Dynamic application security testing (DAST) is a very specialized field in the cybersecurity industry. DAST tools are handy for testing Web applications. They activate various features in a Web page or an API to test its behavior. As DAST aims to probe the Web application’s security, it runs an attempt to break to corrupt the application somehow.
WebInspect is a DAST tool that probes the security weaknesses in Wen applications. The full name of this security system is Fortify WebInspect. The Fortify product line is a property of Micro Focus that is intended to test system security. So, WebInspect is part of a family of tools created by software engineers who are highly experienced in cybersecurity.
What does WebInspect do?
Fortify Software is a division of Micro Focus, and it specializes in security and verification systems, particularly DAST, SAST, and IAST services. WebInspect is a product that focuses on Web application security testing. The system can be used during applications development and as an assessment service when considering buying new Web applications and services. For example, a development project team would use the tool to check on an API that it might be considering using, and an IT Operations team would use the tool to assess live websites.
The system deploys a crawler to work its way through the functions in a Web application and uses OpenAPI to test APIs. The exact testing methods implemented by the test platform can be tailored to check against specific goals. This system configuration can be set by applying a pre-written template from a library that includes compliance tests to PCI DSS, DISA STIG, NIST 800-53, ISO 27K, OWASP, and HIPAA standards.
How do I deploy WebInspect?
WebInspect is an on-premises package. It installs on Windows Server 2016 and 2019 or Windows 8, 8.1, and 10. A version will run on Docker, but this also requires that the underlying operating system is Windows or Windows Server.
The system works as a proxy that captures Web traffic, so that target of your DAST inspection needs to be accessible through a browser. The WebInspect service monitors the messages that travel back and forth between the application host under examination and the browser. In addition, the service provides a test shoe for APIs and functions that don’t represent a complete Web page.
The scans implemented by WebInspect can be launched on-demand, on a schedule, or set to run continuously. The continuous mode is suitable for integration into CI/CD pipelines.
You can assess Fortify WebInspect on a 15-day free trial.
WebInspect Pros & Cons
When assessing Fortify WebInspect, we identified its good points and bad points.
Pros:
- A long-standing facility that has been widely implemented and is stable
- Integration possible with CI/CD pipelines
- Automatic tailoring for specific data privacy standards
- On-premises deployment guarantees confidentiality
- Options for on-demand, scheduled, or continuous execution
Cons:
- No SAST functions
Fortify offers other system testing services, which include a SAST module called the Static Code Analyzer. It is possible to combine this with WebInspect to get a full IAST suite. The company also provides a combined testing service called Fortify on Demand. This is a SaaS platform that offers DAST, SAST, IAST, and mobile application testing.
Alternatives to Fortify WebInspect
Although DAST is a niche market, there is a surprising number of tools available to perform it. Not all of them could be counted as suitable alternatives to WebInspect. However, the capabilities of the Fortify team in producing system security testing tools are exceptional, and the company is hard to match in the DAST market.
Our methodology for selecting a WebInspect alternative
We reviewed the market for DAST tools and analyzed the options based on the following criteria:
- Options that are available as a SaaS platform or for an on-premises installation
- A service that can be run on-demand, on a schedule, or continuously
- Nice to have static code analysis (SAST) to provide a complete interactive applications security testing (IAST) service
- A system that recommends fixes for discovered errors and weaknesses
- The option to integrate the tool into a CI/CD pipeline
- A free trial, a demo system, or a money-back guarantee
- Good value for money
Our selection includes tools that can be used for assessing live Web apps or for testing apps under development.
Here is our list of the best alternatives to Fortify WebInspect:
- Invicti (ACCESS FREE DEMO) This comprehensive package of Web application security testing tools includes static code scanning (SAST) as well as DAST services to deliver a complete IAST system that can be integrated into development projects or used for live app testing. Available as a SaaS platform or for installation on Windows or Windows Server.
