Methodology and tools used in API Testing Introduction

Introduction

Performing pentests in APIs for many is a complex task, especially in some cases that do not have documentation to facilitate testing, thus having to perform a black box test that may or may not bring significant results.

In addition, doubts arise about tools and methods that can be used to test an API, mainly because it contains different types of designs and protocols. Therefore, testing a REST API, SOAP and GRAPHQL requires knowing a little about the architecture of each one in order to be able to collect information and exploit vulnerabilities effectively.

Some more details about how each API works:

1. REST (Representational State Transfer) API:

• Uses standard HTTP methods (GET, POST, PUT, DELETE) for operations.
• Stateless and cacheable.
• Simple and easy to use, with a focus on resources.

2. SOAP (Simple Object Access Protocol) API:

• Based on XML and uses HTTP or other protocols for communication.
• Strictly defined message formats and standards.
• More complex but offers additional features like built-in error handling and security.

3. GraphQL API:

• Developed by Facebook as an alternative to REST and SOAP.
• Allows clients to request specific data, reducing over- or under-fetching.
....