Q: What is alpha testing?
A: Alpha testing is final testing before the software is released to the general public. First, (and this is called the first phase of alpha testing), the software is tested by in-house developers. They use either debugger software, or hardware-assisted debuggers. The goal is to catch bugs quickly.
Then, (and this is called second stage of alpha testing), the software is handed over to software QA staff for additional testing in an environment that is similar to the intended use.
Q: What is beta testing?
A: Following alpha testing, "beta versions" of the software are released to a group of people, and limited public tests are performed, so that further testing can ensure the product has few bugs.
Other times, beta versions are made available to the general public, in order to receive as much feedback as possible. The goal is to benefit the maximum number of future users.
Q: What is the difference between alpha and beta testing?
A: Alpha testing is performed by in-house developers and software QA personnel. Beta testing is performed by the public, a few select prospective customers, or the general public.
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