# 02 - Postman Intro

In this module, we'll introduce Postman, a tool for testing our back-end as we build it.

## About Postman

Building a back-end is a little more abstract than building a front-end. In a web application, we can see changes as we make them: a color, a button, an image. With the back-end, we need a way to test our code as we build it to ensure that we are on the right track. Postman is a great tool for that job.

## Helpful Features

Postman provides back-end developers with an enormous amount of value, including the following items:

1. Ability to test endpoints.
2. Can fully log in to an application and save data to a database without needing sign in or sign up forms.&#x20;
3. Code can be written and run directly inside postman to control external servers, devices, etc.
4. Collections of API endpoints can be saved and tested simultaneously.

## Install

1. Go to [getpostman.com](https://www.getpostman.com/).&#x20;
2. Click `Download the App`.
3. Choose your platform, Windows or Mac.
4. The download should begin. Follow the steps until you have the app opened.
5. Be sure to pin the app in to your toolbar/ribbon. You will be using it extensively in these lessons and in the future.
