What does interface testing specifically validate?

Interface testing specifically validates the performance of software modules against their interface specifications. This form of testing is crucial because it ensures that different software components can communicate and interact as expected. Interfaces are points of interaction between different modules or systems, and they define how these components will work together.

By focusing on the interface specifications, this testing checks that data is being exchanged correctly, the expected formats are in use, and the interactions remain consistent with defined standards. This is essential for maintaining system reliability, especially in complex environments where multiple components or systems must work together seamlessly.

Interface testing helps in identifying issues such as incorrect data formats or failures in communication protocols, which can lead to broader system faults if not addressed. Effectively validating these interactions ensures that the integrated system will function as intended when different modules come together. Hence, this testing is a vital step in the software development lifecycle, aiming to ensure that all parts of the system communicate properly before deployment.