15 Best DevSecOps Tools for Seamless Security in 2024

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DevSecOps tools incorporate security into the DevOps workflow, ensuring that security is integrated throughout the software development lifecycle (SDLC). These tools ensure that traditional continuous integration and continuous delivery/deployment (CI/CD) pipelines remain secure at all stages of the SDLC. They automate security checks, vulnerability scanning, compliance monitoring, and incident response.

To assist you in selecting the best DevSecOps tools for your needs, I’ve categorized and evaluated a broad range of application security testing tools, including static application security testing (SAST), dynamic and interactive analysis testing (DAST and IAST), software composition analysis (SCA), runtime application self protection (RASP), and automated testing tools.

Here are the 15 best DevSecOps tools:

Top Static Application Security Testing (SAST) Tools

  • Checkmarx: Best next-generation SAST engine
  • SonarQube: Best for extended code analysis and scanning
  • Snyk Code: Best developer-focused SAST tool

Top Dynamic/Interactive Application Security Testing (DAST/IAST) Tools

  • GitLab: Best for AI-powered workflows throughout the SDLC
  • Contrast Security: Best for real-time insights and quick remediation
  • Invicti Security: Best for combined dynamic and true interactive scanning

Top Runtime Application Self-Protection (RASP) Tools

  • Dynatrace: Best for real-time attack detection and blocking
  • Fortify: Best for third-party apps risk protections
  • Imperva RASP: Best for detecting and neutralizing zero-day attacks

Top Software Composition Analysis (SCA) Tools

Top DevSecOps Automated Testing Tools

Top DevSecOps Tools Comparison

This table compares each solution’s common DevSecOps features offerings and their pricing.

Vulnerability ScanningSecurity Policy EnforcementCompliance ManagementContainer SecurityMonthly cost
Checkmarx✔️✔️Contact sales
SonarQube✔️✔️$14+ per user
Snyk Code✔️$25+ per user
GitLab✔️✔️✔️$29+ per user
Contrast Security✔️✔️✔️Contact sales
Invicti Security✔️✔️Contact sales
Dynatrace✔️$1.60+ per GiB
Fortify✔️✔️Contact sales
Imperva RASP✔️Contact sales
Black Duck SCA✔️✔️$525+ per member
Veracode SCA✔️✔️✔️Contact sales
Mend.io✔️✔️$720+ per 25 developers
OWASP ZAP✔️Free
Red Hat Ansible Automation✔️Contact sales
ThreatModeler✔️✔️✔️Contact sales

✔️=Yes ❌=No/Unclear 

Top Static Application Security Testing (SAST) Tools

SAST tools check software source code for security flaws. They examine the codebase, enforce security policies, and detect potential risks early in the development process. SAST solutions automate code analysis, allowing developers to proactively resolve vulnerabilities, promote secure coding habits, and improve overall program security. If you’re looking for a dependable SAST tool, check out Checkmarx, Snyk, or SonarQube.

Checkmarx Best Next-Generation SAST Engine


Checkmarx is a next-generation SAST tool that performs quick, accurate security checks with up to 90% faster results and 80% fewer false positives. It incorporates security into the entire software development lifecycle, including containers, IaC, custom code, and open-source components, making it optimal for thorough AppSec testing in both on-premises (CxSAST) and cloud-native (Checkmarx One) scenarios.

  • Extensive language support
  • Automatically recommends fixes
  • Identifies diverse types of vulnerabilities

Cons

  • No free trial
  • Some scans take longer duration
  • Users repost tool integration difficulties
  • Contact for quote: CxSAST (on-premises) and Checkmarx One (enterprise cloud-native platform) available
  • Free demo: Contact to schedule

I selected Checkmarx because it excels in detecting dynamic vulnerabilities, identifying optimal solutions, and leveraging AI for personalized searches. Its easy connection with code repositories and comprehensive language support guarantee robust security in various kinds of software development environments.

  • Dynamic vulnerability detection: Identifies the most essential findings and high-risk vulnerabilities in mission-critical applications.
  • Optimal fix identification: Determines the optimal area to correct code, allowing many vulnerabilities to be addressed with a single modification for maximum impact.
  • AI-powered query builder: Uses generative AI to improve SAST tuning and result accuracy by generating and customizing queries without prior knowledge.
  • Uncompiled code scanning: Scans code directly from repositories such as GitHub, GitLab, Azure, and Bitbucket while smoothly integrating into the SDLC.
  • Extensive language and framework support: Supports over 35 languages and 80 frameworks for multi-platform development, including both new and legacy languages.
Checkmarx interface.

