TFS (Team Foundation Server) is the Foundation stone of the Visual Studio Tools. TFS holds all data created for a test (and development) Project as well as workflow, user information, etc.
Although setting up a TFS server is easy, just like any other dev. data storage it requires a server resource, O/S, database instance, etc. – not to mention data retention/backup/offload maintenance, network access configuration, etc.
What if someone could do that for you?
Now We do. As per November 1st, 2012 the TFS Service has left its preview state and is now in full operation. The TFS Service is a hosted TFS instance in the cloud, operated and maintained by Microsoft. Access to the data is enabled through Microsoft Test Manager, web browser and Visual Studio – just like you access a local TFS server.
And yes – the service is FREE up to 5 users. No, really… FREE. For more than 5 users a paid plan will be available and the service is included in an MSDN subscription of certain levels (see here).
So, what are you waiting for? It’s as easy as 1-2-3:
- Sign up for your own instance of TFS Service
- Connect your Microsoft Test Manager to the service
- Create and run tests, do exploratory testing– enjoy!