Investing in web application security is key to keeping your website safe in 2023. But with so many options, knowing which one to choose can be hard. That’s where I come in! This blog post will give you the lowdown on the eight best web application vulnerability scanners for 2023. These are the scanners that I found to be the most reliable and effective at finding and fixing security issues. Whether you’re a small business owner, a web developer, or a cybersecurity pro, this article will teach you everything you need to know.
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In a rush? Download a copy and read it on your own time!
Thank you!
Please check your email for the PDF download. Contact me with any questions.
Best Web Application Vulnerability Scanners for 2023
We’ve discussed what website vulnerability scanners are and their capabilities. Now let’s talk about the best scanners available today. Here’s my list of the best vulnerability scanners you can try in 2023.
Nessus
Nessus is a top-notch vulnerability scanner that helps organizations of all sizes find and fix security issues. They’re the
Using its powerful database of vulnerability checks, Nessus scans your systems and applications thoroughly, looking for any potential vulnerabilities that malicious actors could exploit. It then generates a detailed report highlighting any issues it found during the scan.
The report is designed to be easy to understand, even if you’re not a security expert. It provides detailed information on each vulnerability found, including severity ratings and recommendations for remediation. Nessus even offers tips and tricks on fixing the vulnerabilities it finds, making it a valuable tool for IT and security professionals.
Some of Nessus’ top features:
- Scans your network or host to identify vulnerabilities and misconfigurations.
- Checks your systems against industry standards and regulations like HIPAA, PCI DSS, and CIS
- Provides information on missing patches and recommend fixes.
- Generates detailed reports on the vulnerabilities and compliance issues it finds.
- Integrates with other security tools, such as SIEMs and vulnerability management platforms
Pricing:
Pros
- Powerful tool that can scan for a wide range of vulnerabilities and compliance issues
- Allows users to customize scans to meet their specific needs
- Nessus has a large and active user community that provides support and shares best practice
Cons
- Cost can be high for some users
- False positives:
- Limited automation
Nessus Sign Up
Nessus Sign Up
Check out this Nessus Tutorial if you want to learn how to perform a vulnerability scan fast and easy!
Check out this Nessus Tutorial if you want to learn how to perform a vulnerability scan fast and easy!
ManageEngine
ManageEngine has a vulnerability scanner called Vulnerability Manager Plus. It is a multi-OS solution that provides built-in remediation. With it, you can manage and secure your vulnerabilities from a single console. It features continuous visibility and assessment, as well as effective remediation.
With Vulnerability Manager Plus, you can easily empower your remote and distributed workforce with the necessary tools and resources to protect their safety. This solution can manage vulnerabilities in your networks, regardless of where they are located. It works on all platforms (Mac, Windows, Linux); however, patch management is only available for MacOS.
Some of ManageEngine’s top features:
- It can automatically assess vulnerabilities across endpoints, servers, and network devices
- Provides patch management capabilities that can automatically download, test, and deploy patches to vulnerable systems
- Helps organizations meet compliance requirements
- Provides risk assessment capabilities that allow organizations to prioritise vulnerabilities
- Helps organizations track and manage their IT assets
Pricing:
- Free edition, Professional edition, or Enterprise edition available
Pros
- Supports a wide range of operating systems, including Windows, Linux, and Mac OS
- The tool offers detailed remediation steps
- Easy-to-use and intuitive interface, with easy-to-understand reports.
Cons
- False positives possible
- customer support can be slow
ManageEngine Sign Up
ManageEngine Sign Up
Sonatype
Nexus is a software component analysis tool designed to help organizations identify and mitigate vulnerabilities in their software supply chain. Sonatype, a software supply chain management company, develops it.
Nexus offers two main components for vulnerability scanning: Nexus Repository Manager and Nexus Lifecycle. Nexus Repository Manager is a repository tool that helps organizations manage their software components and dependencies. It also includes a built-in vulnerability scanner that can scan repositories for known vulnerabilities.
