Top DAST Tools in 2025: Features, Pros & Cons

The rising frequency of application attacks has forced security experts to adopt a shift-left security approach. This has enhanced the popularity of the DAST tools, or  Dynamic application security testing tools to spot vulnerabilities in real-time. But choosing the best suitable DAST tool can be difficult. 

The list given below  isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution, and it’s not meant to be.Think of it as a guidepost. Each company has its own security priorities; some need compliance features, others care more about easy integration or speed. 

Let’s get started!

List of Best DAST Tools: Features And  Use Cases

DAST (Dynamic Application Scanning Tools) has become a go-to tool for security teams  because of its powerful capabilities.  

Learn more about Dynamic Application Security Testing scanners and how they work 

Below is a list of the top DAST scanning tools, with an overview of their strengths, pros & cons  and factors to consider while choosing a DAST scanner.

1. BugDazz

BugDazz API Security Scanner, developed by SecureLayer7, is a modern dynamic DAST-based API security testing platform designed to fill the gaps left by traditional scanners. 

It goes beyond OWASP’s standard risks by testing for JWT token weaknesses, session management flaws, poor rate limiting, broken business logic, and insecure OAuth configurations. 

With continuous discovery of shadow and outdated applications, role-based access control, customizable testing templates, and contextual vulnerability insights, BugDazz brings enterprise-grade coverage to teams of all sizes. It integrates seamlessly into CI/CD pipelines, produces detailed reports in multiple formats, and provides strategic patch recommendations that accelerate remediation.

Pros:

• Intuitive, developer-friendly interface
• Automated deep scanning with actionable reporting
• Smooth integration with Slack, Jira, GitHub, and CI/CD pipelines
• Flexible configuration and customizable templates
• Wide coverage that extends beyond OWASP Top 10
• Free trial available

Cons:

• Limited community support and its still evolving

2. Wallarm

Wallarm DAST Scanner is a unified platform for dynamic testing and runtime protection. It combines automated discovery with real-time threat detection and protection from injection flaws, data leaks, and API abuse. 

Wallarm quickly spots and isolates real application security threats from endless harmless activity, ensuring attention goes where it’s needed most. Its NG-WAF gathers attack data, feeding details payload, attack type, and endpoint to Wallarm’s DAST scanner, which then generates targeted tests.

Once the tool confirms a vulnerability, Wallarm creates a remediation ticket, providing a clear guidance for fixes and streamlining response to high-risk incidents.

Wallarm is best suitable for modern, API-driven applications and microservices in cloud-native or hybrid environments. 

Pros:

• Real-time detection 
• Broad environment support (cloud-native, on-premises, hybrid)
• Strong automation for testing and risk assessment

Cons:

• Setup may require skilled security expertise

3. Traceable by Harness

Traceable, now part of Harness, is a DAST tool that uses AI and machine learning to automate discovery, vulnerability detection, and behavioral analysis.

Traceable API DAST by Harness is a DAST scanner, not static or hybrid, it’s a dynamic, black-box API security testing solution

With flexible deployment options, SaaS, on-premises, or multi-cloud.It adapts to diverse environments. It analyzes live traffic for anomalies, making it suitable for complex application landscapes.

This is best suitable for DevOps teams automating API and web app security testing directly within CI/CD pipelines.

Pros:

• Context-aware scanning with behavioral insights
• Scales easily across hybrid environments

Cons:

• Steep learning curve for new teams
• Can be expensive for SMEs 
• Complex deployments

4. Astra

Astra’s DAST scanner automates vulnerability detection across web, mobile, and API assets, including those behind logins, with impressive breadth, over 10,000 AI-powered tests and zero false positives thanks to expert-vetted results.

The dashboard is CXO-friendly, and integration with Slack, Jira, GitHub, and GitLab fits modern DevOps workflows. Compliance reporting (PCI-DSS, HIPAA, SOC2, ISO 27001) and expert remediation support make it a solid choice for SaaS and CI/CD-driven teams. 

ASTRA is best suitable for startups, SMEs, and growing DevOps teams looking for  an easy-to-deploy, automated DAST and API testing solution. 

Pros:

• CI/CD, Slack, Jira, GitHub, GitLab integrations 
• Compliance reporting for PCI-DSS, HIPAA, SOC2, and ISO 27001.
• Continuous scanning and unlimited test runs.
• Expert manual pentest services available for critical findings.

Cons: 

• May miss business logic flaws 

5. OpenVas

OpenVAS, part of the Greenbone Vulnerability Management (GVM) framework, is a widely used open-source DAST tool. It’s built for both small and large environments. It specializes in scanning network infrastructure and web applications for vulnerabilities, offering comprehensive coverage through its large database. 

While it delivers high accuracy, some false positives and heavy resource usage are common. OpenVAS provides detailed reports and compliance mapping for PCI DSS, HIPAA, and CIS, making it a cost-effective option for security teams with limited budgets.

OpenVAS is best suitable for organizations seeking a free, open-source vulnerability scanner. 

Pros:

• Large vulnerability database
• Flexible scans
• Customizable options
• Detailed reporting

Cons:

• Consumes high resources 
• Complex set up 
• False positives 
• Limited API testing features

6. NMap

Nmap is a powerful open-source DAST tool primarily used for fast and efficient network scanning. It specializes in asset discovery, port and service audits, OS detection, and vulnerability discovery, making it an essential utility for security and network teams. 

