A Comprehensive Guide: Testing APIs Using Ruby in 2022

Testing APIs is a crucial step to ensure your eCommerce store is ready for every one of its users. By testing your code you can detect small bugs or code mistakes that could potentially become bigger, site-wide issues in the future. Every improvement counts when it comes to perfecting the front and back ends of your online store. That’s why learning how to test APIs with Ruby can optimize your eCommerce store’s code by far, especially if your site runs on this particular software. Because of our extensive experience with this program, we have put together a simple guide to how to test an API with Ruby. Keep reading to learn new Ruby API testing tips!

How to test an API with Ruby:

1. Create a new project in Ruby

No matter if you’re testing a brief blog API or a huge update to improve your site speed, it all starts with creating a project for the API you need to test. You need to generate a new project specifically for the API to be tested on your terminal, using RSpec or Ruby’s built-in testing tool. Make sure Ruby generates the necessary folders and files for the testing to proceed as it should as well, despite which testing program you prefer to use.

2. Organize the API endpoints

If you’re testing multiple APIs with Ruby API testing tools, it’s in your best interest to properly organize the different endpoints for each API. The easiest way to do this is to separate them into different categories based on which ones share crucial information such as pathway, resource type, and other details. With categories, your tests can become reusable and the door opens to possibilities of extension and further integration of other APIs in the future. This will help improve your test management and save substantial time that otherwise could be lost due to poor organization.

3. Generate a model for the API you want to test

When it comes to how to test an API with Ruby, you’ll need to create models depending on which content each API needs to include. The models help APIs hold this content and perform better with the help of validations. They cover all possible combinations and methods of data involved in the APIs and ensure a well-rounded testing experience.

4. Run both positive and negative API tests

If you want to test an API with Ruby and receive definitive results to ensure your eCommerce store doesn’t have any unexpected bugs, then you need to do both negative and positive Toby API testing. This will help you be 100% sure that API is working properly and won’t fail all of a sudden since the two tests check different aspects of the API’s performance. The positive test checks that the API receives appropriate input and returns the anticipated output according to the specified re1uirements while the negative test ensures the API returns the right response when there’s no expected output.

5. Implement automated API testing tools to make future tests easier

Once you’ve completed the steps mentioned above and have run both your positive and negative Ruby API tests, it’s time to start the automation process. This will help you test an API with Ruby much more efficiently in the future. There are different ways to automate the Ruby API testing process, but one of the easiest ways to lighten the burden caused by testing procedures is through client-api, an open-source Ruby library with tools to optimize your testing experience.

Do you need any help with the back-end development of your eCommerce store?

At Resolve Digital, we understand that the software development of your eCommerce store might not fall within your scope of responsibilities. Sometimes there’s simply too much already on your plate to handle tasks like Ruby API testing or software integrations. That’s where we can help your eCommerce business grow! We have an experienced team of talented IT professionals ready to help you with all your eCommerce development needs, including how to test an API with Ruby. Contact us to learn more about our services!