👉 Overview
👀 What ?
Source code review or Static Application Security Testing (SAST) tools are software-based solutions that analyze source code or compiled versions of code to help identify security flaws. The fundamental concept behind SAST tools is the detection of vulnerabilities in a software system that could be exploited to compromise the system's security. SAST tools work by inspecting the source code at rest (i.e., non-runtime environment) to detect and report weaknesses that can lead to security vulnerabilities.
🧐 Why ?
The increasing reliance on software systems in every aspect of our daily lives has made securing these systems paramount. SAST tools help developers find and fix security vulnerabilities early in the development process, reducing the likelihood of security breaches and the associated costs. For our readers, understanding and utilizing SAST tools can help in maintaining a robust security posture by detecting security vulnerabilities before they can be exploited.
⛏️ How ?
To use SAST tools, typically you would first choose a tool that suits your needs (considering factors like the programming languages supported, cost, usability, etc.). Next, you would configure the tool according to your project requirements and then run the tool against your source code. The tool would then analyze the source code and generate a report detailing any security vulnerabilities found, often with advice on how to remediate them. Following the report, you would fix the detected vulnerabilities and then re-run the tool to ensure the vulnerabilities have been appropriately addressed.
⏳ When ?
SAST tools started gaining traction in the early 2000s as part of the shift towards more proactive approaches to software security. They are now widely used in modern software development processes, especially those following the DevSecOps model, where security is integrated into every stage of development.
⚙️ Technical Explanations
At a technical level, SAST tools work by examining the source code and looking for patterns or signatures that have been determined to be indicative of security vulnerabilities. They use various techniques such as data flow analysis, control flow analysis, and semantic analysis to understand the behavior of the software and identify potential vulnerabilities. The effectiveness of a SAST tool largely depends on the comprehensiveness of its vulnerability database, the sophistication of its analysis techniques, and its ability to minimize false positives and negatives. SAST tools are a powerful weapon in a developer's arsenal for maintaining secure code, but they are not a silver bullet and should be used as part of a comprehensive software security strategy.