Testing Applications on the Web: Test Planning for Mobile and Internet-Based Systems, Second Edition

Chapter 21. Web Testing Tools

Why Read This Chapter?

Web applications operate in dynamic environments. Occasionally, testing tools are required to complement manual testing efforts. Some test types (e.g., load and performance testing) would be impractical to perform without the help of tools to simulate the actions of thousands of users. The value of various tools varies according to the specific testing needs, budget, and staffing constraints associated with the system under test.

Topics Covered in This Chapter

• Introduction

• Types of Tools

• Additional Resources

Introduction

This chapter describes various types of Web testing tools, how the tools are used, and where the tools can be acquired. Many of the software vendors listed in this chapter offer evaluation copies of their products. Return-on-investment calculations (both short-term and long-term) can help you decide which tool makes the most sense for your particular project.

Types of Tools

Following are lists of various Web testing tools and descriptions of each.

Rule-Based Analyzers

Type:

Static analyzer (note: The notion of static analyzer means that the code does not have to be compiled and executed.)

Input:

Source (code)

Output:

Various analytical and error reports

Primary user:

Developer

Secondary user:

Tester

Technology principle.

This type of tool reads the input source and compares the written code with the coding standards or language-specific rules in an effort to uncover inconsistencies and potential errors. They are, in some ways, comparable ...