Definition

Apache JMeter

Alexander S. Gillis
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Apache JMeter is an open source, Java-based, load testing tool that can be used to analyze the functional behavior of a system and measure the performance of a system under a load test. A load test will simulate end-user behavior that approach the limits of an application’s specifications. Apache JMeter can be used to simulate varying or heavy loads on singular or multiple servers, networks or objects to test a system’s strength.

Jmeter works by simulating groups of users that send requests to a server or network, then returning statistics back to a user through visual diagrams. Apache Jmeter’s GUI looks similar to a browser; however, Jmeter cannot render HTML pages or the JavaScript found in the pages as a browser would. Additionally, Jmeter supports the use of plug-ins.  Plug-ins supported by JMeter will extend the functionality of Jmeter and can be installed through the Plugin Manager.

Uses for JMeter

In addition to load testing, Apache JMeter can also be used to perform performance, spike and unit testing. Performance testing is the process of determining the speed, responsiveness and stability of a computer, network, software program or device under a workload. Spike testing is a form of load testing which rapidly increases and decreases the load over short bursts of time before returning to an average load. Spike tests simulate a system where there is an unexpected increase and decrease in loads (for example an e-commerce store on Black Friday). Unit tests will analyze the smallest testable parts of an application. Jmeter can be used to unit test processes and protocols such as JDBC database connections, LDAP, JMS and HTTP.

Apache Jmeter workflow

Benefits of JMeter

Benefits of using Apache JMeter include:

  • Open source code base.
  • Support for browser plug-ins.
  • Support for offline analysis of test results.
  • Displays test results in a variety of ways, including charts, trees, tables or log files.
  • User-friendly graphical user interface (GUI).
  • Support for multiple types of tests and basic protocols.
This was last updated in March 2019

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