The demand for cloud computing changes the way end users monitor and deploy applications. Since the cloud serves as an infinite pool of resources for storage, computing, and other networking processes, more people trust this platform for their applications — resulting in a need for a structure to manage the cloud’s framework.
In fact, a 2017 Forbes report estimated that the global cloud IT market revenue will reach $390B in 2020, which will lead to a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 17 percent — all thanks to businesses and organizations depending on this tool.
But there is more to cloud computing than just cutting down infrastructure costs; enterprises use this platform to make the process more agile and efficient. Due to its complex nature, it makes sense to create strategies that prioritize towards testing applications in the cloud.
Applications require testing before it hits the market and cloud performance testing plays a big role in this set-up. Relying on simple testing, however, is not enough. Inadequacy in the performance testing process will result in serious problems after the launch.
Fortunately, proper strategizing spares users from future issues.
Strategies that Matter
Building an effective strategy requires other factors that touch on different elements of cloud testing: technology stack, project environments, acceptance factors, and business drivers. What strategies should you consider and how do you go about the creation process?
Gather Data and Statistics
Before you begin the testing process, it is important to do your research; gather information on load statistics from other customers sharing the cloud. Doing so will provide critical input on expected response times since the cloud hosts other applications. Run tests when the load is high and monitor the response time.
Conduct Stress Tests
Stress tests for public clouds require planning and execution. This form of test is critical for all applications since it enables users to understand the system’s behavior when it encounters breaking and pressure points. Unlike private clouds (where the space is exclusively available), public clouds serve as a platform for multiple users. This means that they need to be planned efficiently.
Check Scalability and Elasticity
Elasticity testing enables users to gain a better understanding of the cloud setup’s performance. It answers the questions, “Is the system still in line with the defined service-level agreement (SLA)?” and “Is further scalability still possible?”
Cloud setups that utilize pay-per-use models need elasticity testing to validate consumed services by users and estimate costs against usage. This approach also uses stress tests that cut the system’s breaking load. In such cases, using the boundary value analysis method enables users to determine the threshold.
Monitor Virtual Memory
Memory monitoring tools offer information regarding the system’s capacity and scalability for application testing. These tools conduct volume tests, which monitors the virtual environment’s memory.
Performance testing gives insight into your application’s performance under pressure. The cloud is a helpful tool that offers accurate results, provided that you build an intact strategy.
Complement your strategy with a system that works. Radview’s cloud performance testing tools will get the job done. With WebLoad, you can easily generate virtual user load with minimal setup. All you need is your own Amazon account.
Get in touch with us today to learn more about this service.
