With software 'eating the world', testing software companies have taken on an increased role with those companies that have software development organizations. And these days, almost all companies have a software development organization.
Testing software companies are not all the same. Some provide software test services as you may expect. But what kinds of criteria separate the different testing software companies. Of course you may think cost is a primary consideration, but let's examine each of the elements of differentiation.
Cost: This is the most predominant reason that companies decide to use testing software companies. In doing so, the term 'outsourcing' or 'off-shoring' has become popular. However, just as when you use an overseas manufacturer to make furniture, the cost differential is decreasing in using offshore testing software companies. Additionally, the shipping and logistics, or communications and processes in working with an overseas company can sometimes be cumbersome.
Communication: That brings us to the next factor which is often overlooked. Many testing software companies, especially those that are off shore, may say that they speak English. However, speaking English and really communicating and connecting with meaning are two different things. They may actually be trained to talk about the Dallas Cowboys as part of their training program. They may say 'yes' when they actually mean 'no'. They may say nothing or delay when the answer is no. Or in person, they may shake their heads left and right, when they mean yes. They may also hide problems or potential delays and tell you at the last minute. So beware, fluent English does not equal good communication.
Expertise: Look at what they've done, and who they've done it for. Testing software companies test all kinds of software. So, different types and depth of expertise can differentiate them quickly. Many may boast that they've worked for some big American companies such as Microsoft, or famous, yet smaller companies like Skype. Yet does this mean anything about their expertise? Sometimes working for a larger company could mean they are used to having a lot of direction, or it could mean they are doing only a small part of the testing. If they are working for Oracle, are they testing Oracle financial applications or are they testing the website? Working for smaller companies on the other hand sometimes means they can be good at working with little direction as smaller companies rarely have someone that can pay close attention and give specific orders. Additionally, how broad and deep are their skills in the various testing disciplines?
Testing or QA: This is a big one. Testing software companies test software, of course. But do they do more than that? Can they really think beyond the current build and writing test cases to actually work with you as a partner to increase the quality of your software? Can they give you guidance on your QA processes and how you can work with development more efficiently? Do they have knowledge in your business so that they can examine business rules and requirements and translate them into tests and use cases? Or do they need you to do all that for them before they get started?
As you can see, testing software companies are not all alike. If you want help one time, it probably doesn't matter. Just get one to help you run some of your test cases. If you want a company that will take your software quality to the next level, you need to look much harder.
For more information about testing software companies please visit our website http://www.xbosoft.com/
Showing posts with label Software. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Software. Show all posts
How Can You Protect Your Android From Malicious Software
As android devices continue being targeted by hackers and cybercriminals, it is clear that users need to understand the ways in which they can protect their devices from the intruders. Some of the most dangerous malware attacks on androids are fake banking apps, android Geinimi and DroidDream. The fake banking apps lure customers to enter their login information and this compromises their bank accounts.
Similarly, android Geinimi malware corrupts android games download sites and users downloading these games end up infecting their devices. Android fake player manifest as a media player and silently sends SMS to premium phone numbers. Bank accounts, confidential business information and personal details can be stolen by these malware thus causing financial loss and reputation damage.
Apparently, smartphone users are not very keen on malware vulnerabilities of their devices and this means that they are not taking strong measures to curb the problem. There are different ways in which android malware invasions can be prevented. One way in which the malicious software programs and codes are spread is through downloads. The most targeted are games download sites.
It is advisable that users not download apps from unauthorized or illegal apps stores. It is essential that you read and understand apps permissions before you download them. Users need to pay attention to apps they install in their devices. Hackers and phishers use popular apps to spread malware to your android devices. You may think that you are downloading the real legitimate apps but in the real sense, you are infecting your smartphone.
If you see free apps that are mainly found in paid versions, you need to watch out. These spammers will lure you because they know that you will not let go a free app that is initially in paid version. Another way in which you can protect your smartphone device is by using passwords. You also need to make sure that you change your passwords often and not use one password throughout.
Smartphones are mainly targeted because users do not update their operating systems when new versions are released. This is one challenge users have faced. In addition, some carriers and manufacturers of android devices are releasing older OS platforms in the market, giving hackers an opportunity to invade the devices. Users should make sure that they get the latest secure versions of operating systems immediately they are released in the market.
Moreover, users should refrain from sharing their confidential or personal information in public internet connections like Wi-Fi. Installing antivirus and anti-malware programs that are sourced from reputable companies is another way in which users can protect their devices from attackers. Such anti-malware apps help detect and remove malware from your smartphone.