Checkmarx provides practically accurate security scans but lacks upfront pricing. If you’re looking for a free SAST tool, consider SonarQube.

SonarQube Best for Extended Code Analysis & Scanning


SonarQube’s deeper SAST functionality makes it particularly good at extended code analysis and scanning. It tracks data flow in and out of third-party libraries in a novel way, revealing previously unknown security flaws. This functionality improves on its existing SAST engine by providing complete visibility into the inner workings of popular libraries, ensuring unprecedented code analysis for robust application security and a fortified codebase.

  • Extensive language support
  • Generates test coverage reports
  • Offers many plugins to interact with

Cons

  • Needs insights for project libraries
  • Steep learning curve
  • Users cite UI needs improvement
  • Open source community edition: Free download available
  • Developer edition: $160+ per year, for a max analysis of 100,000 lines of code (LOC)
  • Enterprise edition: $21,000+ per year, for a maximum analysis of 1M LOC
  • Free trial: 14 days

Because of its accessibility and adaptability, I chose SonarQube as one of the top SAST tools. SonarQube Community Edition and SonarCloud are free for open-source projects. Its seamless integration with leading DevOps platforms make it a great tool for code quality and security.

  • Deeply hidden security issue detection: Identifies hidden vulnerabilities within code, especially those caused by interactions with third-party libraries.
  • Secure development acceleration: Enables faster and more secure development cycles by identifying and addressing any security vulnerabilities early in the process.
  • Risk mitigation: Reduces the chance of security breaches by proactively identifying and fixing vulnerabilities.
  • Automated code scanning: Simplifies the process of scanning code for security flaws in order to improve productivity and dependability.
  • Code security and compliance: Detects and reports on security vulnerabilities and compliance violations to ensure conformity to standards and laws.
SonarQube interface.

SonarQube provides complete static analysis and code quality management across the software development lifecycle. However, if you’re looking for a developer-focused tool that offers real-time security testing, and actionable insights, try Snyk.

Snyk Best Developer-Focused SAST Tool


Snyk distinguishes itself as a developer-focused SAST tool with real-time testing features, ensuring code security during development. Its user-friendly interface delivers actionable results and corrective guidance for developers, powered by industry-leading security intelligence that minimizes coding delays. Snyk streamlines security without disturbing productivity by integrating seamlessly across multiple languages and platforms, allowing for speedy vulnerability response.

  • 14+ languages and frameworks
  • Offers free version with extensive features
  • Separates and categorizes issues

Cons

  • False positives
  • Paid plans can be costly
  • Customizing policies needs improvement
  • Free version: Available for individual developers and small teams for up to 100 tests
  • Team: $25+ per month, per product, for up to 10 contributing developers
  • Contact for quote: Enterprise plan available
  • Free demo: Contact to schedule

I chose Snyk as one of the top SAST solutions because of its customized plans for developers and security teams. Its knowledge base, supplemented by machine learning, provides cutting-edge security. Snyk easily incorporates security into daily workflows through features such as prioritizing top code risks, an integrated IDE, in-workflow testing, and CI/CD security gates.

  • Continuous scanning across the SDLC: Ensures ongoing security assessments from development to deployment.
  • Real-time custom code scanning: Detects vulnerabilities in custom code and allows for immediate adjustments.
  • Deepcode AI Engine: Provides developer-friendly fix suggestions in the integrated development environment (IDE).
  • Dev-first integrations (IDE, CLI, Repo): Integrates seamlessly into developers’ workflows through a range of tools.
  • Automated fixes: Enables automated issue remediation within the IDE through Deepcode AI Fix. 
Snyk interface.

While Snyk focuses on security, Checkmarx frequently performs more comprehensive vulnerability scans. Furthermore, Checkmarx may provide extended assistance for compliance standards and integration with enterprise systems.

Top Dynamic/Interactive App Security Testing (DAST/IAST) Tools

DAST functions as a black-box testing approach, examining applications in real time and often implemented later in the CI pipeline. It’s effective for regression prevention, regardless of programming languages. IAST combines SAST and DAST, providing real-time feedback on vulnerabilities and facilitating rapid remediation within workflows. Gitlab, Contrast Security, and Invicti Security are some of the best DAST/IAST tools available.

