What is the software lifecycle?

The software lifecycle encompasses the entire duration that a software product exists, starting from its initial conception, through development, deployment, and ongoing use, until it ultimately becomes obsolete. This includes various stages such as requirements gathering, design, coding, testing, release, maintenance, and phase-out.

Understanding the software lifecycle is crucial for Agile testing, as it helps testers appreciate how software evolves over time and the importance of their role in different stages. Recognizing that the lifecycle spans from inception to the point when the software is no longer supported or in use provides a comprehensive view of software management and application in real-world scenarios.

Other options focus on narrower aspects of software or testing, such as the duration of testing phases or specific aspects like product availability, but they do not capture the full scope of what the software lifecycle entails. Thus, option B accurately describes the entire journey of a software product.