On the other hand, Nexus Lifecycle is a policy enforcement tool that integrates with the development process to identify vulnerabilities in the software supply chain. It analyzes the software components used in an organization’s codebase and identifies known vulnerabilities. It can also enforce policies to prevent the use of vulnerable components.
Some of Sonatype Nexus’ top features:
- Ability to integrate with popular development tools such as Jenkins, Eclipse, and IntelliJ
- Policy enforcement for software components, ensuring only secure components are used in the codebase.
- Scalable and able to handle large repositories with many software components.
- Ability to analyze dependencies and identify potential security issues.
- Real-time monitoring of software components for new vulnerabilities.
Pricing:
- Sonatype’s pricing varies, contact me to get started.
Pros
- Provides comprehensive vulnerability scanning
- Offers two different plans for vulnerability scanners
- Scalable and can handle large repositories with many software components
Cons
- Requires a subscription to use
- Has a steep learning curve
Sonatype Nexus Sign Up
Sonatype Nexus Sign Up
Burpsuite
Burp Suite is a tool that helps security experts find vulnerabilities in websites and web applications. It has many different tools and features that can find common and more advanced vulnerabilities, like when hackers try to inject bad code or steal data. It even has a scanner that automatically checks for problems.
Burp Suite is also easy to use because it has a simple interface and helpful guides. Even people new to security testing can start using it immediately. The tool is also customizable; meaning users can add new features to improve it. This makes it flexible and useful for different situations.
Some of BurpSuite’s top features:
- Automated scanning for common web application vulnerabilities such as SQL injection, cross-site scripting, and command injection.
- Ability to detect more advanced vulnerabilities such as Server-Side Request Forgery (SSRF), XML External Entity (XXE), and deserialization vulnerabilities.
- Customizable manual testing tools such as the Intruder and Repeater
- User-friendly interface and extensive documentation that allows even novice users to quickly learn how to use the tool
- Integration with other security tools and workflows, making it easier to incorporate security testing into the development process.
Pricing:
- BurpSuite offers several different pricing plans and offers academic/non-profit discounts.
Pros
- Comprehensive set of tools and features that can detect and exploit a wide range of web application vulnerabilities
- Support for different platforms and environments, including Windows, Linux, and macOS.
- Customizable and extensible architecture that allows users to adapt the tool to their needs and work more efficiently.
Cons
- Some features, such as the scanner, can produce false positives or negatives
- The tool’s versatility and range of features can make it overwhelming for beginners
BurpSuite Sign Up
BurpSuite Sign Up
Acunetix
Acunetix is a popular web application vulnerability scanner that can detect over 6,500 vulnerabilities, including SQL injection and cross-site scripting (XSS) attacks. It offers cloud-based and on-premises versions so that you can choose the best option for your organization. Acunetix also integrates with popular issue-tracking systems like JIRA, GitHub, and GitLab, making managing and tracking vulnerabilities easy.
One of the key features of Acunetix is its ability to crawl and scan modern web applications, including single-page applications (SPAs) and web APIs. It uses advanced technologies like JavaScript to detect vulnerabilities accurately detect vulnerabilities. Acunetix also offers an easy-to-use interface, making it accessible to technical and non-technical users.
Some of Acunetix’s top features:
- Flexible API to integrate with everything else
- 99% customer support satisfaction
- Detect 7,000 + web vulnerabilities
- Native integrations into CI/CD and issue trackers
- Easy to use, intelligent crawling
Pricing:
- Acunetix offers a variety of pricing options, ranging from $3,000 to $8,000 per year.
Pros
- Fast and accurate scanning
- Remediation advice included in reports
- Suitable for both small and large organizations
Cons
- Expensive pricing
Acunetix Sign Up
Acunetix Sign Up
Veracode
Veracode is a cloud-based software security platform that provides various security testing solutions, including web application vulnerability scanning. It uses static and dynamic analysis techniques to scan web applications and detect security vulnerabilities such as SQL injection, cross-site scripting (XSS), and other vulnerabilities.
