16 July 2024 Leave a comment QA
Testing legacy software can be a challenging task, especially when dealing with outdated browsers like Internet Explorer 5 (IE5). In this article, we will explore various methods to automate tests for IE5, considering the constraints and potential solutions.
Understanding the Challenge
One of our customers still uses Internet Explorer 11 in compatibility mode to emulate IE5. However, compatibility mode does not always replicate the behavior of IE5 accurately. This necessitates finding a way to test directly in IE5. Given the age of IE5, modern automation tools like Selenium do not support it, making the task even more complex.
Possible Solutions
Using Virtual Environments
One practical approach is to use a virtual environment with IE5 installed. This method allows you to create a controlled environment that replicates the customer’s setup. Here are some steps to achieve this:
- Set up a virtual machine with an operating system that supports IE5 (e.g., Windows XP).
- Install IE5 on the virtual machine.
- Search for automation solutions that can operate within the virtual environment. Note that most modern tools may not support such an old setup, so you might need to look into older, possibly open-source, automation tools.
For more details on setting up virtual test devices, refer to our documentation.
Emulating User Actions
Given the limitations of automation tools, you can emulate user actions by sending serial mouse data and keyboard interrupts to the virtual machine. This method involves scripting actions like launching IE5, navigating to a URL, and taking screenshots to verify the output. Here’s a basic outline:
- Start the virtual machine and wait for it to boot up.
- Simulate mouse clicks and keyboard inputs to navigate through IE5.
- Capture screenshots at various stages to verify the results.
This approach requires precise timing and scripting but can provide a repeatable and automated way to test in IE5.
Alternative Method: Using Linux Virtual Machines
Another viable solution is to use a Linux virtual machine with a tool like PlayOnLinux to run IE5. This method offers a safer and more portable solution as it isolates the ancient IE5 from your primary operating system:
- Set up a virtual machine with a lightweight Linux distribution like Lubuntu.
- Install PlayOnLinux, which supports legacy versions of Internet Explorer.
- Run IE5 within this environment and perform your tests.
Although this method requires initial setup, it provides a robust and secure environment for testing.
Conclusion
Testing in Internet Explorer 5 can be challenging, but with the right approach, it is possible to automate the process. Whether you use virtual environments, emulate user actions, or leverage Linux virtual machines, each method has its own set of advantages and limitations.
For those looking for a more modern and efficient solution to automate tests for mobile applications, consider using Repeato. Repeato is a no-code test automation tool for iOS and Android that simplifies the process of creating, running, and maintaining automated tests. It uses computer vision and AI to provide a fast and reliable testing experience, making it an excellent choice for ensuring quality in your applications.
