What is the main objective of white-box testing in software development?

The main objective of white-box testing is to utilize internal knowledge of the software, which includes its code structure, design, and algorithms, in order to guide the selection of test data. This type of testing enables testers to create tests based on the actual implementation of the software, ensuring that all code paths are exercised and that the internal workings are thoroughly evaluated. By having insight into how the software operates, testers can identify potential vulnerabilities, logic errors, and areas that may require optimization.

White-box testing contrasts with black-box testing, where the tester has no knowledge of the internal code and focuses solely on the functionality from an external perspective. This makes white-box testing particularly effective for catching issues that may not be apparent through user interface evaluations or performance testing under load, which are objectives of other testing methodologies. Furthermore, while automation can be a part of testing strategies, it is not the primary goal of white-box testing, which is more about understanding and evaluating the software's internal processes.