Apply QA provides a variety of software testing and quality engineering books for QA Engineers.

These books offer everyone opportunity to learn QA basics to more advanced strategic topics.

QA engineers must continually update their skills and stay abreast of the latest industry trends and methodologies.

You can start with the Software Testing Series: Basics and advance thru the series to more advanced subjects such as Test Strategy and Security Testing. 

With the last book being The QA Advantage which brings everything together.

Book Cover of The QA Advantage

Part of Apply QA’s mission is to provide relevant and applicable software testing and quality engineering information to help educate people on software quality assurance, quality control (testing), and quality engineering.

These books cover a range of topics, from fundamental principles and testing techniques to strategy, security, automation, ai/ml, cloud, agile methodologies, and quality culture.


These are short educational books meant to teach you core quality concepts allowing the reader to enhance their knowledge and bring proven methods back to their organization.


Beginner Level
Software Testing Series: Basics
Identity and Data Protection for the Average Person

Intermediate Level
Software Testing Series: Test Strategy

Advanced Level
Software Testing Series: Security Testing
The QA Advantage


QA Books – Software Testing Books

The QA Advantage

“The QA Advantage” by Michael Pasono is an essential guide for organizations and startups looking to leverage quality assurance (QA) practices to gain a competitive edge. This book offers a comprehensive approach to integrating QA into every stage of software development, ensuring that businesses not only meet but exceed customer expectations.

Michael Pasono, a seasoned expert in quality assurance and software engineering, draws on his extensive experience to provide readers with practical strategies for implementing QA methodologies that drive business success. In a rapidly evolving technological landscape, where the quality of software can make or break a company, “The QA Advantage” serves as a roadmap to building superior products and services.

The book covers key areas such as test strategy, test management, increasing testing maturity (TMMi), and the use of service and database virtualization. Pasono explains how these practices can be used to streamline development processes, reduce costs, and enhance product reliability. He also delves into the integration of DevOps and QA automation, highlighting how automation can drive consistency and efficiency in delivering high-quality software.

A significant portion of the book is dedicated to understanding the impact of quality on revenue. Pasono discusses how mature testing practices and innovative QA techniques can directly influence a company’s bottom line by preventing costly errors and ensuring faster time-to-market.

Additionally, “The QA Advantage” introduces readers to advanced concepts like service-oriented architecture, security testing within pipelines, and the benefits of a relentless feedback loop for continuous improvement. The book emphasizes the importance of fostering a culture of innovation within QA departments, enabling companies to stay ahead of the competition.

Whether you’re a QA professional, software engineer, or business leader, “The QA Advantage” provides the insights and tools needed to harness the power of quality assurance for sustainable growth and success in the digital age.

Software Testing Series – Basics (Revision 2024)

“Software Testing Series – Basics” by Michael Pasono is an essential guide for both new and experienced software testers. As the first installment in a comprehensive series, this book dives into the foundational concepts of software testing, making it an invaluable resource for anyone involved in ensuring software quality.

Michael Pasono, a recognized industry leader and CISSP-certified professional, draws on his extensive experience to deliver practical insights into the world of software testing. With technology advancing at a rapid pace, the demand for quality assurance has never been higher. This book is designed to keep you ahead of the curve, providing clear explanations of key concepts that every software tester must understand.

The book covers a wide range of topics, from basic definitions and testing levels to the intricacies of planning, execution, and logging. Readers will learn about different types of testing—unit, system, integration, and user acceptance testing—and why each is crucial for delivering a bug-free software product. Pasono also introduces important methodologies like functional vs. non-functional testing, white box vs. black box testing, and the latest in testing tools.

One of the book’s strengths lies in its focus on practical application. Pasono emphasizes the importance of preparation and strategy in testing, helping testers understand the requirements, design, and timelines that impact their work. He also provides guidance on debugging, re-testing, and regression testing, offering readers a comprehensive view of the software testing lifecycle.

Whether you’re just starting out or looking to enhance your existing skills, “Software Testing Series – Basics” equips you with the knowledge and best practices needed to excel in your career. With this book, Pasono helps bridge the gap between theory and practice, making it easier to navigate the ever-changing landscape of software testing.

Software Testing Series – Test Strategy

“Software Testing Series – Test Strategy” by Michael Pasono offers a deep dive into the critical aspects of developing a robust test strategy within the software testing discipline. As the second installment in the Software Testing Series, this book is designed for both new and experienced testers who aim to enhance their understanding of strategic testing practices.