GitLab Best for AI-Powered Workflows Throughout the SDLC


GitLab is an ideal solution for AI-powered processes throughout the SDLC by improving communication among development, security, and operations teams. Through GitLab duo, an AI assistant, users have more control over which devices or users can use its AI-powered workflow capabilities. GitLab also offers a unified platform that integrates the best AI model for each use case from identifying the code to fixing security vulnerabilities.

  • Enables collaboration between many developers
  • Offers code review
  • Easy tracking of changes

Cons

  • Users report complexity in integration
  • Lengthy support response time
  • Interface can be overwhelming for new users
  • Free version: Supports up to 5 users
  • Premium: $29+ per user, per month
  • Contact for quote: Ultimate plan for enterprises available
  • Free trial: 30 days

I chose GitLab as a dependable DAST tool because of its extensive documentation and complete security testing features. GitLab ensures that runtime vulnerabilities are fully identified and mitigated by incorporating DAST alongside other basic security tests such as secret detection and SAST. Its versatile automation options make scanning more efficient in CI/CD pipelines or on demand.

  • DAST proxy-based analyzer: Scans typical apps using simple HTML, which can run automatically or on demand.
  • DAST browser-based analyzer: Scans JavaScript-heavy applications, particularly single-page web apps, for vulnerabilities.
  • DAST API analyzer: Scans web APIs and supports technologies such as GraphQL, REST, and SOAP.
  • Architectural pattern analyzer: Follows secure application architectural patterns, configurable in CI templates, and runs scans in Docker containers.
  • DAST report artifact: Creates a report to determine found vulnerabilities by comparing scan results between source and target branches.
GitLab interface.

Although GitLab provides excellent scanning capabilities, Invicti Security provides a more extensive vulnerability assessment and real-time threat detection for web apps.

Contrast Security Best for Real-Time Insights & Quick Remediation


Contrast Security provides real-time insights and rapid fixes through its IAST solution that continuously discovers and prioritizes vulnerabilities, guiding developers through risk reduction with accuracy and efficiency. Contrast Assess, an IAST-style DAST tool, offers real-time feedback and faster remediation, overcoming typical DAST weaknesses by extensively analyzing code behavior to identify particular vulnerabilities.

  • Stable monitoring and detecting capabilities
  • Identifies alerts and vulnerabilities
  • Good user interface

Cons

  • Scalability issues
  • Needs to support wider set of technologies
  • Out-of-the-box reporting could be improved
  • Free version: Full access to CodeSec’s: Serverless, SCA & Scan features for 1 user
  • Contact for quote: Other products available
  • Free demo: Contact to schedule

I considered Contrast Security as one of the top tools, as its IAST solution has been recognized for securing every line of code while continuously detecting and prioritizing vulnerabilities with industry-leading accuracy, efficiency, scalability, and coverage. It incorporates security into all tests, delivers exact results with additional context, and enables quick vulnerability repairs, hence promoting agile and scalable application development.

  • Secure line of code: Makes use of cutting-edge IAST technology to continuously detect, prioritize, and guide developers through the risk-reduction process.
  • Live architecture and flow view: Uses Contrast agent insights to create detailed visualizations of application components, code trees, and data flow.
  • Developer remediation guidance: Provides specific, code-level information, detailing vulnerabilities in depth so that developers can readily resolve issues. 
  • Application attack intelligence: Provides developers with attack surface mapping, route and URL intelligence, and the ability to measure testing effectiveness.
  • Visualization for threat modeling: Automatically creates diagrams of main architectural components to assist developers in resolving vulnerabilities.
Contrast Security interface.

Contrast Security provides an excellent IAST tool that allows for real-time insights and swift corrections. However, if you’re looking for a comprehensive combination of DAST and IAST capabilities, Invicti may be a better fit.

Invicti Security Best for Combined Dynamic & Interactive Scanning


Invicti, formerly NetSparker, combines dynamic (DAST) and true interactive (IAST) scanning to provide greater vulnerability coverage, accuracy, and insight. The IAST sensor collaborates with the DAST scanner to identify additional vulnerabilities, eliminate false positives, and pinpoint specific locations for speedier repairs. This integration provides complete application security while saving teams time and increasing efficiency.

