Testing application programming interfaces involves ensuring the APIs meet expectations for reliability, functionality, performance, and security. Testers face various challenges when conducting API tests. Here is a look at some of the most common ones and how you can solve them.
Solving Testing Infrastructure Challenges with API Testing Tools
If you are new to the world of API testing, you will need first to read an API testing tutorial. But even after you have become familiar with testing methods, you are sure to encounter challenges. Indeed, the first step of getting the testing infrastructure up and running can be one of the most difficult parts of the process. However, it can run smoother when you use API testing tools. These automated testing tools can support multiple environments, such as cloud integration and API collections. When you begin looking for the right API testing tools for your requirements, pay attention to inclusive features such as organization, customization, and integration.
Updating the Schema
You must maintain the schema, which is the data formatting that deals with requests and responses for your API, throughout the testing process. When updates to the program create additional parameters, they need to be reflected in the schema configuration. However, such changes can create downtime for the API. To avoid that, make sure you thoroughly test the API in both alpha and beta environments.
Sequencing API Calls
Often, API calls have to be in a particular order for them to work properly. But that creates a sequencing challenge. For instance, the request will return an error if a call to return a user profile information goes through before the profile is actually created. You can solve this problem by having a release candidate to help you to manage and see the API sequencing.
Parameter Combination Testing
When testing an API, it is vital to test all of the potential parameter request combinations to ensure there are no problems pertaining to specific configurations. By exponentially adding an additional parameter, you will increase the number of possible combinations. It is a good idea to select one or two applications and release the API only on those applications. Choose applications that are not crucial to your daily operations.
Validating Parameters
It can be challenging to validate the parameters sent via API requests. And due to the high number of parameters and use cases, the task can be daunting. You must ensure all parameter data uses the correct numerical information and string type and that it fits within length restrictions. To avoid parameter validation challenges, you can simply use a continuous synthetic API to catch the problem early on. And if you combine it with an APM, you can have a 360-degree view.
Tracking System Integration
You need to make sure the API testing system is working properly with the data tracking system. That will enable you to bring back correct responses for whether calls are working correctly or not. To avoid issues, you need to think about your application during the design phase. Consider how it will integrate with other systems and how different applications have different requirements. Ensure you do not cause applications to fail by testing them in parallel with vital integration systems. You can accomplish that by implementing load testing in your continuous delivery.