Michael Pasono, a respected leader in software quality assurance, brings his extensive expertise to this volume, guiding readers through the complexities of creating effective test strategies. In today’s fast-paced technology landscape, where digital transformations and cybersecurity threats are prevalent, having a well-defined test strategy is essential for delivering high-quality software.

This book explores the foundational concepts of a test strategy, including its purpose, scope, and the importance of aligning it with organizational goals. Pasono breaks down various testing types—functional, non-functional, security, usability, compatibility, and performance testing—explaining how each plays a vital role in a comprehensive test strategy.

Readers will also gain insights into test management, from crafting detailed test cases and ensuring traceability to managing defects and optimizing testing environments. The book emphasizes the significance of communication, outlining best practices for reporting test progress and metrics, which are crucial for stakeholder engagement and decision-making.

Additionally, Pasono addresses the roles and responsibilities within a testing team, offering guidance on establishing a RACI matrix and an escalation process to streamline operations. The book also distinguishes between a test strategy and a test plan, helping readers understand when and how to apply each effectively.

“Software Testing Series – Test Strategy” is an essential resource for software testers seeking to elevate their skills and contribute to their organization’s success. With practical advice, real-world examples, and a clear focus on best practices, this book equips readers with the tools they need to develop and implement a successful test strategy.

Software Testing Series – Security Testing

“Software Testing Series – Security Testing” by Michael Pasono is an indispensable guide for navigating the complexities of security testing in the software development lifecycle. As part of the comprehensive Software Testing Series, this book is dedicated to helping software testers and developers safeguard their applications against ever-evolving threats.

Michael Pasono, a CISSP-certified expert in cybersecurity and systems quality improvement, shares his vast experience to illuminate the critical role of security testing. In today’s digital landscape, where data breaches and cyberattacks are increasingly common, this book provides the essential strategies needed to protect sensitive data and ensure business continuity.

This volume explores the entire spectrum of security testing, beginning with an overview of the software development lifecycle (SDLC) and the importance of incorporating security measures from the very start. Pasono emphasizes the need for early security testing—shifting left in the SDLC—to identify and mitigate vulnerabilities before they become costly problems.

The book delves into specific security testing methodologies such as Static Application Security Testing (SAST), Dynamic Application Security Testing (DAST), and penetration testing, offering detailed guidance on tooling, setup, and execution. It also addresses the unique challenges posed by cloud environments, providing insights into cloud-specific security tools and practices.

For those working with cutting-edge technologies, Pasono includes a chapter on security testing for AI/ML systems, highlighting the importance of protecting data, algorithms, and models from adversarial attacks. The book also covers critical areas like vulnerability scanning, auditing, monitoring, and the integration of security checks into CI/CD pipelines.

“Software Testing Series – Security Testing” is more than just a technical manual; it’s a strategic resource for building secure software systems that can withstand the increasing threats of the digital age. With practical advice, best practices, and a focus on real-world application, this book equips readers with the knowledge to implement robust security testing frameworks and protect their organization’s most valuable assets.

Identity and Data Protection for the Average Person (Revision 2024)

“Identity and Data Protection for the Average Person” by Michael Pasono is an essential guide for anyone seeking to safeguard their personal information in an increasingly digital world. As technology continues to evolve, so do the threats to your identity and data. This book offers practical, easy-to-understand advice on how to protect yourself from these risks.

Michael Pasono, a CISSP-certified expert in cybersecurity and data protection, shares his extensive knowledge to help you navigate the complexities of modern data privacy. With years of experience in systems quality improvement and cybersecurity, Pasono is recognized as a leader in the field, making him the perfect guide for those new to the subject.

The book covers a wide range of topics, from understanding the differences between free and paid business models to navigating the intricacies of internet browsing, mobile security, and password management. Pasono explains how companies and hackers alike capitalize on collecting and exploiting your personal data, often without your knowledge. He provides actionable steps to limit your exposure, such as using anonymous browsers, setting up virtual private networks (VPNs), and managing your digital footprint.

In addition to technical advice, “Identity and Data Protection for the Average Person” emphasizes the importance of social awareness, teaching you how to recognize phishing attempts, avoid clickbait, and protect your online identity from social manipulation. The book also delves into the best practices for safeguarding your data across different devices, whether it’s your smartphone, computer, or cloud storage.

For those concerned about the growing threats to personal privacy, this book offers a proactive approach to protecting your identity. Pasono encourages readers to adopt a zero-trust mindset, only sharing the minimum necessary information and regularly reviewing the permissions granted to various services.

Whether you’re tech-savvy or just beginning to understand the importance of data protection, “Identity and Data Protection for the Average Person” provides the tools and knowledge you need to stay secure in today’s digital landscape.