  • Users cite satisfactory customer service
  • User-friendly interface
  • Customizable scanning to reduce scan time

Cons

  • Integration is limited to popular systems
  • Lack of transparent pricing
  • Restricts the amount of website URLs to scan
  • Contact for quote: Custom plans available
  • Free demo: Contact to schedule

I selected Invicti because of its ability to include security automation into each SDLC process. It enables thorough app scanning, improved vulnerability discovery, and quick resolution with less manual work. Invicti effortlessly integrates security into development and delivers ongoing protection, with a comprehensive, automated approach to year-round security.

  • IAST sensor: Improves backend visibility by identifying unlinked and hidden files, as well as mapping all web application files and routes.
  • Comprehensive API testing: Imports API definition files and links to test all REST, SOAP, and GraphQL APIs, providing full coverage.
  • Prevent vulnerabilities: Identifies and resolves misconfigured local configuration files, sends best practice recommendations, and enhances security posture.
  • Proof-based scanning™: Verifies vulnerabilities, reduces false positives, and allows for automated problem assignment without manual verification.
  • Faster vulnerability fixes: Pinpoints the specific location of vulnerabilities, including file names and line numbers.
Invicti interface.

While Invicti specializes in web application security testing (AST), GitLab excels at providing a complete DevOps solution for software development and deployment processes, such as version control, collaboration, and automation.

Top Runtime Application Self-Protection (RASP) Tools

Runtime Application Self-Protection (RASP) software improves DevSecOps by scanning programs in real time for vulnerabilities and threats. RASP tools, which are integrated into the runtime environment, detect and automatically prevent harmful behavior based on application architecture and data flow insights. Explore Dynatrace, Fortify, and Imperva RASP tools for continuous protection and reliable security without requiring human oversight.

Dynatrace Application Security Best for Real-Time Attack Detection & Blocking


Dynatrace RASP protects cloud-native apps at runtime through intelligent automation. It identifies and prevents real-time attacks like SQL injections, lowering risk and enabling faster innovation. Dynatrace’s AI-assisted prioritization and automated vulnerability management improve DevSecOps efficiency. Its Security Analytics function reduces log investigation costs while improving proactive security measures.

  • 24/7 monitoring
  • Supports wide-range of app monitoring tools
  • Offers performance insights

Cons

  • Needs better navigation menu
  • Needs more flexibility in customizing dashboard
  • Per-hour pricing could cause confusion
  • Runtime application protection: $0.00225 per GiB, per hour
  • Contact for quote: Custom plans and add ons available
  • Free trial: 15 days
  • Free demo: Contact to schedule

I chose Dynatrace as one of the top RASP solutions due to its complete approach to application security. Dynatrace’s features include full-stack monitoring, vulnerability evaluation, and host coverage analysis, which provide detailed visibility and prioritization of vulnerabilities. This allows for efficient detection and remediation that can improve your overall application security.

  • Runtime vulnerability analytics: Automatically discovers vulnerabilities that require prompt attention by evaluating data access pathways and production execution.
  • Runtime application protection: Uses code-level insights and transaction analysis to detect and prevent attacks on programs in real time.
  • Efficient security investigations: Facilitates Grail data ingestion utilizing DQL queries to improve the efficiency and precision of security investigations.
  • Vulnerability prioritization: Provides a prioritized picture of vulnerabilities across applications and cloud stacks to help optimize repair efforts.
  • DevSecOps lifecycle coverage: Monitors container security throughout the DevSecOps lifecycle to ensure complete protection.
Dynatrace interface.

While Dynatrace is a solid tool for performance monitoring, Fortify outperforms it by providing comprehensive code analysis and vulnerability detection without the need to run the program.

Fortify Application Defender Best for Third-Party Apps Risk Protection


Fortify by OpenText improves third-party app risk prevention by seamlessly incorporating security measures into the DevSecOps workflow. This integration guarantees that security standards are implemented throughout the dev process, from basic code creation to deployment. Fortify’s integration of security into the DevSecOps pipeline enables enterprises to proactively discover and address security vulnerabilities in third-party apps.

