What is DAST used for?

DAST is a security testing methodology used to identify vulnerabilities in web applications during runtime. Unlike static analysis, which examines source code, DAST interacts with applications from an external perspective, simulating real-world attacks to uncover security flaws. It is particularly effective in finding issues like SQL injection, cross-site scripting (XSS), and other runtime vulnerabilities that could be exploited by malicious actors. Dynamic Application Security Testing (DAST) tools work by scanning the application as it runs, examining the application’s responses to various inputs to detect potential security weaknesses. This approach helps organizations understand how their applications perform under attack conditions and ensures that security flaws are identified and addressed before they can be exploited. DAST is crucial for maintaining robust security postures, especially in dynamic and complex application environments.