A test framework is a structured environment that provides tools and guidelines for testing software applications. It helps developers and testers create, execute, and manage test cases efficiently. By using a test framework, teams can ensure consistency in testing processes, making it easier to identify bugs and verify that the software meets its requirements. Test frameworks can be categorized into various types, such as unit testing frameworks, integration testing frameworks, and end-to-end testing frameworks. Popular examples include JUnit for Java applications, pytest for Python, and Selenium for web applications. These frameworks streamline the testing process and improve overall software quality.