Skip to content
Postman API Testing Tips

How To Use Postman In Browser

API Testing Blog

Getting Started with Postman in the Browser

Postman is a powerful tool for interacting with APIs, making it an invaluable resource for software testing. This guide will walk you through the basics of using Postman in your web browser, helping you get started with API testing and development.

1. Postman Web App: Access the Power of Postman Directly in Your Browser

The most convenient way to use Postman is via its web application. No downloads are required, simply visit the official Postman website and click “Try Postman” to access the platform directly in your browser. This approach offers a streamlined experience, making it ideal for quick testing or collaborative efforts.

2. Explore the Postman Interface: Understanding the Key Components

Your Postman workspace will be divided into distinct sections, each serving a specific purpose:

  • Menu Bar: Provides access to key features like workspaces, collections, and team management.
  • Navigation Bar: Used to switch between your various Postman workspaces (collections, environments, etc.)
  • Builder: The core workspace where you construct your API requests.
  • Response Area: Displays the response from your API after you send a request.

3. Construct Your First API Request: Sending a Simple GET Request

Let’s start with a basic GET request to the popular “Random User” API.

Step 1: Input Request Details:

  • Method: Select “GET” from the dropdown menu in the Builder section.
  • URL: Enter the API endpoint: https://randomuser.me/api/

Step 2: Send the Request:

  • Click the “Send” button at the top right of the Builder section.

Step 3: Analyze the Response:

  • The response from the server will be displayed in the Response Area. You can view the data in different formats (JSON, HTML, etc.)

Sample Code (Request):

GET https://randomuser.me/api/

Sample Code (Response):

{
  "results": [
    {
      "gender": "female",
      "name": {
        "title": "Miss",
        "first": "Gloria",
        "last": "Howell"
      },
      // ... other data
    }
  ],
  "info": {
    // ... other data
  }
}

4. Sending Different Request Types: Exploring POST, PUT, DELETE, and More

Postman supports all common HTTP methods, allowing you to test a wide range of API interactions:

POST: Used to create new resources.

PUT: Used to update existing resources.

DELETE: Used to delete resources.

PATCH: Used to partially update resources.

Example: Sending a POST Request

  • Method: Select “POST” from the dropdown menu.
  • URL: The API endpoint for creating a new resource.
  • Body: Define the data to be sent in the request body (e.g., JSON format).

Sample Code (Request):

POST https://example.com/api/users
Content-Type: application/json


{
  "username": "testuser",
  "email": "test@example.com"
}

Sample Code (Response):

{
  "id": 12345,
  "message": "User created successfully"
}

5. Utilize Authorization: Securing Your API Requests

Many APIs require authorization (e.g., API keys, OAuth) for access. Postman makes it easy to configure this:

  • Authorization Tab: Select the relevant authorization type (API Key, Basic Auth, Bearer Token, etc.).
  • Configure Credentials: Provide the required authentication details.

Example: Basic Authentication

  • Select “Basic Auth”.
  • Enter your username and password.

6. Organize and Share Your Work: Collections and Environments

Collections: Group related requests together to streamline your workflow.

Environment: Store variables to manage different API environments (e.g., development, testing, production), enabling you to switch between them easily.

Example: Create a Collection:

  • Click the “New” button and select “Collection”.
  • Give your collection a descriptive name.
  • Add requests to the collection by dragging them in or using the “Add Request” button.

Example: Create an Environment:

  • Click the “New” button and select “Environment”.
  • Add variables that hold values like API keys, URLs, or other dynamic data.

7. Test Your API with Assertions: Verify Expected Behavior

Postman’s test feature lets you ensure your APIs are working as intended:

  • Tests Tab: Use the built-in testing tools (like JavaScript assertions): pm.test(), pm.expect(), etc.

Example: Testing for a Successful API Response:

pm.test("Status code is 200", function () {
  pm.response.to.have.status(200);
});

8. Power Up Your Testing: Exploring Advanced Postman Features

Postman offers numerous advanced features that help you streamline and enhance your testing process:

  • Pre-Request Scripts: Automate tasks before sending a request (e.g., generate dynamic data).
  • Post-Request Scripts: Automate actions after receiving a response (e.g., log data, perform additional tests).
  • Mocking: Create mock servers to simulate API behavior for testing frontend applications.

These features allow you to create more complex and versatile tests, automating tasks and improving your overall testing efficiency.

API Testing Blog