Static application security testing (SAST) is a type of security testing that relies on inspecting the source code of an application. In general, SAST and application security testing services detect critical vulnerabilities within systems such as SQL injection, buffer overflow, and cross-site scripting and involves looking at the ways the code is designed to pinpoint possible security flaws.
SAST is often contrasted with another term that is, in some ways, opposite to it: dynamic application security testing (DAST). The difference between these two is that, with SAST, testers read the source code. They look for logical flaws, such as a loophole in data control, something that a hacker could use to gain access to the system. In contrast, in DAST, testers do not look at the source code but perform behavioral testing instead.
IT experts also differentiate between the two using the terms “white box testing” and “black box testing.” SAST is white box testing because the source code for the application is available and transparent. That is what testers look at. In contrast, DAST is black box testing because the source code is not part of the equation. Instead, black box testers rely solely on the behavior of the application.
SAST tests are automated and deliver repeatable results, allowing you to break down the security hazards of micro services, mobile applications, desktop apps, and web. Most importantly, static application security testing allows you to scale without devoting additional resources, reducing overhead. With cloud-based SAST, where it is current and future proof mega trend, there is no need for in-house hardware, once against cutting down on maintenance.
Depend on the use case, context and scenario, Static application security testing (SAST), also related to binary static application security testing (where due to Intellectual Property copyright matter is viable to test under as binary for SAST), software composition analysis (SCA) – focus on 3rd party or open source libraries or plugin security testing, secure code review integrated into IDE environment (to facilitate developer for the secure coding productivity), and 3rd party vendor static application security testing (for scenario like outsourced development).
Feel free to contact E-SPIN for the various technology solution that can facilitate your static application security testing (SAST), binary static application security testing, mobile application security testing, software composition analysis (SCA), secure code review and automation/integration for DevSecOps and micro sites testing.
