Dynamic Application Security Testing (DAST):
DAST tools interact with the running application from the outside, simulating attacks to identify security vulnerabilities.
They are particularly effective in identifying issues like SQL injection, XSS, CSRF, and other vulnerabilities in web applications.
DAST tools do not require access to the source code, making them suitable for black-box testing.
Advantages of DAST:
Real-World Testing: DAST simulates real-world attacks by interacting with the application in the same way a user would.
Comprehensive Coverage: Can identify vulnerabilities in all parts of the web application, including input fields, forms, and user interactions.
Automated Scanning: Automates the process of testing and identifying vulnerabilities, providing detailed reports on discovered issues.
Examples of DAST Tools:
OWASP ZAP (Zed Attack Proxy): An open-source DAST tool widely used for web application security testing.
Burp Suite: A popular commercial DAST tool that provides comprehensive scanning and testing capabilities.
Pentest References:
Web Application Testing: Understanding the importance of testing web applications for security vulnerabilities and the role of different testing methodologies.
Security Testing Tools: Familiarity with various security testing tools and their applications in penetration testing.
DAST vs. SAST: Knowing the difference between DAST (dynamic testing) and SAST (static testing) and when to use each method.
By using a DAST tool, the penetration tester can effectively identify all vulnerable input fields on the customer website, ensuring a thorough assessment of the application's security.
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