JMeter is a widely used free, open-source tool for load, functional, and regression testing. In this article, we will discuss how to use Apache JMeter for functional testing and regression testing. Functional testing is a type of testing that ensures the application or software meets the requirements and functions as expected. Regression testing, on the other hand, is a type of testing that ensures the changes made to the application do not break the existing functionality. JMeter can be used for both types of testing.
Table of contents
Functional testing with JMeter
Functional testing in JMeter involves creating test scenarios that simulate user actions and verifying that the application functions as expected. JMeter has a user-friendly interface that allows testers to create test scenarios easily.
To create a functional test scenario in JMeter, follow these steps:
Create a Test Plan
The first step is to create a test plan. A test plan contains one or more Thread Groups representing a group of users. To create a test plan, go to File, then New Test Plan.
Add a Thread Group
A Thread Group represents a group of users that will be simulated. To add a Thread Group, right-click on the test plan and select Threads (Users) and Thread Group.

Add Sampler
Once you have added a Thread Group, the next step is to add a Sampler. A Sampler simulates user actions such as sending an HTTP request. To add a Sampler, right-click on the Thread Group and select Add, Sampler, then HTTP Request.

Configure Sampler
After adding a Sampler, you need to configure it by specifying the URL and any parameters required by the request. You can do this in the HTTP Request Sampler settings.

Add Assertions
Once you have added a Sampler, you can add Assertions to verify the response. An Assertion checks that a response contains certain elements or has specific characteristics. To add a Response Assertion, right-click the Sampler, select Add, and click Response Assertion.
Run the Test
Finally, you can run the test by clicking the toolbar’s green play button. JMeter will simulate the user actions and verify the response.

Regression testing with JMeter
Regression testing in JMeter involves creating test scenarios that ensure the changes made to the application do not break the existing functionality. JMeter can be used to automate regression testing.
We have created a comprehensive article that goes over Recording HTTP Requests with JMeter’s Proxy Server.
Final thoughts on using JMeter for functional and regression testing
JMeter is a powerful tool that can be used for functional testing and regression testing. Functional testing in JMeter involves creating test scenarios that simulate user actions and verifying that the application functions as expected. In contrast, regression testing consists of creating test scenarios that ensure the changes made to the application do not break the existing functionality.
To create a functional test scenario in JMeter, you need to create a test plan, add a Thread Group and a Sampler, configure the Sampler, add Assertions, and run the test. To create a regression test scenario in JMeter, you need to record a test plan, configure the proxy settings, configure your browser, perform user actions, add Assertions and Variables, and run the test plan.
Using JMeter for functional and regression testing can help ensure your application’s or software’s quality. By simulating user actions and verifying that the application functions as expected, you can catch issues before they reach your users. By automating regression testing, you can ensure that the changes made to the application do not break the existing functionality.
In conclusion, JMeter is a valuable tool for any tester or developer looking to ensure their application’s or software’s quality. Following the steps outlined in this article, you can create compelling test scenarios that will help you catch issues before they reach your users.
This post is part of our comprehensive JMeter Mini-Course.
Follow our blog
Be the first to know when we publish new content.