- Acunetix (ACCESS FREE DEMO) A SaaS vulnerability scanner can also be installed on-site and offers DAST and SAST options for development testing. The on-site package runs on Windows, macOS, and Linux.
- Rapid7 InsightAppSec A SaaS platform to which the customer submits code for assessment by pen testing experts using DAST tools.
- GitLab Ultimate is a cloud-based development platform organized to support DevOps pipelines and includes DAST testing points in the workflow.
- Veracode Dynamic Analysis A SaaS system that offers automated DAST assessments for Web apps in the wild or under development with access to expert advisors for solutions.
- Detectify Deep Scan A cloud-based testing system that provides discovery scanning, DAST assessments, and fix advice.
- Appknox Cloud-based automated testing service that is specifically designed to assess mobile apps. Choose between DAST, DAST, and API testing modules.
- Checkmarx IAST This interactive application security testing system combines DAST and SAST system checks from a cloud platform.
You can read more about each of these options in the following sections.
The Best Alternatives to Fortify WebInspect
1. Invicti (EDITOR’S CHOICE)
Invicti can be used for development testing or for vulnerability scanning of existing Web applications. This service is a little better than the WebInspect service because it includes both static and dynamic analysis of apps out of the box – with WebInspect, those two functions are delivered in separate modules. This combination in Invicti provides a complete IAST system.
Key Features:
- IAST with DAST
- SaaS or on-premises
- CI/CD testing
- Scan results with error details
- HIPAA and PCI DSS compliance
Why do we recommend it?
Invicti is an application security testing system that offers SAST, DAST, and IAST options. This system can be deployed as a vulnerability manager but its main strength is to operate as a continuous tester in a CI/CD pipeline for DevOps teams. This tool can be integrated into other applications through an API.
Invicti includes a discovery service. This is useful for scanning existing Web apps, particularly APIs that you assess for inclusion in a new development. In addition, the discovery module helps you map out interdependencies, which forms a source map for integration testing where connections between applications need to be examined for potential data leaks.
The flexibility of Invicti allows it to be used for vulnerability scanning, pen-testing, or continuous testing in a development lifecycle. Scans can be launch on-demand or schedule. In addition, the testing goals of the service can be adjusted to enforce compliance with data privacy standards, such as HIPAA and PCI DSS.
Who is it recommended for?
This system is at its best when put in the service of a DevOps team that supports Web applications. This system can be used as a vulnerability manager for live applications, but its ability to scan APIs to validate them for inclusion in a development project and its continuous tester, give this package power.
Pros:
- Features a highly intuitive and insightful admin dashboard
- Supports any web applications, web service, or API, regardless of framework
- Provides streamlined reports with prioritized vulnerabilities and remediation steps
- Eliminates false positives by safely exploiting vulnerabilities via read-only methods
- Integrates into dev ops easily providing quick feedback to prevent future bugs
Cons:
- Would like to see a trial rather than a demo
You can choose between a hosted version of Invicti and an on-premises package. The hosted system is a complete SaaS platform, including space to store scan results over time for historical analysis. The on-premises version installs on Windows and Windows Server. You can access a free demo.
EDITOR’S CHOICE
Invicti is a great competitor to Fortify WebInspect because it provides a single DAST and SAST functions package to give an IAST service that checks all Web applications, including APIs. This tool helps prevent existing Web applications and also for the testing of modules under development. So, Invicti can be used for both a CI/CD pipeline and by IT operations staff.
Get a demo: invicti.com/get-demo/
Operating system: SaaS or for installation on Windows and Windows Server
2. Acunetix (ACCESS FREE DEMO)
Acunetix is a vulnerability scanner that is available in three formats. This system is suitable for on-demand vulnerability scanning of Web applications, scheduled regular scans of Web applications and networks, or integrated testing in a CI/CD pipeline.
Key Features:
- IAST and DAST
- Network scanning
- Vulnerability scanner mode
- Bug tracker integration
Why do we recommend it?
