7. Testing Our SOAP Web Service Endpoints

Introduction

In this course, you will learn how to effectively test a SOAP endpoint. SOAP (Simple Object Access Protocol) relies on a contract-first approach using XSD/XML, which can be challenging. We will guide you through the process of overcoming these challenges and ensure your testing is thorough and efficient.

1: How to Test a SOAP Endpoint

Understanding SOAP Endpoints

• Definition: A SOAP endpoint is a web service entry point where clients send SOAP messages.
• Importance: Testing ensures that the service meets the specified contract and performs as expected.

Overcoming the XSD/XML Contract-First Challenge

• Challenge: SOAP relies on strict contracts defined by XSD/XML, which can be complex and error-prone.
• Solution: Use tools that can parse and validate these contracts automatically, reducing manual errors.

2: Choosing a Testing Tool

Recommended Tools

1. Eclipse IDE Plugin Tools
   • Advantages: Integrated development environment, supports various plugins for SOAP testing.
   • Usage: Suitable for developers who are already using Eclipse for development.
2. Browser Development Tools
   • Advantages: Easy to access, no need for additional software.
   • Usage: Quick checks and simple tests, though not as powerful as dedicated tools.
3. Freeware Tools
   • SOAP UI:
     • Advantages: Comprehensive tool specifically for SOAP and REST testing, with support for automation and scripting.
     • Usage: Ideal for detailed testing, including complex scenarios.
   • Postman:
     • Advantages: Originally designed for REST, but can also be used for SOAP with some configuration.
     • Usage: Great for users familiar with Postman who need to test both REST and SOAP.

3: Using Our Chosen Testing Tool

Testing a SOAP Service Using SOAP UI

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Download and Install SOAP UI
   • Go to the SOAP UI website and download the latest version.
   • Follow the installation instructions for your operating system.
2. Create a New SOAP Project
   • Open SOAP UI and click on File > New SOAP Project.
   • Enter the project name and the initial WSDL URL.
   • SOAP UI will parse the WSDL and generate the required request templates.
3. Understanding the Interface
   • Project Tree: Displays your projects, interfaces, operations, and requests.
   • Request Editor: Where you compose and send your SOAP requests.
   • Response Viewer: Displays the server responses.
4. Composing a Request
   • Expand the project tree to find the specific operation you want to test.
   • Double-click on the request to open it in the Request Editor.
   • Fill in the required fields with appropriate values.
5. Sending the Request
   • Click on the Submit button in the Request Editor.
   • SOAP UI will send the request to the endpoint and display the response in the Response Viewer.
6. Validating the Response
   • Ensure the response matches the expected structure and values as defined in the WSDL/XSD.
   • Use assertions to automate response validation (e.g., Schema Compliance, XPath Match).
7. Handling Errors and Debugging
   • Analyze error messages to understand issues with the request or response.
   • Use the raw view to see the exact request sent and the response received for troubleshooting.

Section 4: References

1. SOAP UI Documentation
2. W3C XML Schema Definition Language (XSD) 1.1