api-testing
Installation
SKILL.md
API Testing
Overview
API testing verifies HTTP endpoints directly without a browser or UI layer. It validates request/response contracts, status codes, headers, payloads, authentication, and error handling at the transport level. API tests are faster than E2E tests and provide high confidence that your services behave correctly.
Cross-Platform Tools
| Tool | Type | Strengths |
|---|---|---|
| .http files | VS Code REST Client / JetBrains HTTP Client | Version-controlled, inline in IDE, variable support |
| Bruno | Desktop + CLI | Git-friendly .bru collections, open source, no cloud sync required |
| Postman / Newman | Desktop + CLI | Rich GUI, team collaboration, extensive scripting, CI via Newman |
| k6 | CLI (JavaScript) | Scripted API tests with checks and thresholds, doubles as load tool |
| REST Client (VS Code) | VS Code extension | Lightweight, .http/.rest files, inline responses |