How SAST Works
SAST tools examine application source code line by line, comparing it against known vulnerability patterns and coding standards. This process identifies potential security flaws like SQL injection, cross-site scripting (XSS), and authentication weaknesses. Unlike dynamic testing, SAST doesn’t require the application to be running, making it suitable for early stages of development. SAST complements other testing approaches, such as dynamic application security testing (DAST) and interactive application security testing (IAST).
SAST in Australian Tenants Today
Many AU mid-market development teams leverage SAST tools within the Microsoft ecosystem. GitHub Advanced Security, powered by CodeQL, offers robust SAST capabilities, often integrated into Azure DevOps pipelines. A typical pattern involves developers committing code, triggering a CodeQL analysis, and receiving feedback within their IDE or through Azure DevOps work items. This aligns with the ACSC Essential Eight, particularly mitigation strategy 4 (application control) and 6 (security monitoring), by proactively reducing the attack surface. Compliance considerations like APRA CPS 234 also encourage secure development practices, which SAST can support.