Which kind of test assesses how a program performs under extreme conditions?

A load or stress test is specifically designed to evaluate how a program behaves under extreme conditions, such as high traffic or resource consumption. This type of testing is crucial for identifying potential bottlenecks, detecting how the system handles increased loads, and determining the point at which a program fails or experiences significant performance degradation. The goal is to ensure that the software can maintain functionality and performance even when subjected to maximum capacity.

Functionality tests focus on verifying that the software operates according to specified requirements, checking if each feature works correctly in typical scenarios, but they don't evaluate performance under duress. Usability tests are concerned with the user experience, assessing how easy and intuitive the program is for end-users rather than how it manages stress. Security tests aim to identify vulnerabilities within the software that could be exploited by malicious users, which is a different area of concern than performance. Thus, a load or stress test is the most appropriate choice when evaluating a program’s performance in extreme conditions.