What does SAST primarily analyze?

SAST, or Static Application Security Testing, primarily analyzes application source code and potentially its binaries to identify vulnerabilities without executing the program. This technique is used during the development phase, allowing developers to find and fix security issues early in the software development lifecycle.

The ability to analyze application source code means SAST tools can thoroughly examine the programming logic, control flow, data flow, and security design of the application before it is compiled or executed. This helps in identifying common coding flaws, security misconfigurations, and other vulnerabilities that could lead to security breaches if left unaddressed.

While binaries can be involved in some SAST approaches, the core focus is on the source code itself, as it is the primary medium through which security vulnerabilities are introduced during the coding process. By emphasizing the examination of the source code, SAST tools enable developers to establish secure coding practices and create more secure applications from the outset.