Choosing DAST Tools for DevSecOps: A Guide

When it comes to web application security testing tools, there are different options available depending on what and how you are testing. However, for a comprehensive assessment of your running applications’ security status, dynamic application security testing (DAST) is highly recommended. DAST is designed to test websites and applications by simulating real attacks and identifying security vulnerabilities from an external perspective, providing valuable insights into potential entry points for malicious actors.

Choosing the right DAST tool for vulnerability scanning is crucial for securing your production environments effectively. Additionally, DAST can also be used for security scanning during the development process. So, do you need separate DAST tools for vulnerability management in production and for building secure software? Understanding what to look for in a DAST solution can help you differentiate between average tools that merely meet checkboxes and a robust product that empowers you to manage all your application security needs.

What are dynamic application security testing tools?

DAST tools, also known as vulnerability scanners, conduct security tests on running applications. They automate many steps involved in manual penetration testing and, if accurate and reliable, can establish a security baseline between manual tests. With a good DAST tool, security teams can avoid waiting for external test results or spending days manually verifying scan results. When integrated into a broader cybersecurity program, DAST tools enhance visibility into your security posture.

In addition to identifying security vulnerabilities, a reliable DAST scanner will provide precise details about the location of each issue and how the application responded to the test payload. This additional information is essential for expediting prioritization and remediation efforts. Some DAST tools can also integrate into the software development lifecycle, serving a dual purpose of scanning in production and conducting early testing during development.

DAST strengths to consider for DevSecOps

Among the various benefits offered by DAST, several key capabilities are vital for selecting the right vendor and product, especially when seeking DevSecOps tools that seamlessly fit into your CI/CD pipeline. If a vendor lacks proficiency in these areas or fails to provide clear information upon inquiry, it indicates that their DAST tool may not align with your application security objectives. Here’s a brief overview of essential DAST features – for a deeper dive, refer to our free web application security buyer’s guide.

SDLC integration

An effective security tool intended for use in a DevOps environment, fostering DevSecOps, must seamlessly integrate with automated workflows. This integration is particularly critical for DAST, which can be utilized at multiple stages of the development and operational processes.

From issue trackers to continuous integration and deployment tools, as well as web application firewalls, a DAST solution for DevSecOps should integrate with a variety of systems for both manual and automated utilization. To streamline manual integration efforts and deployment timelines, opt for solutions offering built-in workflow integrations with software already used in your SDLC. Additionally, inquire about an internal API from your DAST vendor to accommodate custom or bespoke systems.

Automated efficiency

DAST tools adopt a real-world threat perspective by conducting simulated attacks on running applications, enabling a comprehensive assessment of the application from a malicious hacker’s standpoint. This approach allows the scanner to identify potential entry points and vulnerabilities that might have evaded detection during code reviews or emerged post-deployment.

An efficient DAST tool can scan and rescan any subset of assets as needed, whether triggered automatically within a workflow, scheduled, or conducted as a one-time test. By automating testing procedures and providing prompt feedback, DAST scanners reduce the time spent by teams on manual data collection and security result verification.

Accuracy and depth

Modern web applications are complex and dynamic, necessitating a comprehensive approach for effective security testing. A top-tier DAST tool should delve beyond surface-level assessments by employing a full web browser engine to interact with the application, access every parameter, and conduct thorough testing. Look for a DAST tool offering extensive scanning and crawling capabilities, including authenticated scanning support to mitigate the risk of overlooking security vulnerabilities.

Some DAST scanners not only detect vulnerabilities but also offer additional features to provide a more accurate view of your risk landscape. Depending on the product, these features may include web asset discovery, identification of web technology stacks, dynamic software composition analysis (SCA) to pinpoint vulnerable open-source dependencies, and even interactive application security testing (IAST) functionality.

Technology-agnostic testing

One of the key strengths of DAST scanners is their versatility in testing any website or application, irrespective of the underlying technology stack or programming languages. DAST tools do not require access to source code for scanning an application – they should be capable of testing any application with a web interface.

Traditionally, some vulnerability scanners were geared towards static pages and offered limited support for JavaScript. A modern tool must be adept at running, crawling, and thoroughly testing scripting-intensive applications, including single-page applications (SPAs). Ensure to inquire specifically about a DAST tool’s capability to handle such applications.

Managing false positives

Conducting automated mock attacks on an application poses the risk of generating false positives, i.e., erroneous security alerts that necessitate manual evaluation by DevSecOps teams and developers.

While DAST scanners typically exhibit lower false positive rates compared to static application security testing (SAST) tools, they must employ measures to minimize false positives without compromising the scope of testing. When evaluating DAST solutions, seek automated verification mechanisms such as proof-based scanning, which promptly indicate directly exploitable results, instilling greater confidence in the scan outcomes.

Efficient security compliance

Meeting security risk-related regulatory obligations can pose challenges for organizations lacking accurate and reliable security tools. This challenge is particularly pronounced in industries like healthcare and the public sector, which necessitate ongoing compliance with specific regulations rather than addressing them solely during audits.

By leveraging a high-quality DAST tool offering compliance reporting for recognized standards like HIPAA or PCI DSS, organizations can streamline preparations for and adherence to application security requirements, making compliance management more manageable and cost-effective.

API security testing

Modern web applications heavily rely on APIs for data exchange and internal communication among app components. With a reported 400% surge in API attacks, ensuring API security is integral to bolstering comprehensive cybersecurity practices.

While many API security initiatives center on access restriction mechanisms, API vulnerability testing typically relies on manual assessments. A reliable DAST scanner should encompass API testing capabilities alongside GUI application testing, supporting prevalent API types, especially REST, various API specification file formats, and authentication methods, allowing you to scrutinize APIs for vulnerabilities akin to websites and applications.

Choosing the best DAST tools for DevSecOps success

Selecting the optimal DAST tool entails a considerate evaluation of your security, IT, and business requirements, as well as aligning with your development and security workflows. Security is an ongoing process, and a reputable vendor should exceed mere product offerings to become a trusted partner and advisor in your application security journey.

At Invicti, our expert setup and support resources ensure that you maximize the benefits of your DAST investment. By integrating automated security best practices into development processes, teams can focus on innovating and delivering cutting-edge applications for employees and customers.

Interested in witnessing Invicti’s premium DAST solution in action? Schedule a demo

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