The anti-malware programs should also be updated regularly to make sure that they are able to detect and remove newer versions of malicious codes. In a nutshell, android users should get more information about their device vulnerabilities and how they can keep off from the attackers. This will ensure that they do not infect their androids with malicious software that could steal their confidential information
My Antivirus and Security Software Won't Get Rid of the Redirect Virus
"My Antivirus and Security software won't get rid of the Browser Redirect Virus!"
This is a statement we have all read time and time again in countless comments and on support forums. You have spent good money on software to protect your computer from malware and viruses yet you still fall victim to the redirect virus. What Gives?
It's not your fault!
Unfortunately the redirect virus was designed to evade the very security measures you were probably advised to take. The hijack virus is a very advanced mini application whose attacks are multi-tiered. It is activated with no help from other applications. It then makes its changes to your computers Windows settings and register files and then disguises itself as a file that should be present on your computer. Not only does it disguise itself, it hides where your anti-virus program won't even look. The only way to be 100% sure you have removed the browser redirect virus is to use a program specifically designed to deal with it.
Often times the hijack virus will send you to websites where malware exists. You will then have spyware or other hideous malware installed on your computer. Your antivirus software may detect this malicious code and remove it. Unfortunately the root redirect virus still remains hidden and undetected on your computer. In a matter of time the browser virus will become active again and start the process of redirecting you to unwanted ad sites and malicious code sites all over again. The permanent removal of this virus must be obtained to stop this cycle. This is only obtained through a multi pronged approach.
Fortunately for us there is a program available to remove this menacing virus permanently. This solution was designed by a veteran computer technician whose computer was infected with the browser virus. He has created a program with a multi prong approach to removing the virus. This is the only way to be sure you have permanently removed this browser hijacker. His program not only permanently removes the Google redirect virus, it guarantees it 100%,or your money back. You won't get that guarantee or any guarantee from one of these internet "Gurus" claiming to have all the answers.
Take it from a guy who tried to save money and followed a few of these unqualified "Gurus" down a deadend street. I saved neither time nor money. I ended up right where I stared minus a lot of personal time and a great deal of hair.
For more information about the Browser Redirect Virus and how to remove it permanently, go to my website http://redirectvirus.co/ (A Cautionary tale of how I removed the redirect virus permanently). Please learn from my mistakes and be done with this virus once and for all.
Best of luck, Bill
The Benefits Of Antivirus Software
There is no doubt that the internet has revolutionised our lives, to the extent that it is often difficult to imagine how we would get by, either a social context or in a business environment, without access to the internet. All of which makes it so much more irritating when our access to the web is adversely affected by a virus which disrupts the operation of our computer, either temporarily or on a more long-term basis.
So what can you do to protect yourself from these kinds of malicious attacks? The simplest solution is to ensure that the device on which you access the internet - be it a PC, Mac or tablet - is protected by antivirus software.
When it comes to choosing antivirus software there is no shortage of choices out there. Each has its own pros and cons and the one you opt for will be determined to a certain extent by personal preference.
These programmes all operate in a similar way. The programme scans the files on your PC or other device, searching for any patterns or other identifiable trends which might be suggestive of a viral infection. To an extent what any antivirus programme is looking for is determined by data which has been extrapolated from viruses which have been previously successfully discovered, which means that it is important to ensure that if go to the bother of running an antivirus programme you have it regularly updated, the better to combat any new, previously unseen or updated viral infections.
Antivirus software is capable of running a scan on your computer automatically so that you do not require to intervene in the operation of the programme. You simply pay for the software, download it and it will carry out the necessary checks to ensure (relatively) worry-free operation of your PC or Mac.
In the event the software programme detects a virus which is attempting to attack your computer it should act to block the attack and then report the details to you automatically. Alternatively, some programmes will inform you that it has detected what it considers to be a virus or other malicious attempt to attack your computer and ask you whether you wish to clear this from your device.
So, if you are considering purchasing an antivirus programme to protect your computer which one should you choose? When all is said and done all antivirus programmes operate in basically the same way. If you are not sure which one to go for you can find lots of data and comparisons of different programmes online. Alternatively, you may be influenced by the experience of friends or business associates or indeed by budget. The important thing to bear in mind is that installing any antivirus software will provide you with some degree of protection, so that in itself is a good thing. Be aware, however, that all these programmes have their limitations and the fact that you have installed this type of software on your PC or other device does not mean that you should not continue to be on your guard against any suspicious activity you may come across while browsing.
There are a number of reputable and effective antivirus solutions on the market including Norton 360 antivirus from Norton Internet security
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