Common Security Testing Techniques
In the realm of software development, security testing is crucial for identifying vulnerabilities and ensuring the integrity of applications. Here are some common techniques employed in security testing:
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1. Static Application Security Testing (SAST)
SAST analyzes source code or binaries for vulnerabilities without executing the program. It helps identify weaknesses early in the development lifecycle.
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2. Dynamic Application Security Testing (DAST)
DAST tests a running application to find security vulnerabilities that attackers could exploit. It simulates real-world attacks to evaluate the application's defenses.
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3. Interactive Application Security Testing (IAST)
IAST combines aspects of SAST and DAST by analyzing application behavior during runtime. It provides more accurate results by monitoring internal application processes.
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4. Penetration Testing
This technique involves simulating attacks on the application to find exploitable vulnerabilities. Skilled testers, often referred to as ethical hackers, perform penetration tests.
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5. Security Code Review
A manual or automated review of the source code to identify security flaws. It helps in understanding code security practices and finding flaws that automated tools might miss.
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6. Vulnerability Scanning
This technique uses automated tools to discover known vulnerabilities in applications and systems. It's a proactive approach to maintain security in the development cycle.
Employing these techniques can lead to more robust and secure software, protecting organizations from potential threats.