Frequently Asked Questions
General & Philosophy
What is Xplorer?
Xplorer is a secure, local-first API collection runner designed for developers and enterprises who prioritize data privacy. It functions as a desktop application for making API calls and running existing API collections.
What makes Xplorer different from Postman, Insomnia, and other API clients?
The distinguishing factor centers on local-first operation. Xplorer runs entirely on your machine rather than relying on cloud infrastructure, meaning your collections and secrets never sync to remote servers. Additional differentiators include no account requirements, no telemetry collection, no feature interruptions, and unlimited local test executions.
Who is Xplorer for?
The tool targets developers, QA engineers, and teams requiring secure API clients, particularly those in enterprise settings with stringent privacy requirements.
Security & Privacy
How does Xplorer handle my data and API secrets?
Data remains exclusively on your local filesystem. Nothing is ever transmitted to Karate Labs or any third-party server.
Do you collect any telemetry or usage data?
No. We do not collect any analytics, telemetry, or usage data.
Features & Functionality
What platforms does Xplorer support?
The application supports Mac, Windows, and Linux with signed builds for each platform.
Can I import my collections from Postman?
Yes, Xplorer supports importing existing Postman collections with zero required modifications.
Does Xplorer handle Environment Variables and Pre & Post Scripts from Postman?
Yes, these capabilities form core functionality available in the free version.
How does Xplorer handle API chaining?
The tool emulates Postman's behavior, allowing multi-request collections where requests depend on each other or use variables from prior requests.
Does Xplorer help migrate Postman collections to Karate tests?
The primary focus is running existing Postman collections rather than performing migrations. A future free migration option is planned, though manual effort will likely be necessary.
Does Xplorer support other formats like OpenAPI/Swagger, cURL, or HAR?
Yes, standard formats are supported for importing existing workflows and assets.
Pricing & Licensing
How much does Xplorer cost?
Xplorer is perpetually free for its core features. The free version includes running Postman collections, environment variable support, pre- and post-request JavaScript support, and unlimited local runs.
What is the paid upgrade for?
Estimated at $200 annually per user, paid upgrades will include debugging, parallel execution, hybrid CI/CD capabilities, performance testing, OpenAPI/Swagger import, browser-based recording, and LLM integration.
Getting Started & Support
Where can I download Xplorer?
Downloads are available from the official website at karatelabs.io/xplorer.
Where can I find the documentation?
You're reading it. Start with the Installation and Quick Start guides.