API Testing Resource Center
Guides and best practices for REST API testing, service virtualization, and API security
APIs: Testing the Center of the Online Universe
APIs, or Application Programming Interfaces, are at the heart of most data driven applications. Never before has the access to so much data been so widespread; with the adoption of RESTful API design and frameworks like Swagger, our connected world is growing even more connected. APIs are often overlooked during the QA phase, since users can't directly complain about a bug or performance issue of the actual API, all they see is your loading screen waiting to be filled with data. Nevertheless, testing web services and APIs, both internal and external is critical in producing quality software that works for the end user in a manner that it's supposed to.
Software applications are often thought of as having 3 layers: A data layer, a logic layer, and the presentation( or GUI) layer. APIs sit at the logic or messaging layer, and is the conduit between databases around the world, and your front-end program that a user interacts with. There are many aspects of API testing that are similar to traditional software testing, like performance testing or mocking, but since their is no GUI, there are a few quirks to master. Read through our collection of API Testing resources, and be sure to keep up with our newest posts and videos.
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REST API Testing: For Beginners
Let's take some fundamentals of software testing, flip them on their side, and see how we can get better API testing.
Read article →Why You Should Test Your APIs
Coming over from GUI Testing, or just beginning testing your REST or SOAP APIs? Start here to learn why testing APIs is critical!
Read article →Virtualizing Your APIs
Learn the specific benefits of rolling out an API virtualization program, as well as methods and practical tips to implement within your own organization.
Read article →Additional Articles
5 Load Testing Scenarios for Your API
Different load conditions reveal different weaknesses. Explore five scenarios to stress-test your API and see how it holds up under pressure.
Read article →API Service Virtualization
When a dependent system is unstable, unavailable, or still in development, service virtualization keeps your team testing without slowing down.
Read article →API Testing Strategies
Knowing how to test your API is only half the battle. Learn what to test, and in what order, to build a strategy that scales.
Read article →Best Practices: Authentication
Confirming the identity of a user or system is the first line of defense for any API. Learn best practices for testing authentication.
Read article →Service Virtualization 101
Service virtualization simulates components that are unavailable or difficult to access, so teams can test continuously throughout the SDLC.
Read article →What Is API Security Testing?
As APIs expose more sensitive data, they become more valuable to attackers. Learn how to secure your APIs before, during, and after production.
Read article →What is API Mocking?
When APIs aren't available or stable enough to use, mocking simulates their behavior so development and testing can continue.
Read article →What is Service Virtualization?
Complex, interdependent applications make smooth delivery difficult. Learn how service virtualization helps teams test without the bumps.
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