While highly effective, it has a steep learning curve for advanced features and may trigger security alerts due to its intrusive scans. Designed for local or command-line deployment, Nmap remains a cost-effective choice for penetration test preparation and large-scale cloud or on-premise network management.

Nmap is best suited for network administrators and security professionals who need a versatile, open-source tool to perform detailed network discovery, port scanning, service and operating system detection. 

Pros:

• Fast and efficient network mapper
• Robust host, service, OS, and vulnerability discovery
• Asset discovery, port/service audits n

Cons:

• Steep learning curve for advanced features
• Can trigger security alerts due to intrusive scans

7. Rapid7

Rapid7 is a DAST tool designed for enterprises needing integrated vulnerability management, incident response, and compliance reporting across cloud, endpoints, and applications. It supports network, web, and cloud scans with integrations like Splunk, AWS, and Microsoft. 

The platform offers strong asset discovery, customizable dashboards, and compliance mapping for PCI DSS, HIPAA, and GDPR. 

Rapid7  DAST is ideal for enterprise-grade solution to scan complex web applications and APIs. 

Pros:

• Comprehensive coverage across VM, DAST, SIEM, and SOAR
• Customizable dashboards with strong asset discovery
• Compliance-centric reporting for PCI DSS, HIPAA, and GDPR

Cons

• Complex setup and management
• Can be expensive
• Occasional false positives

8. StackHawk

StackHawk is a modern DAST (Dynamic Application Security Testing) tool. It is specifically designed for developers, offering automated scanning of web applications and APIs (including REST, SOAP, GraphQL, and gRPC) directly in CI/CD pipelines. 

Unlike traditional DAST solutions aimed at security teams, StackHawk is built to fit into developer workflows, making it easy to catch vulnerabilities like SQL injection, XSS, and broken access controls before code reaches production. 

Overall, StackHawk is a leading, developer-friendly DAST and API security solution, built for speed, automation, and collaboration in modern software teams. 

StackHawk is best suitable for DevOps teams building modern web applications, microservices, and APIs  who want automated, developer-first security testing. 

Pros:

• Developer-friendly CI/CD pipelines
• Automates scanning for web and API vulnerabilities
• Supports authenticated scans and custom test scripts
• Simulates real-world attacks with black-box testing

Cons:

• May miss business logic flaws.
• Limited advanced features compared to some other DAST tools.

9. PortSwigger Burp Suite

PortSwigger’s Burp Suite is one of the most established DAST scanners worldwide. It offers automated crawling and scanning along with advanced manual testing for complex applications. 

With support for OpenAPI, GraphQL, and SOAP, it adapts to diverse environments. Its BApp Store and customizable scan checks (BChecks) make it one of the most extensible DAST platforms for security professionals.

Pros:

• Comprehensive scanning with deep manual testing capabilities
• Highly customizable and extensible via extensions
• Large community and frequent updates

Cons:

• Steep learning curve for beginners
• Expensive for small teams
• Lacks native static analysis (SAST) integration

10. Acunetix

Acunetix is a leading dynamic application security testing (DAST) scanner for Windows and macOS, built for developers and security teams. It seamlessly connects with GitHub, Jira, and Atlassian integrations for CI/CD and DevSecOps workflows. Acunetix scans behind logins, supports compliance (HIPAA, SOC2, NIST, ISO 27001). 

Acunetix is best for organizations seeking automated, developer-friendly DAST scanning.  

Pros

• Easy to use with a shallow learning curve
• Deep SDLC integration (GitHub, Jira, Atlassian, CI/CD)
• Compliance-ready reporting for major standards

Cons

• Possible false positives requiring expert review
• Pricing may not suit all budgets

Choosing a DAST Tool: Key Factors to Consider

Choosing the right DAST tool starts with three essentials:

•  Scalability: A tool must grow with your applications without slowing down. 
•  Ease of use: It should also connect seamlessly with your CI/CD pipelines.
•  Integration: It should connect with other tools is also critical. 

And while automation speeds up testing, manual validation brings the accuracy required for high-stakes environments.

But selection is not just limited to technical capability, It involves other business-related factors. Check for demos and pay attention to whether it mirrors real-world scenarios. 

You should look for free trials as it allows your team to see how the tool behaves in daily workflows. During this stage, ask direct questions about scalability, vendor support, update cycles, and coverage breadth.

Next, pricing is a crucial part. Some vendors price per app, others per scan, while enterprise licenses cover everything. 

Conclusion

Integrating a DAST tool in the software development lifecycle can make a real difference in the DevSec process.  It can spot issues before attackers do, cutting risks and saving time for developers.

Additionally, each of these DASt tools mentioned in this blog differs vastly in terms of use cases, pricing, and features. Additionally, what works for a small startup might not suit a large enterprise. The best way forward is to experiment, compare, and see which tool fits naturally into your workflow. By making a careful choice now, you give your applications a stronger defense and your team more confidence to move fast without compromising on security.

Ignoring hidden API vulnerabilities can be risky. BugDazz helps you secure APIs with continuous scanning and detailed insights. Move beyond generic tools, test with confidence, and protect your applications. Start a Free Trial Now! 

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