What Is Static Application Security Testing (SAST)? A Full Guide
Learn the fundamentals of static application security testing and how the right SAST testing tools can help identify vulnerabilities early in the development process.
Updated May 14, 2025.
In the world of software development, security is an ongoing concern, and addressing vulnerabilities early is key to building reliable, safe applications. Static application security testing (SAST) offers a proactive approach by analyzing source code for potential security issues without executing the program.
By using SAST testing tools, developers can identify and resolve vulnerabilities before they become major risks, ensuring applications are secure from the start. This not only strengthens security but also reduces the cost and effort required to fix issues later in the development cycle.
In this guide, we’ll explore what SAST is, how it works, and how it compares to other methods like dynamic application security testing (DAST).
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What Is SAST?
Static application security testing (SAST) is a type of software testing aimed at identifying software vulnerabilities and is conducted or carried out without running or executing a program's source code.
SAST vs. DAST
| Category | SAST | DAST |
|---|---|---|
| Testing Approach | Testing is conducted without running or executing the program | Testing takes place only when the program is running or the code is executed |
| Testing Type | Considered white box testing because the tester has access and understanding of the logical structure of the source code | Considered black box testing because the tester doesn't have access to or knowledge of the source code |
| Language Requirement | No language translator is needed to carry out SAST | Requires a language translator like a compiler or interpreter |
| Integration in SDLC Workflows | Best used early in the development lifecycle before code deployment | Best used in later stages or after deployment to test real-world security risks |
| Compliance Support | Helps with compliance requirements like PCI DSS, ISO 27001, and SOC 2 by ensuring secure coding practices | Useful for penetration testing and regulatory compliance testing, including GDPR and HIPAA |
Take note: Interactive application security testing (IAST) falls under DAST because the application must be running—either manually by a tester or through an automated testing tool. This technology reports vulnerabilities in real time, meaning it does not add delays to your CI/.CD pipeline.
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6 Steps to Implement SAST
- Determine the objective of the test: Identify the security goals of the test, such as finding SAST vulnerabilities related to data exposure, injection flaws, or authentication weaknesses.
- Set up the environment: Prepare the environment where the source code resides, whether on-premises or in a repository like GitHub.
- Review the source code: Analyze the source code line by line, considering the language's syntax rules and secure coding practices (e.g., OWASP Top 10).
- Identify flaws: Detect security flaws like insecure API calls, hardcoded credentials, or weak encryption methods.
- Document the flaws: Record and tag the flaws for tracking by the code author.
- Provide constructive feedback: Offer feedback and recommendations to the code author, suggesting fixes and secure coding alternatives.
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The Core Principles for Detecting Security Vulnerabilities in Software
Input validation: This involves carefully examining user input to prevent injection attacks, such as SQL injection or cross-site scripting (XSS). It is done by sanitizing and validating data types and formats to ensure they are safe.
Secure coding practices: This principle focuses on adhering to established coding standards to address common vulnerabilities like buffer overflows, race conditions, and improper memory management, which can lead to security risks.
Access control: Proper access control ensures that only authorized users can access sensitive data and functionalities. This is achieved through appropriate user authentication and authorization mechanisms, which restrict access based on user roles and privileges.
Error handling: Proper error handling prevents sensitive information from being exposed through error messages. It also ensures that unexpected behaviors, which could be exploited by attackers, are avoided.
Vulnerability awareness: Staying updated on known vulnerabilities is crucial. Regularly scanning code for potential issues using tools and databases like the Common Vulnerabilities and Exposures (CVE) list helps identify vulnerabilities before they are exploited.
Static analysis: This involves analyzing the code without executing it. It helps identify potential security flaws in the source code structure, such as insecure function calls or mismatched data types, which could lead to vulnerabilities.
Dynamic analysis: Dynamic analysis tests the application in a runtime environment to identify vulnerabilities that may only appear during execution. This includes issues like improper input handling or insecure network interactions.
Penetration testing: Penetration testing simulates real-world attacks to actively identify vulnerabilities in the application. The goal is to attempt to breach security controls to uncover exploitable weaknesses.
CIA triad: The CIA Triad refers to the three core principles of security: confidentiality (protecting sensitive data), integrity (ensuring data accuracy), and availability (ensuring system access). These principles guide the design and review of security measures.
Learn more: Vulnerability scan vs. Penetration test
10 Types of Vulnerabilities Detected in SAST
SAST identifies a range of security vulnerabilities by analyzing source code without executing it. The OWASP Top 10 highlights the most common vulnerabilities that SAST tools focus on.
