What is Web Application Proxy

A Web Application Proxy (WAP) is a security component that acts as a gateway between external users and internal web applications. It helps protect enterprise applications by ensuring only authenticated and authorized users can access them remotely.

Key Functions of Web Application Proxy:

• Pre-Authentication: Ensures users authenticate before accessing internal applications.
• Reverse Proxy: Forwards requests securely without exposing internal servers.
• Single Sign-On (SSO): Allows seamless access across multiple applications.
• Conditional Access: Restricts access based on user, device, or location.

In software testing, WAP plays a crucial role in performance, security, and accessibility testing by simulating real-world scenarios where users access web apps remotely. It helps testers evaluate application behavior under different network conditions and security constraints.