  • Deep vulnerability analysis
  • Quick neutralization of threats
  • Efficiently streamlines the SDLC

Cons

  • Users cite occasional network interruptions
  • Lacks transparent pricing
  • Difficult navigation in UI
  • Contact for quote: Custom plans available
  • Free trial: Available by request
  • Free demo: Contact to schedule

I chose this RASP tool mostly because of its quick and effective threat neutralizing capabilities. The tool responds to current threats with exceptional speed and efficacy, making it a top choice in the market. Its ability to quickly implement resolutions distinguishes it, ensuring strong protection against developing security threats.

  • Scalable code security: Allows for complete security protections for large-scale codebases, offering strong vulnerability protection.
  • DevSecOps: Works flawlessly with DevOps pipelines, offering quick and seamless security without sacrificing development pace or quality.
  • SDLC: Improves security across the whole software development lifecycle, from code creation to deployment.
  • Cloud-native apps support: Provides customized security solutions for cloud-native apps, assisting enterprises at every stage of their cloud security transformation journey.
  • Secure supply chain: Ensures software supply chain security, allowing enterprises to deploy secure apps by thoroughly inspecting all components and dependencies.
Fortify interface.

While Fortify Application Defender is adept at application security testing, Imperva RASP excels at runtime protection and real-time attack detection that removes threats from the application environment.

Imperva RASP Best for Detecting & Neutralizing Zero-Day Attacks


Imperva RASP works by embedding security protections directly into the application runtime environment. This integration permits real-time monitoring of application behavior and traffic. Imperva RASP can detect and neutralize zero-day threats by analyzing requests and responses in real time. This technique offers proactive protection, shielding applications from developing threats.

  • Complements with WAF
  • Offers visibility into runtime attacks
  • Uses contextual awareness for threat detection

Cons

  • Steep learning curve in using the tool
  • Lacks transparent pricing
  • Mac platform support availability is unclear
  • Contact for quotes: Custom plans available
  • Free trial: Contact for length
  • Free demo: Contact to schedule

I chose Imperva because its Runtime Protection (RASP) integrates smoothly into the application while delivering real-time security against both known and unknown threats. With Imperva, users can protect their data by neutralizing zero-day attacks, identifying undiscovered threats, and improving security intelligence, all while maintaining performance.

  • Application risk reduction: Protects applications from vulnerabilities, allowing teams to concentrate on business logic without being exposed to exploitation threats.
  • Adaptable security: Offers internal security that can be adjusted to accommodate changing workloads and circumstances.
  • Language theoretic security (LANGSEC): Detects and neutralizes both known and zero-day attacks to assure application security while preserving performance.
  • RASP attack detection: Detects and stops assaults in real time, offering rapid protection against zero-day threats and the top 10 OWASP vulnerabilities.
  • Protection against zero-day attacks: Provides out-of-the-box accuracy that does not require tuning to protect apps from zero-day threats.
Imperva interface.

Imperva RASP focuses on runtime protection and real-time attack detection, whereas Dynatrace provides full application security solutions combined with intelligent automation.

Top Software Composition Analysis (SCA) Tools

Software composition analysis (SCA) uses specialized tools integrated into the dev process to protect code security, quality, and compliance. SCA creates a software bill of materials (SBOM) and compares it to databases to identify vulnerabilities and compliance concerns. Some of the most popular SCA tools on the market include Black Duck SCA, Veracode, and Mend.io (formerly WhiteSource).

Black Duck SCA Best for Software Supply Chain Risks Management


Synopsys’ Black Duck software composition analysis is suitable for risk management in the software supply chain. It provides comprehensive dependency analysis, binary analysis, codeprint analysis, and snippet analysis to identify open-source dependencies in various software types. This allows teams to address security, quality, and license issues prior to software deployment, align with industry standards, and gain supply chain visibility.

  • Prioritization based on severity
  • Fast inventory scans
  • Automatic scanning

Cons

  • Expensive for small businesses
  • Scattered documentation
  • Lacks robust governance capabilities
  • Security edition: $525+ per member, per month
  • Contact for quote: Supply chain edition available

I selected this SCA tool for its broad features. It provides strong vulnerability management and compliance tools, including limitless scans and quick open-source dependency analysis. The ability to export SBOMs in SPDX and CycloneDX formats, together with Black Duck Security Advisories, gives vital insights and guidance for ensuring security across the SDLC.

