The first step for testing session timeouts and redirects is to define the requirements clearly and precisely. You need to know what the expected behaviour is for different user actions, such as logging in, logging out, refreshing the page, closing the browser, or switching to another tab. You also need to know what the timeout duration is, how it is measured, and what factors can affect it, such as user activity, network conditions, or server settings. Additionally, you need to know what the redirect rules are, where the user is redirected to, and what information is preserved or lost in the process.
The next step is to design test cases that cover all the possible scenarios and outcomes for session timeouts and redirects. To verify the functionality, usability, security, and performance of the web application, use a combination of positive and negative test cases, as well as boundary and edge cases. Examples of test cases include verifying that the user is redirected to the login page after the session expires, that they can resume the session after refreshing the page within the timeout duration, or that they can log out manually. Additionally, ensure that the user is redirected to the appropriate page based on their role and permissions, that they can access the same page after logging in again, or that they cannot access it with a different account. Ensure also that user data is not compromised or corrupted by session timeouts and redirects, that session timeout and redirect messages are clear and accurate, and that the session timeout and redirect functions do not affect the performance or availability of the web application.
The third step is to choose the tools and techniques that suit your testing needs and preferences. You can use manual or automated testing, or a combination of both, depending on the complexity, frequency, and scope of your testing. When it comes to the types of tools and techniques, you have a few options. Browser tools like inspect element, console, or network tab can be used to view and edit session variables, cookies, headers, requests, and responses. Additionally testing frameworks such as Selenium or Cypress automate and execute test cases for session timeouts and redirects. With these options in mind, you can create and verify different session scenarios with the help of browser settings, proxy tools, network tools, and testing frameworks.