You use load profiles along with the load type to specify how ReadyAPI Performance should simulate virtual users. This helps you test how your server handles a varying load.
For information on different load simulation strategies, see Testing Scenarios.
Changing the Selected Load Profile
To change the selected load profile:
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Select the needed load test in the Navigator panel.
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Select a load scenario. The scenario inspector will appear on the right.
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Select the load profile you need from the drop-down list.
Click the image to enlarge it.
Available Load Profiles
The way in which a load profile works depends on the load type your test is using – VUs or Rate.
As for the VUs load type, load profiles work in the following way:
| Profile | Description |
|---|---|
| Fixed | Simulates the specified number of virtual users during the entire test run. |
| Burst | Runs a load test with sudden load increases. |
| Ramp Up | Runs a load test with the load increase over time. |
| Ramp Sequence | Runs a load test with several load increases and decreases over time. |
| Random | Runs a load test with the number of users simulated according to random value generators. |
| Variance | Runs a load test with the number of users simulated according to mathematical waveforms, for example, sine or saw waves. |
| Custom | Runs a load test with a custom load shape. |
As for the Rate load type, load profiles work in the following way:
| Profile | Description |
|---|---|
| Fixed | Simulates a permanent number of users arriving to the tested server per unit of time. |
| Burst | Runs a load test with sudden increases in the speed of virtual user arrival. |
| Ramp Up | Runs a load test with the load speed increase over time. |
| Ramp Sequence | Runs a load test with several increases and decreases in the user arrival speed over time. |
| Random | Runs a load test, in which the rate of virtual user arrival changes according to random value generators. |
| Variance | Runs a load test, in which the rate of virtual user arrival changes according to mathematical waveforms, for example, sine or saw waves. |
| Custom | Runs a load test with user-defined rate changes. |