In a perfect world, the operations, testing, and development teams would all work together to produce bug-free, on-time, and cost-effective software. However, it becomes difficult to uphold these standards when applications become more complex, and firms adopt the Agile methodology (defined by short cycle durations and iterative sprints). However, due to service virtualization, developers and testers can keep quality high throughout the software development life cycle.
What Is Service Virtualization?
In the same way that pilots train on a flight simulator instead of a real plane and boxers use a punching bag instead of an actual opponent, virtualization mimics or simulates the actions of components that are unavailable or difficult to access during testing. These components include devices, databases, application programming interfaces, networks, and more.
Many factors can make resources inaccessible or difficult to use, including ongoing development or maintenance, complicated installation, ownership by a third party, high costs, or restrictions on use. With virtualization, testers can perform continuous integrated testing at any event of the software development lifecycle without depending on these assets or being limited by other teams. This allows for simultaneous, in-depth performance and functionality testing.
Service Virtualization for Api Testing Best Practices
1. Understand the API Under the Test
Virtualization can begin once a solid understanding of the tested API has been attained. This involves understanding the API’s input and output parameters and any external systems it relies on.
2. Identify the Dependencies
Service virtualization works excellently when external system dependencies exist, such as databases or other APIs. You must locate these dependencies/reliance points and evaluate their virtualization potential.
3. Create and Test a Virtual Service
Once you know the dependencies, a virtual service can be developed to simulate its operation. Tools like WireMock and Mountebank are helpful for this purpose. The virtual service needs to be rigorously validated before it can be used in testing to verify it will perform as expected. Validation of the virtual service’s conformity to the actual dependency’s behavior entails testing its reaction to various input parameters.
4. Collaboration with the Development Team
This is important because ensuring the virtual service is up-to-date and accurate requires close cooperation with the development team. The development team has insider knowledge of the API and its dependencies that can be used to build a reliable simulation of the service.
Popular Tools for Service Virtualization in API Testing
SmartBear ReadyAPI includes ReadyAPI Virtualization as one of its many features. Additionally, ReadyAPI provides several testing services for APIs. With ReadyAPI Virtualization, you’ll have access to Service Virtualization and API Mocking. It can fault isolate and execute traffic recordings as a mock thanks to its high-performance routing features.
You can either record the service you’re already using or create a virtual version based on an API description. Features include managing and generating dummy data and sharing and installing virtual services.
Due to ReadyAPI Virtualization, you’ll have complete control over how various behaviors are set up. Bandwidth limits, error thresholds, and response times are all customizable.
2. MockLab
The software is among the top five virtualization tools for software and services. It aids both developers and testers in producing high-quality code at a faster rate and with fewer bugs by simulating the production environment more accurately during testing.
· This tool generates the edge cases and failure models for testing, so there’s no need for a dedicated API anywhere in the code.
· It’s more efficient and has a fantastic fake setting for testing.
· Problems can be solved more quickly and with less effort here.
3. WireMock
Even without API in constructing the code with suitable modules, edges, checking the failure criteria, etc., this is one of the most excellent service virtualization solutions on the market, thanks to its API, which makes testing a pleasant experience. To simulate the production environment during testing, users can access attractive modules.
4. MicroFocus
This program is again helpful in the service virtualization of software development and testing. With its strong emphasis on simulating real-world conditions, this facilitates code testing more conveniently. As a tool with a multi-user environment, it allows for the simultaneous participation of more than one tester.
5. Hoverfly Cloud
Hoverfly is a service virtualization and API simulation tool developed by SpectoLabs and released under an open-source license. It’s a simple and lightweight tool that helps developers and testers accurately model APIs. It can run on Windows and macOS and has native Java and Python bindings. To contrast, Hoverfly Cloud is a hosted API simulation solution that lets developers and testers generate copies of real-world services and components in a risk-free testing environment.
How to Select the Right Service Virtualization Tool for API Testing
1. Understand Your Requirements
Identifying your testing needs is the first step in picking a service virtualization tool. Finding out what services, protocols, and other aspects need to be virtualized is part of this process.
2. Tool Features
As soon as you have a firm grasp on what it is you need, it’s time to start comparing service virtualization tools. Find a program with a solid reputation for dependability and performance that supports your required protocols and features.
3. Integration with Other Tools
If you already use a test management or continuous integration technology, see if the new tool you’re considering can be integrated. The testing procedure will become more streamlined as a result of this.
4. Support And Community
Find out how well-supported and actively used the tool is. For more dependability and access to essential resources for addressing any issues that may develop, it’s best to go with a tool that has a robust community and regular assistance.
5. Cost
Finally, consider how much the tool will cost you. Choose a program that is inexpensive and has all of the features you require.
Related case study — Automated Testing of Rest API
Summing Up
Service virtualization is a crucial technique for API testing because it allows for testing the API in a controlled environment without needing actual dependencies. Adhering to established practice norms is required to implement service virtualization for API testing successfully.
Furthermore, choosing the right service virtualization solution is crucial for complete testing. Before making a final decision, it is critical to consider the tool’s properties. If you follow these best practices and select the right solution, service virtualization can be a fantastic method for ensuring the reliability and quality of your API.
Moreover, if you’re looking for help in service virtualization for API testing, you can contact us. Mindfire Solutions offers complete software solutions to meet the IT and digital needs of businesses in all key industries. From Startups to established companies, our services aim to increase productivity, accelerate business growth, and strengthen our clients’ internet visibility.