  • Dependency analysis: Identifies direct and transitive dependencies declared by package managers, providing a full understanding of program dependencies.
  • Binary analysis: Discovers dependencies in post-build artifacts such as firmware and container images without requiring access to source code, resulting in improved visibility. 
  • Codeprint analysis: Detects dependencies in source files and directories, including those not specified by package managers, for more precise dependency identification.
  • Snippet analysis: Matches code snippets to their original open-source projects, allowing AI coding tools to accurately identify dependencies.
  • Risk assessment and prioritization: Enables the evaluation of dependencies for associated hazards, which guides prioritizing and remedial actions.
Synopsys interface.

Black Duck includes some training materials and documentation; however, Veracode’s more structured and thorough training offerings are widely regarded to be better for assisting developers in improving their security procedures.

Veracode SCA Best for Open Source Policy & Governance Automation


Veracode is a cloud solution provider that combines SCA with powerful open source policy and governance automation. This capability gives enterprises control over their software supply chain. Teams can effortlessly enforce regulations, manage risks, and assure compliance throughout the development process. This holistic method improves security posture while streamlining open source management to increase productivity and effectiveness.

  • Continuously scans at every dev phase
  • Responsive customer support
  • Integrates with any CI/CD tools

Cons

  • Users report occasional slow web interface
  • Lengthy scan time
  • Needs alert features for new issues
  • Contact for quote: Custom plans available
  • Free demo: Contact to schedule

Forrester listed Veracode as one of the strong performers in SCA. Veracode provides outstanding SBOM support, developer training, and automated pull requests. These capabilities provide better control over third-party code, faster remediation, increased policy compliance, and efficient vulnerability management across the application delivery lifecycle.

  • Dependency graphs: Finds direct and indirect weaknesses in the execution route and prioritizes them.
  • Auto-pull requests: Uses automatic requests for code changes to fetch and apply the best code fix.
  • Software bill of materials (SBOM): Creates an inventory of open-source components in CycloneDX format.
  • Automated policy enforcement: Creates code quality gates with bespoke policy management.
  • Reporting and analytics: Obtains cross-risk analytics, vulnerability and legal risk findings, peer benchmarking, and auditable mitigation procedures.
Veracode interface.

While Veracode provides risk prioritization features, you may also explore Mend.io/WhiteSource’s specialized Effective Usage Analysis and automated risk prioritization that take a more targeted approach to risk reduction.

Mend.io (Formerly WhiteSource) Best for Effective Usage Analysis Technology


Mend.io, formerly WhiteSource, is a pioneer in open source code management, and its flagship software composition analysis (SCA) solution provides clients with visibility into key risks through databases of open source components, licensing, and vulnerabilities. This tool provides a reliable Effective Usage Analysis, which prioritizes and identifies active vulnerabilities in your code. This reduces cleanup efforts while accelerating fixes.

  • All licenses in one centralized place
  • Offers a free cloud-based service
  • Integrates well with Azure pipelines

Cons

  • Costly for small businesses
  • False positives
  • Dashboard navigation needs improvement
  • Free: Offers open source vulnerabilities management available
  • Mend SCA: $18,000+ per year, for 25 developers
  • Contact for quote: Custom plans and add-ons available
  • Free trial: Contact for length
  • Free demo: Contact to schedule

I chose WhiteSource as one of the best SCA solutions because it reduces risk and effort across all teams—management, legal, security, operations, developers, and QA. WhiteSource, now Mend.io, is a robust platform that supports a variety of situations. It prioritizes significant vulnerabilities, eliminates false positives, and automates remediation, promoting a DevSecOps mentality and effective teamwork.

  • Effective usage analysis: Automatically prioritizes and reduces remediation work, allowing teams to address key problems much more quickly.
  • Comprehensive vulnerability data: Compiles data from hundreds of sources, including NVD, security advisories, and open-source project issue trackers.
  • Accuracy: Uses a patent-pending algorithm to identify vulnerabilities to the precise components they affect, ensuring zero false positives.
  • Real-time alerts: Components and vulnerability databases are updated numerous times per day, providing quick information for prioritizing and addressing problems.
  • Reporting and auditing: Provides pre-built reports for research and development, security, legal, management, compliance, and due diligence.
Mend.io interface.

While Mend.io/WhiteSource includes security features for seamless DevOps integration processes, you may also explore Black Duck, as they offer an extensive expertise for enterprises looking to streamline their dev processes.

