What is the primary purpose of the test execution phase in software testing?

The primary purpose of the test execution phase in software testing is to run test cases to validate software requirements. This phase involves executing the prepared test cases against the software application to confirm that it behaves as expected according to the specified requirements. During this phase, testers identify defects, verify that the software meets the intended functionality, and ensure that it fulfills the needs of the users.

Executing test cases is crucial because it allows testers to interact with the software directly, observing how it responds to various inputs under different conditions. The results gathered during this phase provide valuable insights into the quality of the software and help determine whether it is ready for release. Successful validation during test execution indicates that the software meets the specified requirements, fostering confidence in its performance and reliability.