Broken access control: Insufficient enforcement of permissions results in unauthorized users gaining access to restricted resources or performing actions they shouldn't be able to.
Cryptographic failures: Weak or improper encryption algorithms expose sensitive data to attackers, making it easier for them to read or alter confidential information.
Injection (SQL, NoSQL, OS Command, etc.): Malicious input data can exploit system vulnerabilities, such as SQL injections, by injecting harmful code into an application’s query, leading to unauthorized data access or manipulation.
Insecure design: A lack of proper security planning in the application's design phase can result in vulnerabilities that are difficult or impossible to fix once the system is implemented.
Security misconfiguration: Improper configuration of systems and settings exposes applications to exploitation. These misconfigurations could be anything from default credentials to overly permissive access rights.
Vulnerable and outdated components: Using software libraries and components that are outdated or unpatched increases the risk of attacks, as known vulnerabilities in these components can be exploited.
Identification and authentication failures: Weak login mechanisms, such as poorly implemented passwords or improper session management, enable attackers to take over user accounts—explore our guide to fortifying against password spraying to learn more.
Software and data integrity failures: Attackers may alter software updates or data to spread malware, undermining the integrity of the system and the trustworthiness of software versions.
Security logging and monitoring failures: Missing or inadequate logs can delay the detection of a breach, allowing attackers to maintain access and carry out malicious activities undetected for longer periods.
Server-side request forgery (SSRF): Manipulated server requests enable attackers to access internal resources or services that would typically be inaccessible, potentially leading to a full compromise of the system.
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Language-Specific SAST Tools
Pylint
- Pylint is an open-source static code analysis tool for Python that checks for errors in Python code, enforces coding standards, and looks for potential vulnerabilities.
- It is highly customizable and can be integrated into most development workflows.
CodeChecker
- CodeChecker is an open-source tool that supports multiple programming languages and static analysis frameworks, often used for security testing in CI/CD pipelines.
- It integrates well with other tools to identify vulnerabilities and code quality issues.
ESLint
- ESLint is a widely-used, open-source static analysis tool for identifying and fixing problems in JavaScript code.
- It helps enforce coding standards and find potential errors or security vulnerabilities during development.
Checklist for choosing the right SAST tool:
- Flexibility (supports commenting, line referencing, and automation)
- Compatibility with multiple languages
- Integration with various frameworks
- User-friendly and interactive features
» Want to ensure secure development? Read our guide to SDL for Agile workflows
Best Practices for Integrating SAST Seamlessly Into the SDLC
- Familiarize yourself with the framework: Ensure that both testers and developers are well-versed in the SAST tools and frameworks being used and that they are compatible with the development environment. This ensures smooth integration into the workflow.
- Focus on constructive feedback: When providing feedback on security vulnerabilities, avoid criticizing the person responsible for the code. Instead, focus on specific issues and offer constructive guidance to address the flaws. This helps maintain a collaborative and positive work environment.
- Aim to improve the developer's skillset: The ultimate goal of SAST is not only to detect vulnerabilities but also to help developers refine their coding practices. It should be seen as a learning process to improve the overall quality and security of the code.
- Integrate SAST early in the software development lifecycle: Incorporating SAST from the early stages of the development lifecycle allows for early detection of vulnerabilities, reducing the risk of costly security issues emerging later. It should never be an afterthought but rather a proactive approach to security.
- Promote collaboration between developers and testers: Effective integration of SAST requires close collaboration between the code authors and testers. A strong communication channel ensures that vulnerabilities are identified and remediated quickly, fostering a culture of shared responsibility for code security.
- Effective SAST reporting: Ensure SAST reports are clear, objective, and helpful, especially when working with large codebases.
Take note: SAST alone isn't enough to ensure a secure development lifecycle. It works best alongside DAST to ensure error-free code and better overall application quality. It can be used in both DevSecOps and agile development, as testing the source code is important no matter the methodology.
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Secure Development, Simplified
GRSee can help you integrate security into your SDLC, ensuring vulnerabilities are addressed early for a stronger, safer development process.
How GRSee Can Support Your SAST Implementation
As AI and machine learning continue to transform security testing, SAST is evolving to become faster, more automated, and increasingly accurate, with advancements in technologies driving its evolution to meet modern security demands.
At GRSee Consulting, we are committed to helping you implement and optimize your security solutions. Our goal is to integrate these advanced tools seamlessly into your development process. By following best practices and staying ahead of industry trends, we ensure better security outcomes, reduced vulnerabilities, and a more efficient SDLC.
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