GigaOm Radar for Application Security Testing (AST)v2.0

1. Executive Summary

In the face of relentless cyber threats and an ever-expanding attack surface, robust application security testing (AST) has become an indispensable component of any organization’s cybersecurity strategy and is now recognized as a critical investment that safeguards applications, sensitive data, and ultimately, an organization’s reputation and financial health.

AST encompasses a suite of methodologies and tools designed to identify vulnerabilities, weaknesses, and misconfigurations in software applications. These solutions are pivotal in preventing data breaches, unauthorized access, and malicious attacks that can cripple operations, erode customer trust, and inflict significant financial damage. AST is essential for organizations of all sizes across diverse industries, particularly those handling sensitive data or operating in highly regulated sectors.

The escalating sophistication of cyberattacks, combined with the growing complexity of application environments, has placed organizations constantly under threat. The fallout from a successful attack can be devastating, imposing regulatory fines, legal repercussions, loss of customers, and irreparable damage to brand reputation. Investing in AST is not merely a technological choice; it’s a strategic decision that directly impacts an organization’s resilience, competitiveness, and long-term success.

From a C-suite perspective, AST is not simply a matter of compliance or risk mitigation. It’s about ensuring business continuity, protecting revenue streams, and preserving shareholder value. By proactively identifying and remediating vulnerabilities, organizations can avoid costly downtime, prevent data breaches, and maintain the trust of their customers and partners.

The AST landscape is constantly evolving, driven by technological advancements and the changing nature of cyber threats. As organizations increasingly rely on unstructured data—such as emails, documents, and social media content—to drive business decisions, the security risks associated with this data have also amplified. Modern AST solutions must address the unique challenges posed by unstructured data, including its sheer volume, variety, and velocity.

Organizations must adopt a holistic approach to AST, integrating it seamlessly into their software development lifecycle (SDLC) and leveraging automation to keep pace with the rapid release cycles of modern applications. By prioritizing AST and embracing emerging technologies, organizations can fortify their defenses, mitigate risk, and position themselves for sustained success in the digital age.

This is our second year evaluating the AST space in the context of our Key Criteria and Radar reports. This report builds on our previous analysis and considers how the market has evolved over the last year.

This GigaOm Radar report examines 28 of the top AST solutions and compares offerings against the capabilities (table stakes, key features, and emerging features) and nonfunctional requirements (business criteria) outlined in the companion Key Criteria report. Together, these reports provide an overview of the market, identify leading AST offerings, and help decision-makers evaluate these solutions so they can make a more informed investment decision.