Veracode is a great choice for web application vulnerability scanning due to its comprehensive testing, accuracy, integrations, scalability, and reporting capabilities.
Some of Veracode’s top features:
- Comprehensive testing of web applications using a combination of static and dynamic analysis techniques
- Scalability to scan thousands of web applications at once, making it an ideal choice for large enterprises with a large number of applications
- Support for multiple programming languages and frameworks, including Java, .NET, PHP, Python, and Ruby
- Continuous testing and monitoring of web applications to ensure ongoing security
- Compliance reporting for various industry standards such as PCI DSS, HIPAA, and SOC 2
Pricing:
- Veracode has custom pricing plans available for clients
Pros
- Accurate identification of vulnerabilities while minimizing false positives.
- Detailed reports that help developers prioritize and fix vulnerabilities quickly, including remediation guidance.
- Advanced policy management and custom rule creation for specific business needs and security requirements.
Cons
- Pricing is relatively high compared to other vulnerability scanners.
- The scanning process can take a long time, especially for large applications
- The user interface can be overwhelming for some users
Veracode Sign Up
Veracode Sign Up
Nexpose (Rapid7)
Nexpose is a vulnerability management tool that helps organizations identify and prioritize security vulnerabilities in their IT infrastructure. It is one of the most powerful and comprehensive vulnerability scanners available. Nexpose provides a detailed and accurate assessment of the security risks present in an organization’s environment.
One of the key strengths of Nexpose is its ability to scan a wide range of assets, including servers, network devices, databases, and web applications. It uses active and passive scanning techniques to identify vulnerabilities, providing a more accurate picture of an organization’s security posture. Nexpose also offers a variety of customization options, allowing users to tailor scans to their specific needs and requirements.
Some of Nexpose’s top features:
- Active and passive scanning techniques to identify vulnerabilities.
- Customizable scanning options to tailor scans to specific needs and requirements.
- Risk-based prioritization of vulnerabilities based on their severity.
- Ability to track remediation progress and monitor ongoing security posture
- Compliance reporting for various regulations and standards, such as PCI-DSS and HIPAA
Pricing:
- Nexpose’s pricing plans aren’t available on their website
Pros
- Comprehensive scanning capabilities that cover a wide range of assets.
- Robust reporting capabilities, with customizable and filterable reports.
- Remediation guidance and recommendations to assist with prioritization and addressing vulnerabilities.
Cons
- Can be expensive for smaller organizations.
- Requires a significant amount of resources, including processing power and storage space
- The complexity of the tool may be overwhelming for some users
Nexpose (Rapid7) Sign Up
Nexpose (Rapid7) Sign Up
Intruder
Intruder is a cloud-based vulnerability scanner that helps website owners identify security vulnerabilities in their web applications, websites, and networks. It scans web applications and networks to detect vulnerabilities that attackers could exploit. Intruder scans for various vulnerabilities, including OWASP Top 10 vulnerabilities, misconfigurations, outdated software, and other potential security issues.
Overall, Intruder is a powerful and effective tool for website owners who want to proactively identify and address potential security vulnerabilities in their web applications and networks. Its ease of use, comprehensive scanning, and automated vulnerability detection make it one of the best vulnerability scanners on the market.
Some of Intruder’s top features:
- Monitor changes to your attack surface
- Run comprehensive security checks
- Effortless reporting and compliance
- Premium customer suppor
- Automated alert system when vulnerabilities are detected
Pricing:
- Essential – $1,215/year
- Pro – $1,958/year
- Custom Pricing Available
Pros
- Designed to be user-friendly and easy to use, with a simple interface
- Automates the vulnerability detection process
- Intruder is cloud-based, which means that website owners don’t need to install any software on their own servers or devices.
