What term refers to the process of verifying that modifications have not adversely affected existing features?

The term that describes the process of verifying that modifications, such as bug fixes or enhancements, have not adversely affected existing features is regression testing. This type of testing is crucial in software development because when new code is introduced, there is always a risk that it might disrupt functionality that was previously working correctly.

Regression testing involves re-running functional and non-functional tests to ensure that existing features operate as intended after changes are made. The goal is to identify any unintended side effects caused by the changes, thus maintaining the integrity of the software product. This practice helps to catch issues early and facilitates the continuing stability of the software throughout its lifecycle.

In contrast, while confirmation testing focuses on checking if specific defects have been fixed, integration testing assesses how well various components of the system work together, and acceptance testing validates the software against its requirements from the user’s perspective. Regression testing specifically zeroes in on the impact of changes on existing functionality, making it the correct term in this context.