Acunetix is a very similar package to Invicti. In fact, it is produced by the same provider. This tool is probably a little stronger a vulnerability scanning than its stablemate. You can integrate OpenVAS into the system to add on network vulnerability scanning. The package can also be integrated into application development tools to become a continuous tester.
The service that you get with Acunetix depends on the plan that you pick. The Standard plan offers on-demand vulnerability scans. This can also be used as a penetration testing tool for Web apps. It scans for 7,000 vulnerabilities that include the OWASP Top 10.
Look at the Premium plan to automate Web application scanning and add on network vulnerability scans. The automated internal scans spot more than 50,000 weaknesses.
Who is it recommended for?
The customer base for this tool is very similar to that of Invicti. There is little difference between the two systems, except, perhaps that Acunetix is a little stronger at vulnerability scanning. Nevertheless, this is a tool that will appeal to DevOps teams that are engaged in Web application development and management.
Pros:
- Designed specifically for application security
- Integrates with a large number of other tools such as OpenVAS
- Can detect and alert when misconfigurations are discovered
- Leverages automation to immediately stop threats and escalate issues based on the severity
Cons:
- Would like to see a trial version for testing
Acunetix is offered as a SaaS platform. However, it is also possible to get the software as a package to install on your host. This version is available for Windows, macOS, and Linux. Access the demo system to assess Acunetix for free.
Acunetix 360 is the top plan, and it offers vulnerability scanning for Web applications, but it can also be used for testing in a CI/CD pipeline. In the development scenario, you would set up the testing system to run continuously, which operates a DAST strategy. The package also includes a code scanning system to give you SAST.
Get a demo: acunetix.com/web-vulnerability-scanner/demo/
Operating system: SaaS or for installation on Windows and Windows Server
3. Rapid7 InsightAppSec
Rapid7 sponsors Metasploit and produces Metasploit Professional. On top of that, pen testing and vulnerability scanning service, Rapid7 also offers the InsightAppSec package, which provides a DAST system.
Key Features:
- DAST
- On-demand or scheduled
- Compliance reporting
Why do we recommend it?
Rapid7 InsightAppSec is one of the tools on the Insight platform, which is a SaaS system within a range of security tools, including a vulnerability manager and an XDR. This system provides dynamic application security testing and it is specifically aimed at development testing – no doubt Rapid7 recommends its InsightVM vulnerability scanner for live systems.
This service provides on-demand and scheduled Web application vulnerability scanning that covers the OWASP Top 10. This is a cloud platform, so the service isn’t limited to monitoring systems resident on one particular server or a single site. The service is also available to check on applications that are still private while they are under development.
The tests carried out by Rapid7 InsightAppSec can be recalibrated to suit a specific data privacy standard. You nominate a standard in the settings for the tool, and all of the tests and goals of the tester automatically get adjusted accordingly. The system can also produce application verification documentation that is suitable for submission as part of a compliance-proof package.
Who is it recommended for?
This tool is a very good option for development teams. However, these teams that support Web applications would need to subscribe to the InsightVM tool and DevOps teams would need both. The Rapid7 Insight range of security tools is aimed at larger businesses.
Pros:
- Leverages behavioral analytics to detect threats that bypass signature-based detection
- Uses multiple data streams to have the most up-to-date threat analysis methodologies
- Allows for robust automated remediation
Cons:
- Pricing is higher than similar tools on the market
- Not the best option for smaller businesses
You can assess Rapid7 InsightAppSec by accessing its 30-day free trial.
4. GitLab Ultimate
GitLab is a cloud-based development environment that includes a testing system. The DevOps support system is offered in three editions: Free, Premium, and Ultimate. The testing platform is only included in the Ultimate plan.
Key Features:
- DAST
- Testing or vulnerability scanning
- CI/CD pipeline format
Why do we recommend it?
GitLab is an open source code repository system but you can take your account private by moving up to GitLab Premium or GitLab Ultimate. The Ultimate package has a large menu of extra services, which includes dynamic application security testing for applications under development and vulnerability management for live applications.
