The term "DAST" is an acronym that stands for "Dynamic Application Security Testing." It refers to a process or method used for evaluating the security of computer software applications. DAST involves the dynamic analysis and testing of an application while it is running, imitating actions an attacker might take to identify potential vulnerabilities and weaknesses.
DAST aims to uncover security flaws and vulnerabilities such as authorization issues, input validation problems, session management weaknesses, and access control flaws. This testing methodology simulates realistic attack scenarios and evaluates the application's ability to withstand real-world threats.
The DAST process typically involves automated tools that scan the application by sending various inputs, analyzing the responses, and searching for potential security flaws. These tools may employ techniques such as fuzzing, where random or malformed data is inputted to identify insecure code handling practices.
By conducting DAST, security professionals and developers can proactively evaluate and mitigate potential security risks before deploying an application to production. It aids in ensuring the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of the application, protecting user data, and minimizing the likelihood of successful cyber attacks.
In summary, DAST is a comprehensive method for assessing and improving the security posture of software applications. It helps identify vulnerabilities and weaknesses in real-time, enabling organizations to strengthen their applications and protect against potential threats.
