What Is a Static Code Analysis Tool?

Without automation, it would take a long time to read, understand, and debug codes. With various static code analysis tools that you can use, we introduce you to static code analysis and identify the types of analysis tools used in the process.

So, what is a static code analysis tool? A static code analyzer is an automated software system used by software engineers to check for any codes‘ flaws. Using specific tools for analysis, an organization can detect defects in codes and debug them early, which saves them the cost of fixing it later. These tools are useful in reviewing codes before the program can be implemented.

There are various static code analysis tools available, and each is unique in structure and functionality. It may be a challenge to choose the one that works best for you. Let us go into the details of static code analysis tools and find some of the most effective ones you can deploy.

 What Is Static Code Analysis

Static analysis is the use of computer software to debug codes before the program is implemented. The process makes it easier and faster for software engineers/ developers to check for any flaws in codes, and since the process is automated, they don’t need to read each line of code.

The analysis helps detect issues such as errors in programming, coding violations, syntax errors, security breaches, and buffer overflows, making it an essential tool in detecting cybersecurity issues. There are various types of static analysis: data analysis, control analysis, failure analysis, and interface analysis, and each type can be deployed in any department of an organization.

An automated system of analysis is easier, faster, and more effective than having people do it. Doing it manually is tedious and may be prone to inaccuracies since we need to scrutinize each code.

When deciding on the static code analyzer to use, it is vital to check that it is the correct code with the required standard to run according to the company’s objectives. Also, check how complex the code is, how well the tool can detect the code’s errors, and whether it is compatible with your programming language.

Types of Static Analysis Tools

The following is a selection of some tools that you can use in static analysis. The tools are compatible with programming languages such as Java, C#, Python, and C++.

• Embold

This software uses high-level technology to analyze data faster and give clear visuals. It employs the use of different lenses for analysis to give the user better software quality. The platform’s high quality makes it fast in reviewing the codes; hence, it is faster in debugging the errors. The software allows the user to run it on IDEA or the cloud.

• Kuiwan

It is an SCA and SAST platform static analyzer that deploys the latest technology and has features that surpass static analysis, making it a vast platform to implement in a DevOps.

• Raxis

This system functions faster and more accurately compared to other software. If you need an analysis tool for security reasons, this platform will efficiently serve your company. You can also retrieve and archive your findings after the codes are reviewed to show management.

• RIPS

Among all other platforms of analysis, only the RIPS is language-specific. It is one of the most thorough, complex tools that quickly detect code errors, making it highly accurate (no noise caused by false positives). The system integrates PHP and Java languages well, and it supports SDLC integration and meets the industry standards.

• PVS studio

This tool integrates well with IntelliJ IDEA, visual studio, and Linux, Windows, and macOS. It debugs errors and detects when the security codes in programs are weak. When done with the analysis, you can import the results to SonarQube.

Before you choose a tool for analysis, ensure that it will run well with your language, you can afford it, and you know it’s the purpose (commercial or open-source).

Differences Between SonarQube and Fortify

SonarQube is a static analysis tool that is open-sourced, used for debugging, and detecting security issues. With the support of over twenty programming languages, it gives an automated analysis of any code. It accurately gives comments, bugs, and detects when the code is duplicated.

Fortify is a software used in testing applications, especially for security reasons. It automatically detects when there are any violations in the rules of any language, especially security-specific guidelines. The tool translates the format of the source code, scans it then gives a detailed report.

SonarQube and Fortify are both static analysis tools; however, they differ in their design and functionality. The table below highlights some of these differences.

Both SonarQube and Fortify are useful static analysis tools with high accuracy in debugging and detecting security breaches. It depends on a company’s preference and whether the programs used are compatible with the tool.

What Is codacy

If you need a tool that provides fast code reviews, codacy will come in handy. It is an automatic system that establishes data patterns to aid software engineers or developers in code reviewing. Codacy is a helpful tool in identifying any security issues and providing your code quality in the process.

The tool has an interface to give you more information about the code you are running. It shows the quality of your project and its progress over time. It also provides information on whether there are hotspots in the code.

By incorporating GitHub, codacy can check for errors, and you can identify the style and complexity of the code. Deploying codacy in your work saves you time when reviewing codes and helps you monitor the quality of your project with time.

Is AppScan Free?

AppScan is a tool for security testing. It automatically runs tests that check for any vulnerabilities in a code and then provides reports on the findings to understand the weaknesses better. The reports provided will guide you in executing the protections required.

There is a standard version of AppScan that you can download and use as a trial for free. With this trial, you can run some scans provided by the application to give you an idea of how to operate the system.

However, you need to buy a personal standard version that you can use for up to a year. With this subscription, you will gain access to controls to aid in reporting and code analysis.

What Is Checkmarx CxSAST?

Another useful static code analyzer is the Checkmarx CxSAST. It helps in checking for errors in the source code and detecting issues with security and regulation compliance. The system works by giving a flow of the code, then checking whether there are any issues.

For each language, the system has a list of security vulnerability issues. You can configure or inquire about other issues yourself through the CxSAST auditing tool; you get either static reports or displayed on the interface.

Not only do you get accurate feedback on your code, but you can also set the system to display false positives. The application allows the user to obtain security reports at any time in the cycle of the project. The CxSAST has an open-source analysis software that supports most languages; hence, an organization can effectively secure its code analysis components.

The software can be integrated into the building of automation tools, software development, and vulnerability management.

Final Word

Deploying a static analyzer lets, you run your code before execution. In this way, you can check for flaws in the code and correct them early hence saves you time and money. Technology allows you to customize the process according to your company’s needs.

With analysis tools such as SonarQube, Fortify, Appscan, and CxSAST, you can automatically and effectively detect the bugs before executing the code.

Such systems are a great asset in each department in the company. Not only does it make it easier for software engineers/ web developers to run their codes, but it is also a necessary tool in handling security issues.