Running Automation Script in machine without interrupting routine tasks using Virtual Desktop.

The below tool can be used while executing Test Automation Script more efficiently without interrupting our daily tasks in the same laptop.

Desktops.exe

Microsoft has provided a tool. - With which we can create multiple virtual desktops.

Link: http://technet.microsoft.com/en-us/sysinternals/cc817881.aspx

·         Launch the desktops.exe

·         From taskbar ->desktops->options right click.

Select “alt”, and number.(1,2,3,4)

And also select “Run automatically on logon”.

Now login to site as one user role,

Click alt + 2.

New virtual desktop gets created and launches.

Open IE browser and login to site as another user role.

We can navigate back to first desktop using alt + 1.

Normally Automation tool (QTP) runs only if it is highlighted / active on the desktop.

So when we try to execute the automation script in the laptop, the focus moves frequently on the application which is automated this will interrupt our other tasks.

Using below tool, we can run the Automation script in one session and other tasks in another session.

One drawback:

1)     if we are automating web application on IE browser which requires IE application close/open in the middle of automation, then we will not be able to work with IE Browser seamlessly in another instance created by below tool.