What is the main goal of stress testing in computing?

The main goal of stress testing in computing is to push components to their limits and extremes to assess their performance. This testing method is essential for understanding how a system behaves under maximum load, which can help identify performance bottlenecks and areas where a system may fail. By applying upper limits of workload to the components and measuring their behavior, developers and engineers can better understand stability, responsiveness, and overall system integrity under extreme conditions. This allows organizations to prepare for unexpected spikes in demand and ensures reliable performance when the system is under stress.

The focus on extreme conditions is crucial because real-world situations may sometimes exceed expected usage patterns, and stress testing helps to ensure that systems can handle those situations effectively.