What are the pros and cons of API testing?

API testing focuses on the performance, reliability and functionality of application programming interfaces (APIs). It acts as a connecting link between different software systems so that data can be exchanged and communicated with each other. Issues are also identified and fixed before the application is being deployed for production. In this article, you will get to know the pros and cons of API testing.    

What is an Application Programming Interface (API)? 

API acts as a software intermediary through which the standard for communication is defined between two programs. A user interface is a medium through which the backend services can be communicated by end-users.  

What is API testing? 

It is a testing method wherein the interactions between different APIs and individual API methods are tested. The API’s behavior is assessed to know whether it is aligned with the system requirements or not. API testing can be conducted both manually or through automated mode.

Following are a few key tasks that are performed by API testing: 

• The scalability and performance of the API is verified 

• The API functionality is tested to make sure that it is behaving as expected 

• The correct response should be returned by API for different input values. Input validation and error handling should also be checked. 

Pros of API testing: 

1. Stability of tests: When there is an exposure of third parties by API interfaces they are considered to be more stable. Extensive documentation is where the reflection of changes made to the APIs is presented. Hence, test suites can be promptly modified by QA engineers.  

2. Enhanced test coverage: Most of the API services contain specifications, which, in turn, helps in developing high-coverage tests that cover both non-functional and functional testing. It helps in identifying potential flaws in interfaces, databases and servers, thereby improving user experiences and raising the overall software quality. 

3. The significance of language independence: Since the data is exchanged using XML or JSON formats and responses and HTTP requests are compromised, the conduction of API tests can be done in any language and are entirely independent of the application language.   

Cons of API testing: 

1. Validating UI: If the performance of tests are done only at the API layer then it means that the data is being handled correctly, but, that does not mean that the user will be able to interact with a specific application in an expected way. UI risks are not covered by API testing and hence API and UI testing should be combined. 

2. Combination, parameter selection and call sequencing: The API requests through which the parameters are being sent must be assessed before they are being used. Testers must make sure that all the parameter data that is being used is aligned with the validation requirements. This includes adherence to length restrictions, a given value range and the use of numerical data or appropriate string.  

It is quite difficult to combine parameters because the testing of each combination is done to see if issues are contained with particular configurations. In order to make sure that the system is functioning properly, there should be a specific order for every call to appear and this in turn can make call sequencing a challenge.    

3. A stronghold in technical skills: When APIs are being tested for the first time, it becomes quite difficult. The maintenance and development of automated tests as well as the launch and creation of the API test environment is considered to be quite challenging. The QA team requires programming language experience and specific technical skills. 

Conclusion: If you are looking forward to implementing API testing for your specific project, then get connected with a premium software testing services company that will provide you with comprehensive testing solutions that will justify your project specific requirements. 

About the author: I am a technical content writer focused on writing technology specific articles. I strive to provide well-researched information on the leading market savvy technologies.