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How to Use IBM Rational AppScan to Scan and Test Your Web Applications

IBM Rational AppScan is a web application security assessment suite that you can use to identify and fix common web application vulnerabilities. It helps you to scan and test the code of your web applications, whether they are developed with EGL Rich UI, Java, PHP, or any other web technology. In this article, we will show you how to use IBM Rational AppScan to scan and test your web applications for security issues.

What is IBM Rational AppScan?

IBM Rational AppScan is a tool that automates the testing of web applications for security vulnerabilities. It supports various types of scans, such as dynamic analysis, static analysis, interactive analysis, and glass box testing. It also provides comprehensive reports and remediation advice for the detected vulnerabilities.

IBM Rational AppScan can help you to:

• Find and fix security vulnerabilities in your web applications before they are exploited by attackers.
• Comply with security standards and regulations, such as PCI DSS, OWASP Top 10, and ISO 27001.
• Integrate security testing into your development lifecycle and DevOps processes.
• Reduce the cost and time of manual security testing and code reviews.

How to Use IBM Rational AppScan?

To use IBM Rational AppScan, you need to download and install the tool from the IBM website. You also need to have a valid license key to activate the tool. You can choose from different editions of IBM Rational AppScan, such as Standard, Enterprise, Tester, Source, or Mobile Analyzer, depending on your needs and preferences.

Once you have installed and activated IBM Rational AppScan, you can follow these steps to scan and test your web applications:

1. Create a new scan configuration by selecting the type of scan you want to perform, such as dynamic analysis or static analysis.
2. Specify the target URL of your web application and any login credentials or session parameters if needed.
3. Configure the scan options, such as scan scope, scan speed, scan policy, scan profile, etc.
4. Start the scan and wait for it to complete. You can monitor the scan progress and status on the Scan Explorer window.
5. Review the scan results on the Scan Log window. You can see the list of vulnerabilities detected by IBM Rational AppScan, along with their severity, location, description, impact, recommendation, evidence, etc.
6. Export or publish the scan report in various formats, such as HTML, PDF, XML, etc. You can also send the report to other tools or platforms, such as IBM Security QRadar or IBM Security AppScan Enterprise.

Conclusion

IBM Rational AppScan is a powerful tool that can help you to scan and test your web applications for security vulnerabilities. It can help you to improve the security of your web applications and comply with security standards and regulations. It can also help you to integrate security testing into your development lifecycle and DevOps processes. To learn more about IBM Rational AppScan, you can visit the official website or read the documentation.