How to automate performance testing using JMeter?

Performance testing checks how a specific product or application performs under varying workloads. The objective of this testing method is to ensure that the product can perform at peak levels. JMeter is an efficient tool that can perform performance testing effectively. Both static and dynamic resources are tested using JMeter performance testing. In this article, you will get to know the steps required to automate performance testing using JMeter. 

What is JMeter testing?

The Apache JMeter is a Java-based, open-source tool that is used for measuring performance and load test functional behavior. Test scripts can be executed effectively against a web application. The script that is being developed to test the application should include the following:

• Application Login

• To introduce specific test data programmatically, java code should be inserted using custom scripting

• Make REST calls to the service layer

• Simulating multiple users so that the system can be accessed concurrently to mimic stress testing and/or typical user load.

JMeter supports scripting REST calls. By adding an HTTP request, the creation of each individual REST call takes place. 

Following are the 5 steps required to automate performance testing using JMeter:

1. The Apache JMeter needs to be set up:

• Open the JMeter folder

• Click on the bin folder

• Select the JMeter .bat file and then double-click on it

After a few seconds, the JMeter window will open. The test plan should be/is renamed as performance testing.

2. A Thread group should be added:

• Right-click on the performance testing 

• Go to add, then proceed to Threads (Users) and select Thread Group

Here, the thread group can be assumed based on the number of users 

3. The HTTP request should be added:

• Right-click on the thread group, proceed to add option and then again proceed to the sampler option

• You will find a menu from which to select the HTTP request option

An IP box or server name can be seen that will provide the IP or server name in that.

This demo will use the TestingXperts website:

• Go to the TestingXperts website

• Copy the URL

• Return to the JMeter window and then paste the URL in the server name box

Kindly do not provide HTTP or HTTPS, as these protocols will come in another box, which will in turn be automatically taken in the HTTP request case.

• Leave a forward slash in the path dialog box

The objective is to access the route page and hence the forward slash is used.

4. Listeners should be added:

• Go to Add and then select the Listener option and then proceed to the View results in the tree option

• Right-click on the Listener option again and then select graph results 

• To add a third listener, again right-click and choose the View Results in Table option.

5. Run the test:

• Save this JMeter test

• Finally, run the test by clicking on the green button.

You can see the test running when you visit the “View Results tree.” The same can be applied to graph results also.

The strategic importance of JMeter:

A request is created by JMeter and then sent to the server. Once the server’s response is received, the details are collected and visualized in the form of a graph or a chart. After that, the server’s response is processed. Finally, the test results are generated in several formats such as JSON, XML, TXT etc., so that the data can be easily analyzed by the tester.

Conclusion: If you are looking forward to implementing performance testing for your specific project, then do get connected with a leading software testing services company that will provide you with a detailed testing solutions roadmap that is in line with 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.