Top 10 DAST Tools in 2024

A Dynamic Application Security Testing (DAST) tool or DAST scanning tool is a specialized software designed to identify vulnerabilities in applications while they are running. It actively interacts with the application during its execution to detect potential security flaws. This blog explores the best DAST tools, their importance for organizations, key factors in selecting the right tool, and the top DAST Tools.

Let’s get started!

What are DAST Tools?

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DAST tools are essential for identifying security vulnerabilities in web applications and APIs while they are actively running. These tools simulate real-world attacks to uncover potential weaknesses that could be exploited by malicious actors.

DAST tools begin by automatically crawling the web application. During this process, they inject different inputs, such as specific characters or scripts, into forms to mimic how an attacker might exploit vulnerabilities. As the DAST tool interacts with the web application, it analyzes the traffic and responses.

Based on attack simulations and traffic analysis, DAST tools identify weak points in the web application, including poor coding practices, configuration errors, or logical faults that attackers could exploit.

Why Do Organizations Need DAST Tools?

In today's rapidly evolving cybersecurity landscape, organizations must prioritize robust security testing for their web applications. Let's explore the key reasons why DAST scanning tools have become an essential component of modern security testing strategies.

Here are more compelling reasons to include DAST tools in the web application testing regime:

Identify security vulnerabilities in web applications

DAST tools function as advanced scanning assistants that detect vulnerabilities hackers could exploit to access web applications. Threat modeling helps address security deficiencies and ensure organizations eliminate vulnerabilities proactively.

Simulate realistic attacks

Dynamic Application Security Testing tools replicate real-world scenarios, showing how attackers might find and exploit vulnerabilities in web applications. This simulation is crucial for identifying potential attack paths and determining effective remediation measures.

Mitigate security breach risks

Given the prevalence of web application attacks, organizations should use Dynamic Application Security Testing tools to reduce the risk of security data breaches. By addressing vulnerabilities that DAST identifies, organizations protect sensitive information and maintain customer and stakeholder trust.

Ensure compliance with security standards

Many industries require adherence to strict security regulations like GDPR, HIPAA, and PCI DSS. DAST tools help organizations meet these requirements by identifying compliance gaps and providing actionable insights to address them effectively.

Improve DevSecOps integration

Organizations can seamlessly integrate DAST tools into the DevSecOps pipeline, enabling continuous testing and early detection of vulnerabilities during the development process. This proactive approach reduces the cost of remediation and ensures secure deployment of web applications.

How to choose the right DAST Tool?

Choosing the correct DAST tool is essential for improving application security and addressing problems effectively. Understanding important factors such as compatibility, scalability, and integration can help security engineers make informed decisions that match the objectives of their organization.

Understand the application environment

When choosing a DAST tool, ensure that it is compatible with the specific technologies and frameworks that the security team uses, such as APIs, web applications, or microservices. A tool that works in the required conditions ensures thorough and accurate vulnerability scanning.

Evaluate scalability

A suitable DAST tool must be able to handle increasing application demands and workloads. It should retain performance and accuracy even when the number of apps or the complexity of environments grows.

Check integration capabilities

The tool should interact seamlessly with existing security and development workflows, such as CI/CD pipelines and version control systems. This makes it possible to include vulnerability detection throughout the development lifecycle.

Concentrate on ease of use

An intuitive interface is essential for efficient vulnerability management. A DAST solution should make it easier to configure scans, analyze results, and provide actionable reports, allowing security engineers to respond quickly.

Evaluate reporting features

Reporting features are essential when choosing the correct Dynamic Application Security Testing tool. Security teams need detailed reports that categorize vulnerabilities by severity and provide clear solutions to prioritize and address essential concerns effectively.

Top 10 DAST Tools in 2024

1. Akto API Security Platform - Comprehensive API Security and testing platform

2. Burp Suite - Application security testing software

3. OWASP ZAP - Web Application Scanner

4. Veracode - Cloud based Application security platform

5. Netsparker - Web vulnerability management tool

6. Acunetix - Web Application and API security scanner

7. AppSpider - Dynamic application security testing solution

8. HCL AppScan - Advanced Application Security testing solution

9. WebInspect - Dynamic application security testing tool

10. Qualys WAS - Web Application Scanning & API Security solution

As organizations increasingly prioritize cybersecurity, having the right security testing tools is crucial. Let's explore the list of DAST tools that can help secure web applications through comprehensive vulnerability assessment and testing.

1. Akto API Security Platform

Akto is a top DAST tool, offering comprehensive security testing capabilities and seamless integration with development pipelines. It excels at detecting vulnerabilities early in the development process, ensuring robust application security.