Top DevSecOps Automated Testing Tools

DevSecOps automated testing tools simplify development by including security checks throughout the SDLC. These tools automate security evaluations, discover vulnerabilities, and detect bad code in the early stages, resulting in speedier failure recovery and significant cost savings. Some of the most popular automated testing tools are OWASP, Red Hat Ansible, and ThreatModeler.

OWASP ZAP Best for Automated Penetration Testing


The Open Web Application Security Project (OWASP) is an established player in cybersecurity for its threat research and contributions to the open-source community. OWASP offers ZAP, a versatile proxy tool that does automated penetration tests, vulnerability assessments, and code reviews on web applications. With automated pentesting, the tools simulate the behaviors of a malicious external attacker, fully exploring web apps for vulnerabilities.

  • Community-supported open-source project
  • Free for personal and commercial use
  • Zap Marketplace offers free add-on tools

Cons

  • Steep learning curve for new users
  • Complex documentation
  • Outdated UI
  • Free: ZAP version 2.15.0 available for direct download
  • Free: ZAP Add-ons via ZAP Marketplace

I selected OWASP ZAP mainly because, as an open-source technology, it promotes community participation and transparency. It provides comprehensive vulnerability detection with active and passive scanning capabilities, as well as smooth DevOps integrations. Additionally, engaging with community-driven innovation tools like what they offer reduces costs and increases reliability.

  • Automated scanning for web app vulnerabilities: Detects and analyzes security flaws in web apps using active and passive scanning methods.
  • Port and database risk scanning: Scans open ports and database setups for vulnerabilities, focusing on SQL injection concerns.
  • Seamless DevOps integrations: Enables easy integration into DevOps workflows and management of the proxy app via the REST API interface.
  • Threat generation and mitigation engine: Generates and handles potential security risks, hence improving threat management and application security.
  • Threat modeling methodology support: Provides features compatible with various threat modeling approaches, including CIA, LINDDUN, and STRIDE.
OWASP interface.

OWASP is useful for application security, including tools such as ZAP for penetration testing and Threat Dragon for threat modeling, but you may check out Red Hat Ansible for an enterprise-grade automation solution that streamlines and scales IT management.

Red Hat Ansible Automation Best for Unified Automation Solutions


Red Hat Ansible Automation simplifies IT operations with unified automation solutions. Ansible, an open-source automation engine, reduces manual activities, improving consistency, dependability, and scalability. Ansible enables DevOps pipelines for server provisioning, configuration management, and application deployment, assuring efficient and error-free operations across your IT infrastructure.

  • Automation feature streamlines operations
  • Maintains compliance adherence
  • Accelerates app delivery

Cons

  • Requires higher-level skills to use
  • Limited real-time monitoring
  • Needs to add more modules
  • Contact for quote: Standard and premium plans available
  • Free trial: 60 days
  • Free demo: Contact to schedule

I selected Red Hat Ansible Automation because of its strategic scalability. Unlike siloed scripts, the Ansible Automation Platform provides a subscription-based solution for building, managing, and growing automation playbooks throughout the company. With a strong community and container-based architecture, it ensures consistency and efficiency in automated activities across several teams and settings.

  • Unified automation solution: Addresses many automation requirements efficiently with a single corporate solution, resulting in optimized operations across several use cases.
  • Automation creation: Uses specialized developer tools to develop automation more effectively, resulting in faster Ansible Playbook creation and deployment.
  • Security enhancement: Includes enforcing consistent security rules and configurations to protect against threats through automated monitoring and response.
  • ITOps optimization: Uses Event-Driven Ansible to automate processes based on rules, increasing efficiency and scalability.
  • AI foundation: Standardizes ITOps with trusted automation processes, facilitating AI adoption using Ansible Playbooks and Rulebooks.
Red Hat interface.

Red Hat Ansible is ideal for overall IT automation, but ThreatModeler is a solid option for AI-driven threat modeling.

ThreatModeler Best for Mobile & IoT App Design Threat Modeling


ThreatModeler’s newest v7.0 release focuses on mobile and IoT app threat modeling. It uses an Intelligent Threat Engine to detect threats across cloud, mobile, and IoT platforms. The new version includes the ThreatModeler Wingman AI Assistant, real-time collaboration, and enterprise-grade tools to simplify threat modeling in complicated contexts. Its user-friendly interface enables sophisticated, org-specific modeling to aid in DevSecOps automation.

