There are many different types of application security testing (AST) tools on the market, and it can be difficult to decide which one is right for your business. In this blog post, we will discuss the pros and cons of SAST, DAST, and IAST tools, as well as the six principles of security testing. We’ll also list twelve of the best SAST and DAST tools available today. So, whether you are just starting out in application security or you are looking for an upgrade to your current toolset, this blog post is for you!
Contents
What is SAST?
SAST, or static application security testing, is a type of AST that examines source code for potential vulnerabilities. SAST tools analyze the code to look for errors and security issues that could be exploited by hackers. SAST is considered to be a low-risk, high-reward approach to application security, as it can help identify vulnerabilities early in the development process but does not require running tests on live applications.
Pros of SAST:
– Low-risk, high-reward approach to application security; identifies vulnerabilities early in the development process
– Does not require running tests on live applications
Cons of SAST:
– Cannot identify vulnerabilities that are introduced after code has been released
– Limited ability to identify vulnerabilities in dynamic content
What is DAST?
DAST, or dynamic application security testing, is a type of AST that tests live applications for vulnerabilities. DAST tools simulate real-world attacks against web apps to find security flaws. DAST is considered to be a high-risk, low-reward approach to application security, as it can identify serious vulnerabilities but also has the potential to cause system crashes and other disruptions.
Pros of DAST:
– High-risk, low-reward approach to application security; identifies serious vulnerabilities
– Can identify vulnerabilities that are introduced after code has been released
Cons of DAST:
– Can cause system crashes and other disruptions
– Limited ability to identify vulnerabilities in static content
What is IAST?
IAST, or interactive application security testing, is a type of AST that combines elements of both SAST and DAST. IAST tools use both static analysis and dynamic testing to identify vulnerabilities in live applications. IAST is considered to be a low-risk, high-reward approach to application security, as it can identify vulnerabilities early in the development process and does not require running tests on live applications.
Pros of IAST:
– Low-risk, high-reward approach to application security; identifies vulnerabilities early in the development process
– Does not require running tests on live applications
Cons of IAST:
– Cannot identify vulnerabilities that are introduced after code has been released
– Limited ability to identify vulnerabilities in static content
SAST vs. DAST vs. IAST
So, how do SAST, DAST, and IAST differ from each other? In short, SAST usually involves using a tool that examines source code for potential vulnerabilities, DAST uses automated tools that test running applications for vulnerabilities, and IAST uses a combination of static and dynamic analysis to identify vulnerabilities.
SAST is considered to be the most low-risk approach to application security, as it does not require running tests on live applications. DAST is considered to be the most high-risk approach to application security, as it can cause system crashes and other disruptions. IAST is considered to be the middle ground between SAST and DAST, as it combines the benefits of both approaches while avoiding their drawbacks.
Why is SAST important?
Because SAST identifies vulnerabilities early in the development process, it can help businesses avoid costly security breaches later on. By identifying potential vulnerabilities before they are released into the wild, SAST can help companies save time and money on remediation efforts.
Why is DAST important?
DAST is considered to be the most high-risk approach to application security, as it can cause system crashes and other disruptions. However, DAST also has the potential to identify serious vulnerabilities that may not be found with other types of testing. As such, DAST should only be used by businesses that are willing to accept the risk in order to gain the potential benefits.
Principles of Security Testing:
We have listed six principles to keep in mind while security testing:
- confidentiality
- integrity
- availability
- authentication
- authorization
- non-repudiation
These principles summarize the key goals of information security and help testers ensure that their tests cover all essential aspects of security.
Top 6 DAST tools
Commercial DAST tools:
- Astra Pentest
- HCL Appscan
- Nessus
Open-source DAST tools:
- OWASP ZAP
- Wapiti
- Nikto
These are some of the best penetration testing tools that are all widely used and respected in the industry, and offer a wide range of features and functionality.
Top 6 SAST tools
Commercial SAST tools:
- SecureAssist
- DeepSource
- CloudDefense
Open-source SAST tools:
- Flawfinder
- OWASP ASST
- HuskyCI
These tools offer a variety of features and benefits that make them well-suited for businesses of all sizes.
What to check before selecting/buying an automated security testing tool?
Before selecting or buying an automated security testing tool, businesses should check to make sure that the tool is:
- Easy to use
- Updated with the latest vulnerabilities
- Cost-effective
- The tool should also have features that satisfy the business’s specific requirements.
- Finally, the business should ensure that the vendor provides good support and guidance.
Conclusion
SAST, DAST, and IAST are all important tools for businesses looking to improve their application security posture. SAST is considered to be the most low-risk approach to application security, while DAST is considered to be the most high-risk approach. IAST is considered to be a middle ground between these two approaches.
All three types of testing have their own benefits and drawbacks, so businesses should carefully consider which approach is right for them. businesses should also check to make sure that the tool they select is easy to use, updated with the latest vulnerabilities, and cost-effective. The vendor should also provide good support and guidance. Selecting the wrong tool can be costly and time-consuming, so it is important to do your research before making a purchase.