Review By: Jeannie A. Allen
10/05/2003The book is clearly written and easy to read. The organization is straightforward with relevant examples and concise conclusions in each section. Appropriate illustrations, including screen shots, tables, graphs, and diagrams are utilized effectively to clarify topics. Short code sections are also included where needed to demonstrate techniques. A sample web application, IBuySpy, is used throughout the book to illustrate concepts and techniques. The consistent use of this application facilitates continuity and understanding of the concepts presented. The book begins with a discussion of proper performance test planning techniques, and includes a good introductory discussion of performance testing in general. Core performance testing topics including use of IIS and performance logs to design relevant tests are included.

These introductory sections are relevant to any performance test project, regardless of platform. Two tool-specific chapters covering Microsoft Application Center Test (ACT), performance, and System Monitor are also included. A brief section discusses .NET specific counters, then the book moves on to discuss key aspects of Web Architecture, Network, Web, Managed Code, SQL Tier, and IIS Tier. The most extensive information regarding .NET performance testing is found in the "Performance Analysis of Managed Code," chapter of the book. At least 50 percent of the chapter is devoted to tool-specific instruction on the use of Compuware’s DevPartner Studio. A CD is included and contains the sample IBuySpy application, as well as a soft copy of the entire book. The CD is a helpful addition and facilitates quick reference to the material and sample code.

This is a good reference for a beginning performance tester who conducts tests of Web Applications using Microsoft Platforms and tools. However, the title, with its emphasis on .NET Applications, is somewhat misleading. Only a small portion of the book deals with .NET issues specifically Most chapters, such as Chapter 5, "Application Network Analysis," are not .NET specific, and are equally applicable for performance test projects of all types. A good amount of the book dedicated to information on Application Center Test, Perfmon, and Compuware DevPartner Studio, which could be easily obtained by reading the online help for those products, should your company use them.

The rest of the book gives a good overall approach to planning and executing performance tests on Web Applications running on Microsoft platforms, but would be redundant information for an experienced performance tester. I would recommend the book for a tester starting out. For an experienced Performance Tester, I'd recommend on focusing on the .NET counters, and Chapter 7 , "Performance Analysis of Managed Code." I would also recommend this book for .NET Web application developers. This book is a good overall reference for Performance Testing Web Applications using Microsoft platforms and tools, with a small portion of the book dedicated to .NET specific issues. This book is easy to read, and includes relevant examples and concise summaries. Although tool-specific in several areas, the book is still relevant for any tester conducting performance tests on Microsoft Web applications.