How can web based applications be tested?

How can web based applications be tested?
Ans. Apart from functionality consider the following:

- What are the expected loads on the server and what kind of performance is expected on the client side?
- Who is the target audience?
- Will down time for server and content maintenance / upgrades be allowed?
- What kinds of security will be required and what is it expected to do?
- How reliable are the site's Internet / intranet connections required to be?
- How do the internet / intranet affect backup system or redundant connection requirements and testing?
- What variations will be allowed for targeted browsers?
- Will there be any standards or requirements for page appearance and / or graphics throughout a site or parts of a site?
- How will internal and external links be validated and updated?
- How are browser caching and variations in browser option settings?
- How are flash, applets, java scripts, ActiveX components, etc. to be maintained, tracked, controlled, and tested?
- From the usability point of view consider the following:

-- Pages should be 3-5 screens longer.
-- The page layouts and design elements should be consistent throughout the application / web site.
--Pages should be as browser-independent or generate based on the browser-type.
--There should be no dead-end pages. A link to a contact person or organization should be included on each page.