Postman is a popular API testing and development tool. It is available in two forms: a Web version that runs in the browser and a Desktop App that runs as a native application. Both provide powerful features for API testing, but they differ in capabilities, performance, and limitations.
? Key Concepts
Postman Web runs inside a browser
Postman Desktop is a native application
Desktop Agent enables advanced features for Web version
Both support collections, environments, and testing
? Syntax / Theory
Both Postman Web and Desktop App use the same core concepts such as requests, collections, environments, and scripts. However, access to system-level features depends on the platform being used.
? Code Example(s)
? View Code Example
// Sample API test script used in both Web and Desktop Postman
pm.test("Status code is 200", function () {
pm.response.to.have.status(200);
});
? Live Output / Explanation
Explanation
This script checks whether the API response status code is 200. It works the same way in both Postman Web and Desktop App, demonstrating that test scripts are platform-independent.
? Interactive Example / Visual Explanation
Postman Web requires a Desktop Agent to send requests to local servers, whereas the Desktop App can directly access local APIs, files, and system resources. Try the simulator below:
? Architecture Simulator: Hitting Localhost
Chrome / Firefox BrowserTarget: Localhost
GEThttp://localhost:3000/api/users
Browsers have strict security (CORS) that blocks requests to localhost by default.
? Use Cases
Postman Web: Quick testing on shared or restricted systems
Postman Desktop: Full-featured API development and debugging
Team collaboration using shared workspaces
✅ Advantages & Limitations
Postman Web Advantages: No installation, accessible anywhere
Postman Web Limitations: Requires Desktop Agent for local APIs
Desktop App Advantages: Full system access, faster performance
Desktop App Limitations: Requires installation
? Tips & Best Practices
Use Desktop App for heavy API development
Use Web version for quick access or demos
Keep collections synced with your Postman account
? Try It Yourself
Create the same API request in both Web and Desktop
Test a local API using Desktop Agent vs Desktop App