Key features include automated scans, real-time vulnerability detection, detailed reporting, and easy integration with CI/CD workflows. Akto also supports various authentication methods, making it suitable for diverse application environments.

Pricing

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Akto offers flexible pricing plans to accommodate various organizational needs:

• Free Plan: This plan is perfect for individuals or small teams looking to experiment with Akto's features or conduct light API security testing. It provides support for up to 25 API endpoints per month and allows 12,500 tests monthly. With limited scalability, this plan suits early-stage developers or organizations exploring API security without significant costs.

• Professional Plan: Targeted at growing businesses with moderate API security needs, this plan costs $490 per month. It accommodates up to 100 API endpoints and allows up to 200,000 tests per month. This tier includes features that help automate API security processes for mid-sized teams, offering a balance between affordability and functionality.

• Enterprise Plan: Designed for large-scale enterprises with complex and critical API security demands, this plan offers advanced customization options, enhanced scalability, and premium features. Although security engineers can request pricing for this plan, the plan is tailored to organizations that require extensive API testing capabilities and robust support.

2. Burp Suite

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Burp Suite dominates the DAST landscape with its powerful scanning features, extensive customization options, and robust vulnerability detection. Security engineers rely on its interactive scanning and manual testing capabilities to find and exploit security flaws effectively.

Burp Suite offers advanced features such as spidering, intruder, repeater, sequencer, and extender, allowing security engineers to perform thorough security assessments. It also supports various extensions that enhance its functionality.

Pricing

Burp Suite offers two primary editions, Professional and Enterprise, each tailored to different security testing needs.

Burp Suite Professional is designed for hands-on security testers and penetration testers. Burp Suite offers it through an annual subscription priced at $449 per user. Each user requires an individual subscription, as sharing between multiple users is not permitted.

Burp Suite Enterprise Edition caters to organizations seeking scalable, automated scanning across numerous applications. This edition allows for unlimited users per license, with pricing based on specific scanning requirements and the number of websites to be secured. For detailed pricing information, organizations are encouraged to contact PortSwigger directly to receive a tailored quote.

3. OWASP ZAP

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OWASP ZAP excels in providing a user-friendly interface, continuous updates, and a wide range of plugins to enhance security testing. It offers both automated and manual scanning options, making it a versatile tool for application security engineers.

Key features include passive and active scanning, spidering, fuzzing, and scripting support. OWASP ZAP also integrates with popular development tools and CI/CD pipelines, ensuring seamless security testing throughout the development lifecycle.

Pricing

OWASP Zed Attack Proxy (ZAP) freely provides access for use without any associated licensing fees. Users can download and utilize ZAP's full features at no cost, making it an accessible option for both individuals and organizations aiming to enhance their web application security.

4. Veracode

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Veracode impresses with its cloud-based platform, deep scanning capabilities, and detailed reporting features that help security teams identify and fix vulnerabilities. It integrates seamlessly with various development tools, providing real-time feedback and ensuring continuous security assessment.

Veracode's key features include static and dynamic analysis and software composition analysis. It also offers detailed remediation guidance and a comprehensive dashboard for monitoring application security.

Pricing

Veracode does not publicly disclose specific pricing information on its official website. Pricing for Veracode's application security solutions varies based on factors such as the size of the organization, the number of applications to be scanned, and the specific services required. To obtain a tailored quote that aligns with the organization's needs, teams can request a quote directly through Veracode's official channels.

5. Netsparker

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Netsparker delivers accurate vulnerability detection with its advanced scanning engine, automation features, and seamless integration with CI/CD pipelines. Its unique proof-based scanning approach reduces false positives, enabling security engineers to focus on real security threats.

Key features include automated crawling, vulnerability confirmation, extensive reporting, and support for a wide range of web technologies. Netsparker also provides a user-friendly interface and integration with issue-tracking systems.

Pricing

Netsparker, now known as Invicti, offers tailored pricing for its web application security scanner based on the specific needs of each organization. To obtain detailed and accurate pricing information, it's recommended to contact Invicti directly through their official website. Their sales team can provide a customized quote that aligns with the organization's requirements.

6. Acunetix

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Acunetix offers a comprehensive security testing solution featuring advanced scanning algorithms, interactive reporting, and easy integration with development workflows. It provides detailed vulnerability assessments and actionable insights to enhance application security.

Key features include automated scanning, advanced crawling, and integration with popular CI/CD tools. Acunetix also supports various authentication methods and provides a detailed dashboard for monitoring security status.

Pricing

Acunetix offers tailored pricing based on the specific needs of the organization, considering factors such as the number of websites, web applications, and APIs teams intend to scan. To obtain a customized quote that aligns with the requirements, it's recommended to contact Acunetix directly through their official pricing page.

