With the growing debate over the cloud, there have been discussions about the load and performance testing within the cloud as well. Being a software tester, it’s often difficult to analyze the situation, where you have a critical task to involve the cloud at the most appropriate time while performing load testing or performance testing. In addition, questions regarding the advantages of the cloud testing to the company always revolve in the mind.
Though there are a number of ways in which your company can benefit from cloud load testing; however, there are few do’s and don’ts that must be considered for future cloud testing projects.
Cloud can be used for the most realistic load tests
The most realistic way to execute performance and load testing is using clouds, which is otherwise impossible. There is always an added advantage for any application that has been continuously tested on a cloud. The users that are distributed all over the globe can be simulated and mimicked to provide a real-world scenario. In addition, cloud-based performance testing allows you to test the extreme firewalls, load balancers, and the entire delivery chain.
The cloud allows you to set up a testing infrastructure and use it according to the requirements. You still need to purchase and maintain the real machines; however, it proves to be cost-effective and time-friendly.
On-premise load testing still holds some value
Both types of testing are beneficial, with the on-premise testing better suited for evaluating baseline performance. In addition, while testing internal components and troubleshooting a recurring bottleneck, on-premise load testing is ideal. However, one should know when to use the internal systems and when to use the cloud.
Being a vital part of the load testing strategy, the essence of the cloud testing is to know how to deploy it in the best possible way.
The below-mentioned table highlights a few do’s and don’ts on cloud performance testing.
| DO | DON’T |
| 1. For a better insight and more realistic tests, you must emulate your users by geographically distributing the load generators. | Avoid replicating your local load generator setup randomly in the cloud. |
| 2. Separate the environments of your load generators from the application’s environment. | Never use the same cloud to run your load generators. |
| 3. Use the cloud where it suits best, like simulating real-world scenarios and executing complicated tests involving multiple transactions. By isolating the issue, you can efficiently squash the bug. | You shouldn’t eliminate your local testing infrastructure, as it can still hold some value in identifying performance related issues. |
| 4. Maintain a centralized dashboard to track all the running tests. This helps in proper coordination and management from a centralized platform. | Never ignore the meter, as you have to pay according to the usage. |
| 5. Use multiple cloud vendors with wide varieties to replicate more realistic usage scenarios. | Do not delay updating your tests. |
| 6. Integrate mobile testing and ensure that the mobile emulators are being used by the cloud generators. | Never avoid perimeters like firewalls, load balancers, etc., as they are the integral part of the created realistic scenario. |
How to maximize the capabilities of cloud testing?
It’s easier to start with cloud load testing on your own by following the above-mentioned do’s and don’ts. However, there are various out-of-the-box solutions offering flexibility, scalability, and effectiveness to the maximum extent. Such solutions aim at meeting the required preference level and monitoring performance in real-time. Moreover, this helps in utilizing the cloud for load and performance testing in the best possible way so that it suits and benefits your company.