  • Suits a fast-paced IT environment
  • Integrates well with IDEs and CI/CD pipelines
  • Compatible with Agile development

Cons

  • Lacks transparent pricing
  • Few community and user reviews
  • Needs more extensive documentation
  • Contact for quote: Standard and custom plans available
  • Free trial: Contact for length
  • Free demo: Contact to schedule

I chose ThreatModeler because of its comprehensive approach to DevSecOps automation. ThreatModeler’s suite, which includes CloudModeler and IaC-Assist, allows users to efficiently secure IT systems and apps. Its one-click threat modeling streamlines design, deployment, and administration, assuring secure and compliant systems from development to deployment, resulting in cost savings and increased regulatory compliance.

  • Mobile and IoT app design threat modeling: Offers specific threat modeling skills to ensure full security coverage for mobile and IoT apps.
  • ThreatModeler WingMan™: Integrates machine learning and AI into its toolbox, simplifying diagramming through probabilistic modeling dynamics.
  • Real-time security posture analysis: Enables cross-organization collaboration for complete risk analysis and security posture evaluation.
  • Enterprise readiness: Provides highly flexible, adaptable, and scalable capabilities designed for multi-tier, international DevSecOps environments.
  • DevSecOps workflow collaboration: Combines project management, safe software development, and active security auditing processes in real time.
ThreatModeler interface.

ThreatModeler is useful for comprehensive mobile and IoT app threat modeling; however, if you want an extensive collection of free DevSecOps tools, try OWASP.

How to Choose the Best DevSecOps Tools for Your Business

When assessing DevSecOps technologies, evaluate their security capabilities, scalability, integration, ease of use, and cost effectiveness. Also check for the tool’s compliance and the availability of community resources. The tool you choose should cater to the unique needs of your company, especially considering the growing complexity of cyber threats and increased regulatory scrutiny of software applications.

  • Comprehensive security coverage: Look for tools that provide a wide range of security capabilities to cover all phases of the software development lifecycle.
  • Scalability and flexibility: Make sure the tools can grow with your firm and adapt to changing security requirements.
  • Integration capabilities: Choose tools that work easily with your current development and deployment operations.
  • Ease of use and adoption: Pick user-friendly tools that your staff can easily implement without considerable training.
  • Cost-effectiveness: Examine the pricing structure and license alternatives to ensure they’re within your budget and deliver value for money.
  • Regulatory compliance: Make sure the tools help you meet the regulatory and industry standards that are relevant to your business.
  • Community support and documentation: Take into account the availability of community resources to help with installation and problem solving.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How Does DevSecOps Work?

DevSecOps incorporates security into every stage of the CI/CD pipeline, providing reliable protection throughout the development process. It consists of six stages: plan, code, build, test, release, and deployment. Security is built into each level, with automated tools for continuous testing and verification, secure coding techniques, thorough vulnerability assessments, and safe deployment.

What’s the Difference Between DevOps & DevSecOps?

DevOps focuses on breaking down boundaries between development and operations teams in order to enhance deployment frequency while preserving stability and quality. DevSecOps goes beyond this by incorporating security into all stages, making security a shared responsibility. While DevOps focuses on speed and quality, DevSecOps adds rigorous security measures that require the use of extra security tools.

What Are the Benefits of Using DevSecOps Tools?

DevSecOps tools prioritize security during development, thus lowering post-release security expenses and maintaining compliance with privacy standards such as HIPAA and GDPR. They encourage cross-team cooperation, break down silos, and employ automation to save development time. DevSecOps also improves software resilience to risks, making it more cost-effective, scalable, and adaptable for long-term rewards.

Bottom Line: Integrate Holistic Security to SDLC with DevSecOps Tools

DevSecOps tools effortlessly incorporate security into the software development lifecycle, strengthening applications without slowing down development. The market now offers a variety of choices, including static and dynamic testing, container security, and API management. Leverage free trials or open source solutions that allow for testing in operational workflows to help you make more informed decisions for increased efficiency and security.

To enhance the security of your DevOps workflows, check out our complete guide to container security. There you’ll learn how container security can provide comprehensive protection and also discover the components, best practices, benefits, and risks involved.

Sam Ingalls contributed to this article.

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