How is a 'sandbox' environment used in software testing?

A 'sandbox' environment in software testing is primarily used to isolate testing activities from production systems. This isolation is crucial because it ensures that any experiments, tests, or changes made in the sandbox cannot inadvertently affect live data or operational systems. By using a sandbox, developers and testers can explore new features, identify bugs, and validate functionalities in a controlled setting without risking the integrity or availability of the production environment. This makes it an essential practice in software development, as it allows for comprehensive testing and safe iteration on software designs and functionalities before they are deployed in real-world applications.