The testing service in the GitLabs Ultimate package offers a DAST system. It can perform a discovery service that scans Web applications and maps their dependencies. In addition, this system can trace through APIs and perform tests on the backing procedures. The tester can be launched on-demand in the style of a vulnerability scan, or it can be run on a schedule or set to run continuously.
The testing service in the Ultimate plan also has code scanning SAST services available. This static assessment service grades code for security and identifies areas for improvement. The testing service can also be used to enforce license compliance.
Who is it recommended for?
GitLab is becoming increasingly well-known beyond the open-source development community and if your development team includes recent graduates, you probably already have some staff who understand how the system works because it is regularly used in IT degree courses. The Ultimate package offers good value for money.
Pros:
- Integrates well with Docker and other containerized environments
- Offers testing prior to release
- Great for building frameworks for larger releases
Cons:
- Requires two deployment tools for testing and deployment
GitLab Ultimate is available for a 30-day free trial.
5. Veracode Dynamic Analysis
Veracode Dynamic Analysis is a cloud-based DAST testing platform that searches for more than 150 typical security errors found in Web applications under development. This is a service that is designed to fit into the CI/CD pipeline. The testing service produces recommendations on changes in code to correct the discovered weaknesses.
Key Features:
- DAST
- Continuous testing
- Scripting for test automation
Why do we recommend it?
The Veracode Dynamic Analysis system is just one package on the Veracode platform. Veracode specializes in code testing and offers SCA, SAST, and container security testing systems as well. This system is good for developer education because it gives guides on how to fix the discovered errors and explains why they created security weaknesses.
Test facilities include automatic and continuous detection and offer a scripting system that enables code to test interactive elements. This consists of the ability to issue actions to test log-in screens and activities such as customer checkout. With these tests, you can check the successful interaction with systems such as access rights managers and databases.
Tests are initiated by entering a URL in the Veracode system screen or loading up a file that contains a list of URLs to batch-test many new applications in an unattended run. This DAST test launch can be integrated into project management and development task automation systems so that testing occurs automatically as a new module moves along the CI/CD pipeline.
Who is it recommended for?
This is a development tool. However, you can run it on your live Web applications just to be sure. The Veracode system is able to process a lot of applications in a short space of time. Put to use in your development pipeline, you will get your team up to speed with best practices. Veracode offers a penetration testing service if all else fails.
Pros:
- Offers simple scheduled scans
- Easy options to stop, pause and resume scans
- Designed to remove the complexity of vulnerability hunting
Cons:
- Must contract sales for pricing
Veracode Dynamic Analysis is available as a demo system for assessment.
6. Detectify Deep Scan
Detectify Deep Scan offers an easy-to-use Web interface to launch DAST tests. Tests can be set up by entering a URL to scan or using the system’s Discovery service to search through your Web applications and map dependencies.
Key Features:
- DAST
- Continuous testing
- Vulnerability scanning
Why do we recommend it?
Detectify Deep Scan is an external attack surface management (EASM) package. This tool automates testing from its cloud platform. You would be testing your new applications from the same perspective that a hacker has. You can also get a self-hosted package that has a lower testing volume.
The testing system deploys DAST black-box testing for Web applications, concentrating on the OWASP Top 10 and a proprietary database of zero-day vulnerabilities that the Detectify system discovers during its working implementations for many clients. The Detectify system was assembled by a pen testing team that uses the tool themselves during commissions. The new attacks and weaknesses that this group discovers in its consultancy work also get added to the Detectify vulnerability exploits database.
Who is it recommended for?
This system is designed for use by Web applications operations support beams. You could be the buyer of third-party Web applications and cloud platforms or a business that develops its own Web system for internal use. DevOps companies that sell their apps to other companies should probably look at Invicti or Acunetix.
Pros:
- Sleek easy to use interface
- Automatically scans using OSWAP best practices
- Highly flexible – great for small to medium-sized businesses
Cons:
- Hosted in the EU – might not be the best choice for those in other regions.
