What is SAST (Static Application Security Testing)?

In today’s digital landscape, the development of secure and functional software is of utmost importance. To achieve this, enterprises are turning to Static Application Security Testing (SAST), a critical methodology that scrutinizes an application’s source code for vulnerabilities during its development cycle. This proactive approach ensures that security flaws are identified and addressed before they can become a potential threat to your enterprise. In this article, we will delve into the world of SAST, exploring what it is, its benefits, drawbacks, and how it compares to Dynamic Application Security Testing (DAST).

Understanding SAST

SAST, or Static Application Security Testing, involves analyzing an application’s source code to pinpoint security vulnerabilities before they can harm your enterprise. SAST tools and scanners operate in the early stages of software development, enabling developers to identify and rectify security issues even before the application is fully compiled. This approach offers real-time feedback and facilitates the quick identification of vulnerabilities, streamlining the development process.

Benefits of SAST

SAST offers several advantages over other security testing methods:

1. Fast Scanning: SAST tools can analyze an application’s entire codebase quickly, allowing seamless integration into the development cycle.

2. Higher Accuracy: Machines excel at identifying vulnerabilities like cross-site scripting, buffer overflows, and SQL injection more reliably and swiftly than human programmers.

3. Real-Time Reporting: SAST tools provide precise details about code issues, simplifying the troubleshooting process and reducing development time.

4. Wide Language Compatibility: SAST tools are available for various programming languages and platforms, ensuring compatibility with most development environments.

Disadvantages of SAST:

While SAST is a valuable tool, it comes with some downsides:

1. Risk of False Positives: SAST tools may produce false-positive reports, requiring developers to assess flagged errors individually.

2. Outdated Reports: Static reports generated by SAST tools become quickly outdated, necessitating multiple scans throughout development.

3. Inability to Detect Running Vulnerabilities: SAST tools are ineffective at identifying vulnerabilities that only appear when an application is active, such as deserialization vulnerabilities.

4. Specific Tools for Different Languages: Each application language or platform may require a specific SAST tool, potentially increasing costs and complexity.

Differences Between SAST and DAST

Dynamic Application Security Testing (DAST) is the counterpart to SAST, offering a different approach. DAST tools focus on external assessments and are ideal for identifying security vulnerabilities in deployed applications. While both SAST and DAST are valuable, they serve distinct purposes and are best used in conjunction to provide comprehensive security coverage.

When to Use Each Tool

SAST is best employed early in the development cycle, allowing for the swift resolution of vulnerabilities. DAST is more suitable for identifying security issues in deployed applications, particularly those with dynamic and complex vulnerabilities.

Incorporating SAST

To effectively implement SAST, follow these steps:

1. Select a tool compatible with your programming languages.

2. Ensure the tool supports the underlying frameworks used in your software.

3. Set up scanning infrastructure, secure resources, and establish access controls.

4. Customize the tool’s controls and rules to target specific vulnerabilities.

5. Prioritize high-risk applications for scanning.

6. Analyze scan results and address flagged issues.

7. Schedule regular SAST scans throughout the development lifecycle.

Best SAST Tools: Several excellent SAST tools are available, including:

1. Veracode: A comprehensive tool offering SAST, DAST, and Software Composition Analysis capabilities, with customization options for developers.

2. AppScan: A flexible tool suitable for testing web, mobile, and open-source software, offering management and reporting features.

3. Coverity Scan: This tool provides SAST and DAST, as well as support for scanning vulnerabilities across multiple programming languages.

In conclusion, Static Application Security Testing is a crucial component of securing your applications during development. When used alongside Dynamic Application Security Testing, SAST tools play a pivotal role in fortifying your software against potential threats and ensuring the delivery of high-quality applications. Embrace SAST as an integral part of your development process to protect your enterprise from security vulnerabilities.