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What are the 4 methods of API testing?

 The relevance of API is important in the software development scenario. When it comes to API testing, it ensures that APIs function as expected, integrate properly with other systems and comply with standards. To further enhance and optimize the performance of API testing, there are specific methods involved that can be used strategically. In this article, you will get to know the four methods of API testing.  

What is API testing? 

Application Programming Interface (API) is a set of commands that can be used by an individual program so that there is direct communication with one another and thus each other's functions can be used to get the required information.  

API testing is performed to make sure that the correct response is returned as per the expected format. Testing REST (Representational State Transfer) APIs with JSON (JavaScript Object Notation) over HTTP (Hypertext Transfer Protocol) and HTTPS. The following are a few points that need to be taken into consideration: 

  • Verifying API general performance, efficiency and jams 
  • The response for requesting multiple or single API endpoint calls needs to be validated 
  • Testing the authentication and API general security for possible gaps 
  • The API general status is being checked for quality control purposes 
  • The API business logic is tested for data responses.

 

Following are the four methods of API testing: 

1. Parameter tampering: Form fields that are basically hidden from view are used to perform parameter tampering. A browser element inspector is used to detect the presence of these fields. Once it has been incorporated, different kinds of values can be used to test it so that the reaction of the API and the extent of the exploitation possibilities can be properly understood. 

Parameters sent through API requests can be easily tampered, which in turn leads to unauthorized data leaks from the account of the user. 

 

2. API Input fuzzing: Different kinds of inputs are tried out by the fuzzing technique until one of those techniques discovers a security vulnerability that can be further exploited. If an API crashes or an error is returned, instead of the request being processed then that means there is an avenue for a successful attack.  

When numerical terms are accepted by API inputs then testers could try zero, large numbers or negative values. For strings, try inputting non-text characters, SQL queries or system commands.  

 

3. Command injection attacks: REST API is where command injection attacks take place when the insertion of operating commands is done into API inputs thereby opening up doors for exploitation. Operating system commands should be run by testers that can function appropriately with the specific version of the API server. If the content of the API is shown in the form of a URL then the add-on of the command onto the URL can be done to check for the execution of the server. 

 

4. Testing Unhandled HTTP methods: Various HTTP methods are used by web application security testing services so that communication through APIs can take place and various activities can be carried out such as deletion, storage or  retrieval of data. If the server doesn't support the HTTP method then an error might be displayed, but, if there is no support from the server-side then a security vulnerability may take place.  

For this to happen, a HEAD request can be made to the API endpoint and the authentication possibility can be verified. For complete safety, all the common HTTP methods including PATCH, DELETE, GET, POST etc., can be tested.        

 

Conclusion: If you are looking forward to implementing API testing for your specific web project, then do get connected with a premium software testing company in uk that will provide you with a well-defined testing strategy along with professional support that is in line with your project specific requirements.  

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