Detectify Deep Scan is suitable for use during penetration testing, and it can also be used as a vulnerability scanner for Web applications. The tool can be set to run continuously, integrated into a CI/CD pipeline. The SaaS platform is hosted in Sweden, and its charges are set in Euros. The service is available for a two-week free trial.
7. Appknox
Appknox is a specialized testing platform that is built specifically to test mobile applications.
Key Features:
- IAST, SAST, and DAST
- Penetration testing
- Vulnerability scanning
Why do we recommend it?
Appknox specializes in security testing for mobile applications under development. This system will also continue to scan apps once they are released for use by the general public. The platform offers SAST, DAST, and API scanning. Scans occur in the background once you enter your code repository’s URL in the service’s Web-based console.
The utilities of this cloud-based system can be used for penetration testing and vulnerability testing. The service can also be integrated into development environments to provide developers, systems testers, acceptance testers, and IT operations teams in the DevOps production and maintenance of mobile apps.
Who is it recommended for?
Appknox is meant for use by businesses that provide their customers with a mobile app. It could be that the app was developed in-house, in which case you would be in a DevOps scenario, or, if the apps were developed by a consultancy, you would start to use Appknox for acceptance testing.
Pros:
- Offers excellent automated web scanning tools with simple scheduling options
- Operates in the cloud, no need for an on-premise server
- Highly visual – great for reporting and big-picture insights
Cons:
- Would like to have access to a trial rather than a demo version for testing
The Appknox service is available in three editions. These are Essential, Professional, and Enterprise. The platform offers a range of testing strategies, and all of the plans include static testing (SAST) and dynamic testing (DAST) options, which gives you a complete IAST service. Tests in the library are suitable for different needs at each stage in the development lifecycle.
The standard Appknox plans offer test automation services. However, there are also human-driven services available as extras. These include code assessment by security experts and penetration testing services.
8. Checkmarx IAST
Checkmarx IAST is an interactive application security testing platform that includes code-scanning services and black-box testing systems. This combination offers tests from within and from outside each Web application.
Key Features:
- IAST with SAST and DAST
- CI/CD pipeline tester
- Bug tracker integration
Why do we recommend it?
Checkmarx is a vast platform of security testing tools that offers every security scanning method that anyone can think of. You can access each module individually, getting the Checkmarx IAST plan, or subscribe to Checkmarx One and get the whole platform. The system provides scanning for code under development and for live applications.
The combination of SAST and DAST gives a development team a range of tests needed at each step in the development lifecycle. In addition, the testing system can be integrated into the CI/CD pipeline.
Who is it recommended for?
Checkmarx recommends its SAST and IAST plans for DevOps teams. Those developers of code would also be interested in the SCA and Infrastructure-as-Code (IaC) security testing and open source IaC security (KICS) as well. In which case, the Checkmarx One package would be an attractive deal.
Pros:
- Excellent user interface – sleek reporting and dashboard graphics
- Leverages automated testing and audits to keep systems secure
- Offers both DAST and SAST functionality
Cons:
- Must contract sales for pricing
The DAST service of cIAST scans for the OWASP Top 10 that cover access to databases and authentication systems and the Web application itself. The tool can be integrated into an issue tracker and project workflow managers to send modules back to the developer if issues arise during testing. The issue report will highlight the problem and suggest fixes.
Fortify WebInspect FAQs
What does fortify WebInspect do?
CyberRes Fortify WebInspect is a dynamic application security testing (DAST) package that will test Web applications for security weaknesses. This is a vulnerability scanner that is intended for use with live applications.
What is WebInspect sensor?
WebInspect’s DAST system has two components: a sensor and an agent. The sensor manages DAAST scans and the agent, which is optional, is installed on the host for the application and performs the actual security tests.
Is WebInspect part of Fortify?
CyberRes is a division of Micro Focus and CyberRes Fortify is a range of security testing tools. Fortify offers both SAST and DAST tools and Fortify WebInspect is one of the DAST systems.
