Capacity Testing is a type of performance testing that evaluates a system’s ability to handle a specified workload or volume of users, transactions, or data while maintaining acceptable performance levels. It helps determine the maximum capacity the system can support effectively. Key aspects include:
Purpose:
- Determine maximum user load
- Identify performance bottlenecks
- Validate system scalability
Process:
- Define capacity requirements
- Design test scenarios
- Gradually increase load
- Monitor system behaviour
- Analyse results
Metrics Measured:
- Response time under load
- Throughput
- Resource utilisation (CPU, memory, network)
Types of Capacity Tests:
- Baseline capacity tests
- Stress tests
- Scalability tests
Benefits:
- Helps in capacity planning
- Identifies system limitations
- Guides infrastructure decisions
Capacity testing ensures systems can handle expected and peak loads effectively.