WCAT

WCAT version 6.4, developed by Microsoft, is a highly effective tool in the Internet & Network category, specifically within the Network Tools subcategory. Measuring just [FILE_SIZE] MB, this freeware program offers a lightweight and efficient solution for HTTP load generation and performance testing of web servers.

The latest version, WCAT 6.4, operates seamlessly on operating systems including Windows XP, 7, 10, and 11, maintaining backward compatibility with older versions like 6.3 and 6.2. Once you download this free software, the primary executable, cmd.exe, enables users to simulate thousands of concurrent users accessing one or multiple websites, providing a robust environment for controlled performance testing.

WCAT supports a wide range of features including HTTP 1.0 and HTTP 1.1 capabilities, IPv6 support, multithreaded functionality, and the ability to generate stress from multiple machines. Use WCAT's extensible nature to integrate C plug-in DLLs for added functionalities or to support performance counter integration. Important metrics like throughput and response time are measured, with support for SSL requests and NTLM authentication requests adding layers of real-world testing scenarios.

Web Capacity Analysis Tool is incredibly lightweight with low hardware requirements yet offers powerful extensibility, capable of handling any aspect of an HTTP request or response. The program is particularly beneficial for scenarios requiring remote collection of performance data and registry information.

Pros:

• Lightweight and low on hardware requirements, making it easily deployable.
• Offers extensive extensibility through plug-in DLLs and a simple API.
• Provides comprehensive support for multi-threading and integrating multiple machines for stress testing.

Cons:

• The learning curve might be steep for those not familiar with script-based performance tools.
• Limited to Windows OS, which could be restrictive for environments running different operating systems.

Download WCAT today to leverage its robust capabilities in HTTP load generation and web server performance testing within a controlled, extensible environment.

You may want to check out more software, such as Inspyder InSite Trial or SecureFX, which might be similar to WCAT.