Use Apache JMeter to simulate load on your website before making it public.

Here's how you can use JMeter for load testing your website before making it public:

1. Install and Set Up JMeter: Download and install Apache JMeter on your machine. JMeter is a Java application, so you'll need to have Java installed as well.
2. Create a Test Plan: In JMeter, you create a test plan which outlines the scenarios and behaviors you want to simulate during the load test. This includes defining HTTP requests, user actions, parameters, and assertions.
3. Configure Thread Groups: Thread groups represent groups of users that will simulate accessing your website. You can configure the number of threads (concurrent users), ramp-up period, and loop count within each thread group.
4. Add HTTP Requests: Add HTTP Request Samplers to simulate the various requests that your users will make to your website. This can include accessing specific pages, submitting forms, or interacting with APIs.
5. Add Listeners: Listeners in JMeter collect and display the results of your load test. You can add listeners such as Summary Report, View Results Tree, or Aggregate Report to analyze response times, throughput, and error rates.
6. Configure Assertions: Assertions allow you to verify that your website is behaving as expected under load. You can add assertions to check for specific content, response codes, or performance thresholds.
7. Run the Test: Once your test plan is configured, you can run the load test in JMeter. JMeter will simulate the specified number of users accessing your website and record the performance metrics.
8. Analyze Results: After the load test completes, analyze the results using the listeners you added. Look for performance bottlenecks, errors, or areas where your website may need optimization.

By performing load testing with JMeter before making your website public, you can identify and address potential performance issues, ensure that your website can handle expected traffic levels, and improve the overall user experience.

https://jmeter.apache.org/