SAST
SAST (Static Application Security Testing) is a method used to check computer programs for security problems before they're released. Think of it like a spell-checker for security issues in software code. Instead of waiting until the program is running to find problems, SAST tools look at the raw code itself to spot potential security weaknesses early. This is similar to having a safety inspector check a building's blueprints before construction starts. It's also known as "Static Code Analysis" or "Source Code Security Analysis," and it's an important part of making sure software is secure from the start.
Examples in Resumes
Implemented SAST tools to reduce security vulnerabilities by 60%
Led adoption of Static Application Security Testing across development teams
Managed SAST and code security scanning programs for enterprise applications
Typical job title: "Application Security Engineers"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find Application Security Engineers
Online Communities
Professional Networks
Conferences & Events
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: How would you implement a SAST program in a large organization?
Expected Answer: A strong answer should cover creating security policies, selecting appropriate tools, training developers, managing false positives, and integrating scanning into the development process. They should also mention how to measure success and demonstrate value to management.
Q: How do you handle false positives in SAST results?
Expected Answer: Should explain approaches to prioritize findings, establish baseline rules, customize tool configurations, and create processes for developers to verify and document legitimate false positives.
Mid Level Questions
Q: What are the key differences between SAST and DAST?
Expected Answer: Should explain that SAST looks at raw code before it runs (like checking blueprints) while DAST tests running applications (like inspecting a finished building). Should mention advantages and limitations of each approach.
Q: How do you prioritize SAST findings?
Expected Answer: Should discuss methods for ranking security issues based on risk level, potential impact, likelihood of exploitation, and business context. Should mention working with development teams to establish realistic fix timelines.
Junior Level Questions
Q: What is SAST and why is it important?
Expected Answer: Should be able to explain that SAST is a way to find security problems in code before it's released, and why finding issues early in development saves time and reduces risk.
Q: What types of security issues can SAST tools find?
Expected Answer: Should list common security problems like data leaks, weak encryption, unsafe coding practices, and explain these in simple terms with basic examples.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-2 years)
- Basic understanding of security vulnerabilities
- Experience with common SAST tools
- Reading and interpreting scan results
- Following security testing procedures
Mid (2-5 years)
- Configuring and tuning SAST tools
- Analyzing and validating security findings
- Integration with development pipelines
- Security policy implementation
Senior (5+ years)
- Enterprise SAST program management
- Custom rule development
- Security strategy planning
- Team leadership and training
Red Flags to Watch For
- No knowledge of basic security concepts
- Unable to explain different types of security testing
- Lack of experience with any SAST tools
- No understanding of software development lifecycle
- Cannot explain how to handle false positives
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