Chapter 5. Performance Profiles of Common Web Sites

Now that we understand how a Java web site works, let's move on to evaluating the web site's performance. Web applications and web sites differ , and their performance requirements vary widely. Therefore, the single most important question to ask before beginning a web site performance test is this: What does the web site need to do well? For example, some web sites exist to return graphics-laden catalog pages, while others exist to provide textual information about stocks and bonds . Obviously, the performance requirements of these web sites differ, and so should their performance tests. Often, test teams assume their job is to find the maximum throughput the site supports, and they build a test accordingly . However, the actual measure of the web site's success may be how quickly it returns pages or how well it supports a large number of logged-in users. In short, performance testing is not "one size fits all." Every web site requires a test designed to exercise its key performance criteria.

This chapter explores the performance characteristics of some popular types of web sites. Using these characteristics, we discuss how to design a relevant performance test for the web site. Even if your site doesn't quite match the ones covered here, these examples might help you think about your specific performance requirements.