Apache JMeter Book Review

Apache JMeter Book Review

JMeter is a popular load testing tool built specifically for websites. The evolutions of websites have been very significant that websites have become more than just a simple source of information but a tool for varying purposes. The interaction between user and browser has become a complicated process that it could easily affect the website’s functionality. The aim of JMeter is to test the websites online application’s ability to handle multiple requests. Through the help of the application, developers could determine of their website is able to operate smoothly even when loaded to its limit.

This testing tool was first introduced to the public December 1998. As an open-source application, it could easily assist developers in testing their online applications. Being an open-source application also boosted the application’s popularity.

Aside from testing online applications before they are launched, JMeter also became an efficient application in monitoring website’s capability in handling continuous loading. This is often used by developers when they need to have a simple yet reliable monitor for their website.

Developed by Apache Jakarta, this application could be loaded in most Operating Systems. Written in Java, it’s geared to be highly interactive in providing developers data regarding the website’s capabilities.

The Author

The book is written by Emily H. Halili. She works as a QA Engineer in Malaysia and she credits her studies to California State University. With more than a decade of experience in QA and software testing, she has gained proficiency in various testing tools in the industry. She is known to be an expert in various testing tools which includes JMeter. Aside from QA and software testing, she also has extensive experience in software development and network maintenance. Ms. Halili also has extensive experience in teaching and training related to the computer industry.

First Impressions of the Book

Packt Publishing usually publishes big books especially on introduction to certain applications and processes. But this book is surprisingly small as it only consists of 120 pages of detailed instructions regarding JMeter. This should cause a concern for developers who are already familiar with different Packt books as it may be a disappointment and a waste of time.

But as the old adage says, “don’t just the book by its cover”. You’ll be surprised what you’ll read in this book. It’s a small book yet it’s a book packed with information that could help any developer who wants to understand JMeter.

Chapters 1 – 3: Background of JMeter

The first three chapters are dedicated in explaining the basics of JMeter. The first chapter explains automated testing. This chapter explains the pros and cons of automated testing and what type of automated testing application to choose. Don’t expect a lot of information regarding JMeter on this chapter.

The second chapter is dedicated to factual information regarding JMeter. The history of the testing tool as well as its features is explained in this chapter. What’s interesting in this chapter is the detailed explanation of the user interface. A beginner in JMeter will have a hard time going through the interface even with its reputation of simplicity. This chapter aim to deal with that problem effectively. The software requirements for JMeter are also explained in this chapter.

The third chapter provides a detailed instruction on how to properly start the application. Installation instructions are provided as well as dealing with the application for the first time. This testing tool will require Java Virtual Machine or JVM to be properly configured. This is a very important step since the interaction of JVM with the testing tool will determine the speed of testing as well as its accuracy.

Chapter 4 – 6: The Basics

The fourth chapter of the book introduces the user on how to properly plan for the website’s testing. Every component of the online application is being laid out and explained in this book why they should be tested as much as possible.

Chapter 5 deals with the extensive usage of JMeter based on the testing plan that was created. In this chapter, the basic functions of JMeter are laid out to properly execute the functions of JMeter. The actual implementation of the test plan is also discussed extensively in this chapter including on how to properly read the interpretation of the results provided by JMeter.

An important aspect of JMeter is the discussion of the application’s ability to monitor the application while they are actively running.

Chapter 6 deals with functional testing in terms of dealing with specific components of the application. This type of testing is different compared to the previous chapter since it will require JMeter to deal with the functional components of the application. Like the previous chapter, each component for functional testing is discussed in this chapter. The step by step application process is also explained in this chapter.

Chapter 7 – 8: Advanced Features and Summary

The final chapter before the summary may be the most interesting part of the book. The techniques need to learn in JMeter is actually applied in the advanced features. There are additional techniques that could be learned so that specific testing goals are achieved. The two types of servers – database and FTP can also be tested using JMeter. This type of feature is very useful since it could be used in building a highly effective application. Developers should be able to build a highly effective website when they are able to test the FTP and database servers effectively.

At the end of every chapter is a short summary regarding the previously discussed chapter. The final chapter of the book is also a summary of the topics that were discussed in the book. It’s a very short summary but it will help the reader get reacquainted with the previously discussed topics.

General Impression of the Book

To properly gauge the effectiveness of the book, we should consider the two types of audiences of this book – the beginners or those who are not familiar with JMeter and the advanced user.

The beginners will undoubtedly find this book very useful. It will slowly introduce JMeter to the user and each component is discussed. Those who are starting in JMeter should be able to know the basic requirements, functions and a little brush on the advanced functions which could be used if the basics are mastered.

But that doesn’t mean this book is not good for advanced users of JMeter. Packt is smart enough to make this book as short as possible so that it could become a handy reference book for advanced users. If Packt had made this into a 500-page giant like most of their books, it can’t really be appealing to advanced users. Advanced users will enjoy this book as reference book to help them maintain their skills in JMeter.

The layout of information regarding JMeter is impressive. The background of JMeter and automated testing is properly covered to explain in detail if the testing application is worth the hassle. The basic functions are clearly discussed and the reasoning behind a specific command is clearly explained.

Apache JMeter from Packt Publishers is a small book with intensive information. From Chapter 1 to its Summary, the book is continuously educating their readers - why JMeter and how to properly use the application.

This book is available for purchase at packtpub.com Apache JMeter

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