Checkmarx SAST

Checkmarx Static Application Security Testing (SAST) manages identifying and mitigating security vulnerabilities early in the software development life cycle (SDLC). This tool analyzes source code, byte code, or application binaries without the need for execution, distinguishing it from dynamic testing methods like DAST.

The technical architecture of Checkmarx SAST involves scanning code for structural and data flow anomalies to detect potential security vulnerabilities such as SQL injection, cross-site scripting (XSS), insecure deserialization, and broken access control. It integrates into CI/CD pipelines, triggering scans on code commits, pull requests, or builds to provide immediate feedback to developers. This integration ensures early detection and remediation of security flaws, reducing the risk of vulnerabilities making it to production.

Key operational considerations include the use of presets and custom queries to minimize false positives and optimize scanning efficiency. Checkmarx SAST offers "Fast Scan Mode" and various presets tailored for regulatory compliance and specific development types, such as mobile or web applications. These features help in reducing noise and focusing on critical vulnerabilities, thereby building trust with developers and streamlining the remediation process.

However, there are limitations to consider. SAST tools do not execute code, so they may miss vulnerabilities tied to runtime behaviors. Additionally, they do not cover all aspects of development from code to cloud, necessitating the use of additional security solutions like container security and API security tools to ensure comprehensive security.

From a technical standpoint, Checkmarx SAST can conduct scans up to 90% faster with 80% lower false positives, significantly enhancing developer productivity and security outcomes. The tool also leverages AI to improve accuracy and reduce the total cost of ownership (TCO), making it more accessible and efficient for AppSec teams and developers alike.