What is Application Security Testing (AST)?

Application Security Testing (AST) refers to a set of practices, tools, and techniques used to detect and remediate vulnerabilities in software applications. In today’s threat landscape, where applications are a prime target for attackers, AST helps organizations secure their apps before, during, and after deployment.

With cloud adoption, open-source integration, and rapid DevOps cycles, securing applications manually has become nearly impossible. That’s why most organizations now rely on a blend of automated AST tools—offered by expert cybersecurity providers like Securis360.


Types of Application Security Testing Tools

Static Application Security Testing (SAST)

SAST is a white-box testing method that scans source code or binaries without executing the program. It identifies bugs like input validation errors, insecure data handling, and logic flaws early in the Software Development Lifecycle (SDLC).

Benefits:

  • Early bug detection in development.

  • No need to run the application.

  • Useful in CI/CD pipelines.

Use Case: Ideal during coding and pre-deployment stages.

Dynamic Application Security Testing (DAST)

DAST is a black-box testing approach where the application is tested during runtime, just like an attacker would. It checks for vulnerabilities in exposed interfaces like web pages, APIs, or databases.

Detects:

  • SQL injections

  • XSS vulnerabilities

  • Cookie/session mismanagement

  • Script execution issues

Use Case: Best for live, deployed applications to simulate real-world attacks.

Interactive Application Security Testing (IAST)

IAST combines SAST and DAST. It analyzes running applications from within the server to detect and confirm vulnerabilities in real time.

Advantages:

  • Pinpoints exact lines of vulnerable code.

  • Reduces false positives.

  • Tracks runtime data flow and logic flaws.

Use Case: Suitable for modern DevSecOps environments.

Mobile Application Security Testing (MAST)

MAST evaluates mobile apps using a mix of static, dynamic, and forensic methods. It’s tailored to mobile-specific risks like data leakage, weak encryption, and insecure APIs.

Checks for:

  • Jailbreak/root detection

  • Malicious app behavior

  • Data at rest and in transit security

Use Case: Recommended for Android/iOS apps in production or under development.

Software Composition Analysis (SCA)

SCA tools inspect open-source and third-party components in your software for known vulnerabilities.

Why it matters:

  • Most modern apps contain 60–90% open-source components.

  • SCA alerts you to outdated or vulnerable libraries.

Use Case: Critical for dependency management and licensing compliance.

Runtime Application Self-Protection (RASP)

RASP sits within your application and actively monitors runtime traffic to detect and prevent threats. It provides immediate, context-aware responses to attacks.

Key Capabilities:

  • Identifies zero-day threats.

  • Stops threats in real-time.

  • Requires no code changes.

Use Case: Ideal for critical, public-facing apps that require real-time protection.

🛠️ Application Security Testing Best Practices

1. Shift Security Left

Security should start early in the development lifecycle. Using AST tools during coding and testing phases helps catch issues before they reach production. This is the essence of DevSecOps—making security everyone's responsibility.

2. Test Internal and External Interfaces

Don’t just test public APIs or user-facing components. Internal systems, integrations, and service-to-service communications often become backdoors for attackers. Make sure those are tested rigorously.

3. Test Frequently

New threats emerge daily. Regular scans help maintain a secure posture. Integrate AST tools into CI/CD pipelines to detect vulnerabilities in real-time.

4. Evaluate Third-Party Code

Never assume third-party code is safe. Always scan dependencies, plugins, and external APIs for known vulnerabilities, and keep them up to date.

5. Choose the Right Mix of Tools

No single AST tool fits all needs. Use a combination—like SAST for early-stage code, DAST for production testing, and RASP for real-time monitoring.

Why Choose Securis360 for Application Security Testing?

Securis360 offers a robust portfolio of Application Security Testing solutions tailored for web, mobile, and cloud-native environments. Our offerings include:

  • Static and Dynamic Testing

  • Mobile Application Security

  • Software Composition Analysis

  • RASP-based runtime defense

  • Continuous vulnerability management and reporting

With a deep understanding of evolving threats, expert analysts, and automated toolchains, Securis360 helps you secure your software—from code to cloud.

Conclusion

Application Security Testing (AST) is not optional—it’s a necessity. With threats growing more sophisticated and regulations tightening, proactive testing helps you avoid breaches, secure sensitive data, and protect your brand reputation.

Whether you're developing a new product or managing a live application, Securis360 equips you with the tools, insights, and protection needed to build secure, compliant, and resilient applications.

FAQs

Q1: What is the difference between SAST and DAST?
SAST analyzes static code before the application runs, while DAST tests the application during execution from an external viewpoint.

Q2: How often should I run AST scans?
Ideally, with every major code change and at least monthly for production environments.

Q3: Do I need both SAST and DAST?
Yes. Together, they offer a comprehensive view of application security—both inside-out and outside-in.



Location: Australia

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