7. AppSpider

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AppSpider stands out with its dynamic scanning capabilities, interactive testing features, and detailed reports that help security engineers address security issues effectively. It supports various authentication methods, making it suitable for testing complex applications.

Key features include automated and manual testing, comprehensive vulnerability detection, detailed reporting, and integration with CI/CD pipelines. AppSpider also offers a user-friendly interface and extensive documentation for ease of use.

Pricing

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Rapid7's AppSpider’s specific pricing details are not publicly listed on Rapid7's official website. However, Rapid7 offers a suite of security products with transparent starting costs. For instance, their InsightAppSec solution, which provides web application security testing, starts at $175 per month per application.

To obtain accurate and current pricing information for AppSpider, it's recommended to contact Rapid7 directly. They can provide a tailored quote based on the organization's specific needs and requirements.

8. HCL AppScan

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HCL AppScan provides extensive scanning capabilities, integration with various development tools, and robust reporting features to enhance application security. It offers both static and dynamic analysis, ensuring comprehensive coverage of potential vulnerabilities.

Key features include automated scanning, vulnerability management, detailed reporting, and integration with popular development tools. HCL AppScan also supports multiple languages and frameworks, making it suitable for diverse application environments.

Pricing

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HCL AppScan provides a comprehensive suite of application security testing solutions, with pricing structures that vary based on deployment models and organizational needs. For instance, HCL AppScan on Cloud offers a pay-per-scan option priced at $268.97 USD per scan, with a minimum purchase requirement of five scans, granting a one-year subscription.

For other products within the AppScan portfolio, such as HCL AppScan Standard, Enterprise, and Source, specific pricing details are not publicly disclosed. These costs depend on factors like the number of users, deployment scale, and specific organizational requirements. To obtain accurate and tailored pricing information, it is recommended to contact HCL Software directly or consult with an authorized HCL AppScan reseller. They can provide detailed quotes aligned with the organization's specific needs.

9. WebInspect

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WebInspect impresses with its thorough scanning engine, detailed vulnerability reports, and seamless integration with security operations centers. It supports a wide range of technologies and frameworks, making it a versatile tool for enterprise-level security testing.

Key features include automated scanning, advanced crawling, detailed reporting, and integration with popular development tools. WebInspect also provides continuous monitoring and real-time alerts to ensure proactive security management.

Pricing

Micro Focus does not publicly disclose specific pricing details for Fortify WebInspect on their website. Pricing for this dynamic application security testing tool varies based on factors such as deployment scale, licensing model, and organizational requirements.

To obtain accurate and tailored pricing information, it's recommended to contact Micro Focus directly or reach out to an authorized reseller. They can provide a customized quote that aligns with the organization's specific needs and budget considerations.

Akto’s Recommendation

While WebInspect delivers exceptional scanning capabilities, Akto complements it by providing automated API discovery and mapping shadow APIs, which are often overlooked during traditional scanning processes. Additionally, Akto’s runtime vulnerability detection ensures real-time identification of issues like misconfigurations and broken object-level authorization (BOLA), addressing API-specific security concerns that WebInspect might not prioritize.

10. Qualys WAS

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Qualys WAS offers a cloud-based platform, comprehensive scanning capabilities, and detailed reporting features to help organizations identify and mitigate security risks effectively. It provides continuous monitoring and real-time alerts, ensuring proactive security management.

Key features include automated scanning, detailed reporting, integration with popular development tools, and support for various web technologies. Qualys WAS also offers a user-friendly interface and extensive documentation for ease of use.

Pricing

Pricing for Qualys WAS depends on several factors, including the number of web applications, IP addresses, and user licenses required. Qualys offers flexible subscription plans tailored to various organizational needs, with options for small businesses and enterprises alike.

For small businesses, Qualys provides security packages designed to meet unique demands, offering low total cost of ownership and flexible pricing. These packages include features like vulnerability management, detection and response, patch management, and endpoint security.

To obtain a precise quote tailored to the organization's specific requirements, it's recommended to contact Qualys directly.

Final Thoughts

Utilizing the DAST technologies will ensure the application security. The solutions listed above can solve a wide range of security challenges, from web apps and APIs to enterprise-level applications. These DAST tools meet a variety of organizational demands, including real-time scanning, easy integration, and in-depth vulnerability research.

Akto API Security Platform distinguishes itself in API-driven applications with real-time vulnerability detection and smooth integration into DevSecOps workflows. Akto's proactive approach to API security guarantees that it constantly secures applications against potential attacks, making it an excellent solution for modern organizations wishing to improve their security posture. Schedule a Demo Now!

Important Links

• Top 10 API Security Tools

• Top 10 API Security Testing Tools

• Top 10 API Discovery Tools

• API Discovery Solutions