10 Essential Steps for Web Application Security Testing

 



Every organization today relies on web applications — for communication, customer interaction, and business operations. But as digital dependence grows, so does the risk. Cybercriminals are constantly on the lookout for weak points to exploit, and even large enterprises aren’t immune.

In 2020, Microsoft suffered a major data leak that exposed over 250 million customer records, serving as a clear reminder that no one is completely safe online. Despite this, research from IBM revealed that half of breached organizations don’t increase their cybersecurity spending — a risky oversight that often leads to repeated incidents.

The truth is, web application security doesn’t have to be complex or expensive. With the right tools and approach, like those offered by Jit, organizations can simplify testing, identify vulnerabilities early, and maintain compliance with global standards.

In this guide, we’ll break down what Web Application Security Testing (WAST) really means, explore its main types, and detail 10 essential steps to keep your applications protected from cyber threats.

What Is Web Application Security Testing (WAST)?

Web Application Security Testing (WAST) is the process of identifying, evaluating, and fixing vulnerabilities within web applications to ensure they remain secure against cyberattacks.

It focuses primarily on the application layer, assessing how data is handled, stored, and transmitted — covering everything from authentication and authorization to input/output validation and server configuration.

In simple terms, WAST ensures that your web apps are built to withstand real-world attack scenarios before they ever reach malicious actors.

Why Web Application Security Testing Is Critical

With cyberattacks becoming more frequent and sophisticated, skipping web app security testing is no longer an option. Here’s why it’s essential:

  • Protects sensitive data from theft, misuse, and leaks.

  • Prevents financial loss by identifying vulnerabilities early.

  • Ensures regulatory compliance with standards such as PCI-DSS, HIPAA, and SOC 2.

  • Enhances customer confidence through demonstrable security measures.

Simply put, investing in regular testing today prevents costly breaches tomorrow.

Types of Web Application Security Testing

1. Static Application Security Testing (SAST)

SAST reviews the application’s source code before it’s deployed. It identifies issues like SQL injection, cross-site scripting (XSS), and CSRF attacks at the earliest stage of development.
Tools like Bandit or Jit-integrated SAST make it easier to embed automated scanning directly into your coding workflow.

2. Dynamic Application Security Testing (DAST)

DAST runs real-world simulations to detect runtime vulnerabilities while the app is active. It identifies issues like misconfigured servers and weak application settings that can’t be seen in static code analysis.
Popular tools like OWASP ZAP and Legitify are often used to perform DAST effectively.

3. Runtime Application Self-Protection (RASP)

RASP acts as a real-time guard within the application, detecting and blocking attacks as they happen. It’s a powerful last line of defense that protects against runtime threats that slip through other layers.

4. Penetration Testing

Penetration testing uses ethical hacking techniques to mimic actual cyberattacks. Conducted by security experts, this testing helps uncover hidden flaws and gives organizations insights into how real attackers might exploit weaknesses.

10 Essential Steps for Effective Web Application Security Testing

1. Define the Testing Scope

Before you start, clearly define which applications, systems, and components need to be tested.
A well-defined scope ensures you focus on the most critical assets and avoid wasting resources.

2. Implement Tools Across All Resources

Each security tool serves a unique purpose. Consistent integration across all systems ensures full coverage and efficient monitoring.
Solutions like Jit simplify this process by centralizing tool management within your CI/CD pipeline.

3. Embed Security into the SDLC (SSDLC)

Security should be built into every stage of development — from planning and coding to deployment and maintenance.
An SSDLC ensures security checks aren’t an afterthought but a natural part of the process.

4. Conduct a Risk Assessment

Evaluate potential threats and vulnerabilities to understand their impact.
This helps prioritize high-risk areas and allocate resources where they’re needed most.

5. Train Developers in Secure Coding

Your developers are the foundation of application security. Providing them with regular, hands-on training helps them recognize vulnerabilities, write secure code, and understand real-world threats.
Platforms like Jit even provide in-context remediation tips directly within code reviews.

6. Apply Multiple Layers of Security

No single layer can guarantee protection. Combine methods such as SAST, DAST, RASP, and penetration testing for comprehensive coverage throughout the application lifecycle.

7. Automate Repetitive Security Tasks

Automation saves time and improves consistency. Use automated scans, compliance checks, and vulnerability assessments to reduce manual effort and catch issues early.

8. Patch and Update Regularly

Outdated software is one of the most common entry points for cyberattacks.
Keep your systems, frameworks, and third-party integrations up to date to close known vulnerabilities.

9. Adopt Continuous Security Monitoring

Traditional defenses like firewalls aren’t enough anymore.
Continuous monitoring provides real-time visibility into potential threats and anomalies, allowing teams to respond proactively instead of reactively.

10. Document and Review Results

Maintain detailed records of your testing processes, findings, and corrective actions.
Tracking metrics like Mean Time to Recovery (MTTR) and Change Failure Rate (CFR) helps improve long-term security performance and regulatory compliance.

Conclusion

Cybersecurity isn’t a one-time effort — it’s a continuous commitment. As the threat landscape evolves, so must your testing strategy.



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