Cons
- Reporting options are somewhat limited compared to other vulnerability scanners
- Intruder does not offer an on-premise option
- Limited integration options with other security tools
Intruder Sign Up
Intruder Sign Up
What are web application vulnerability scanners?
For starters, using the term “web application” is just a fancy-pants way of saying “website.” So if you hear someone say something about a web application, they’re talking about a website.
Web application vulnerability scanners are designed to scan your website for vulnerabilities and threats. They are tools that help to identify potential security risks in web applications. These scanners analyze web application code and identify vulnerabilities that hackers could exploit, which enables you to make the necessary changes to secure your site.
Importance of using website vulnerability scanners
Web Applications have become the #1 target for exploiting vulnerabilities (2023 Cyber Security Statistics Trends & Data, n.d.) A web vulnerability scanner is important because it can help prevent security breaches that could lead to data theft, system hijacking, or other malicious activities. Scanning websites for vulnerabilities identifies potential security risks early on, which can help prevent damage before it occurs.
Aside from the obvious (checking your site for vulnerabilities), website owners experience other benefits using web application vulnerability scanners. Let’s take a quick look at some of those benefits:
- Compliance requirements
Many compliance frameworks, such as PCI DSS, require regular vulnerability scanning of web applications. Failing to comply with these requirements could result in fines or other penalties.
- Cost-effective
Manual security testing of a web application can be time-consuming and expensive. Vulnerability scanners can automate much of the testing process, saving website owners time and money.
- Stay up-to-date
Websites and web applications are constantly changing, and new vulnerabilities can be introduced over time. A vulnerability scanner can help website owners stay up-to-date with the latest vulnerabilities and security threats.
- Save time
Vulnerability scanners can save website owners time by automating the testing process and generating detailed reports on vulnerabilities. This allows website owners to quickly identify and remediate vulnerabilities without having to spend time manually testing their website.
- Increase user trust
A website that is known to be secure is more likely to be trusted by users. By using a vulnerability scanner to identify and remediate vulnerabilities, website owners can increase user trust and confidence in their website.
- Avoid reputation damage
A successful cyber attack on a website can lead to reputation damage, which can be difficult and costly to repair. By using a vulnerability scanner to identify and remediate vulnerabilities, website owners can help to avoid these types of attacks and protect their reputation.
- Compliance requirements
Many compliance frameworks, such as PCI DSS, require regular vulnerability scanning of web applications. Failing to comply with these requirements could result in fines or other penalties.
- Cost-effective
Manual security testing of a web application can be time-consuming and expensive. Vulnerability scanners can automate much of the testing process, saving website owners time and money.
- Stay up-to-date
Websites and web applications are constantly changing, and new vulnerabilities can be introduced over time.
A vulnerability scanner can help website owners stay up-to-date with the latest vulnerabilities and security threats.
- Save time
- Increase user trust
A website that is known to be secure is more likely to be trusted by users.
By using a vulnerability scanner to identify and remediate vulnerabilities, website owners can increase user trust and confidence in their website.
- Avoid reputation damage
A successful cyber attack on a website can lead to reputation damage, which can be difficult and costly to repair.
Website owners can help to avoid these types of attacks and protect their reputation by using a vulnerability scanner.
Bottom line? Vulnerability scanning is one of the website security services you don’t want to skimp on.
Summary
That concludes my list of the eight best web application vulnerability scanners you can check out in 2023. If I missed any that you think should be included, please add it in the comments section below! I’d love to hear your thoughts.
What we’ve learned:
- Web application vulnerability scanners are designed to scan your website for vulnerabilities and threats
- Web vulnerability scanner helps prevent security breaches
- Security breaches can lead to data theft, system hijacking, or malicious activities
- We discussed the best web application vulnerability scanners to try in 2023
References:
2023 Cyber Security Statistics Trends & Data. (n.d.). PurpleSec. https://purplesec.us/resources/cyber-security-statistics/
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