aparna Soneja

A Full stack (MERN) developer at Accenture and an open source enthusiast by passion who shares her technical knowledge in the form of tweets, blog posts and YouTube videos.

Aparna Soneja

A Full stack (MERN) developer at Accenture and an open source enthusiast by passion who shares her technical knowledge in the form of tweets, blog posts and YouTube videos.