DAST for Web Applications vs. Microservices: Complete Guide!

Introduction

Today’s digital services rely on two main application types: traditional web applications and microservices architectures. Securing each of these architectures poses unique challenges.

However, organizations risk exposing vulnerabilities specific to their architecture without a tailored approach, increasing the likelihood of cyber threats and operational issues.

This guide offers an in-depth look at Dynamic Application Security Testing (DAST) for Web Applications vs. Microservices, helping you identify the best security strategy for your needs.

What is a Web Application?

A web application is a software system accessible via web browsers that allows users to perform various functions online. Since these applications are often exposed to the Internet, they require robust security measures. Security tools are vital in identifying vulnerabilities like SQL injection and cross-site scripting (XSS), which are common in web apps.

DAST in Web Applications

Dynamic Application Security Testing (DAST) is vital in assessing live, runtime vulnerabilities in web applications. DAST tools simulate potential attacks, uncovering security weaknesses that may not be evident in the code alone.

DAST Tools for Web Applications

1. Web Application Vulnerability Scanner:
   • It identifies runtime vulnerabilities in web applications and provides targeted assessments to enhance security.
   • Example: OWASP ZAP — An open-source tool designed to find vulnerabilities during the development and testing phases.
2. Web Application Security Testing Tools:
   • These comprehensive tools evaluate both general and specific risks associated with web applications, offering a broad view of security postures.

Example: Burp Suite — A widely-used web application security testing platform that includes tools for scanning, crawling, and analyzing applications.

What Are Microservices?

Microservices architecture breaks down applications into independent services that operate as discrete functions, often communicating over APIs. While this structure allows for flexibility and scalability, it introduces unique security challenges, especially API security and service-to-service communication.

Read Also: 

Leveraging DAST for API Security Testing: Complete Guide!

DAST in Microservices

Due to the distributed nature of microservices architectures, Dynamic Application Security Testing (DAST) must be more targeted. Each microservice can introduce unique security risks, so testing efforts focus on identifying vulnerabilities in API endpoints and containerized environments.

Specialized DAST Tools for Microservices:

1. API Security Tools:
   • These tools are designed to secure the APIs that connect various microservices, protecting sensitive data and transactions. They help identify issues such as improper authentication, insufficient authorization, and data exposure vulnerabilities.
   • Example: APIsec — A tool that automates security testing for APIs by simulating attacks and checking for common vulnerabilities.
2. Container Scanners:
   • These tools address security concerns at the container level, which is crucial for environments where microservices are deployed in containers. They help detect vulnerabilities within container images and configurations, ensuring that only secure containers are used in production.
   • Example: Aqua Security — A comprehensive container security platform that provides vulnerability scanning for container images and runtime protection for deployed containers.

Since each microservice operates independently, DAST for microservices must be integrated into CI/CD pipelines to monitor for emerging vulnerabilities continuously, ensuring consistent security coverage.

DAST in Web Applications vs. Microservices: Key Differences

Aspect	Web Applications	Microservices
Architecture	Monolithic, with one codebase	Distributed, with many independent services
Primary Vulnerabilities	Web-based threats like XSS, SQLi	API-specific flaws, container vulnerabilities
DAST Focus	General application vulnerabilities	API and container security
Security Complexity	Moderate, easier to contain within a single structure	High, due to multiple services and endpoints

Web applications typically focus on securing a single codebase, while microservices require a broader approach, covering each service individually.

Choose the Right DAST Approach for Your Architecture With TRIOTECH SYSTEMS:

Choosing the right Dynamic Application Security Testing (DAST) approach depends heavily on your application’s architecture. For traditional web applications, standard vulnerability scanners and security testing tools effectively address common web-based vulnerabilities. 

On the other hand, microservices benefit from specialized DAST tools designed to secure API endpoints and container environments, given their distributed and interconnected nature. Integrating DAST into your CI/CD pipeline enables early detection of vulnerabilities, supporting consistent and robust security for both architectures.

Ready to take your application security to the next level? 

At Triotech Systems, Our Application Security Services are tailored to meet your unique needs. From vulnerability assessments to testing compliance audits with DAST and more, we take care of everything. Security is our Priority!

Contact Us Today & Find the Best Approach to Secure Your Architecture!

Key Takeaways

• DAST is essential for identifying runtime vulnerabilities across different application architectures.
• For Web Applications: DAST tools focus on common web vulnerabilities such as SQL injections and cross-site scripting (XSS), offering essential security for applications with a single, unified structure.
• For Microservices: More specialized DAST tools target security at the API and container levels, addressing the unique security needs of distributed and independently deployed services.
• Collaborating with TRIOTECH SYSTEMS Application Security Services ensures a comprehensive approach to application security that adapts to both traditional and modern structures.

 

Read Our Blogs:

Running DAST: Staging vs. Production Environments Explained!

Dynamic Testing (DAST) in SDLC: When and Where to Use it?

How DAST Works: Black-box vs. White-box testing

DAST vs Penetration Testing: Key Differences