What are DevSecOps Tools?

DevSecOps tools are the software solutions that helps you build, test, and deploy secure applications—without slowing down your pipeline. Think of it as security baked into your workflow, not slapped on top as an afterthought.

It covers everything from scanning your code for vulnerabilities to keeping your cloud infrastructure airtight. The goal? Make security a seamless part of your SDLC, so you can code fast without leaving gaps for attackers. Security isn’t just for security experts anymore—it’s a shared responsibility across DevOps teams and developers.

Why Software Development Teams need DevSecOps Tools 

The increasing complexity of the software development lifecycle

Software development isn’t what it used to be. Modern pipelines are a web of microservices, containers, cloud resources, and new tools. Every moving part is a potential risk, and keeping track of it all feels like juggling chainsaws.

The rise of supply chain attacks and zero-day vulnerabilities

Bad actors are getting smarter. Instead of attacking applications directly, they’re targeting dependencies and CI/CD pipelines. Supply chain attacks like Log4j have shown how a single compromised library can ripple through thousands of applications. Automated tools help catch vulnerabilities before they cause chaos.

The extra need for compliance when selling to big organizations

Big contracts come with big expectations. Enterprises demand proof that your software meets the latest security guidelines. Without the right tools to demonstrate compliance, you’re locked out of those opportunities before you even start.

Benefits of DevSecOps Tools

If you weren't convinced yet, here are 7 reasons why any software company needs to secure their software:

Automated Vulnerability Detection

Finds software vulnerabilities early in development, saving time and costly fixes down the line.

Seamless Integration

Works within existing CI/CD pipelines, so DevOps teams don’t need to overhaul workflows.

Improved Developer Efficiency

Reduces tedious manual tasks, letting developers focus on shipping features.

Faster Compliance

Automates security assessments and reporting for audits, making it easier to meet compliance requirements.

Enhanced Collaboration

Bridges the gap between developers and security experts by embedding security into the software development lifecycle.

Proactive Risk Management

Identifies and addresses security risks before they reach production.

Increased Customer Trust

Demonstrates a commitment to security, boosting confidence in your products.

Image placeholder: The 7 DevSecOps tools benefits explained with a unique icon for each benefit.

Key Features of DevSecOps Tools

DevSecOps tools aren’t just about scanning for vulnerabilities. They bring security automation and intelligence into every step of your software development lifecycle. Here are the key features that matter:

1. Integration with CI/CD Pipelines

Security should fit into your workflow, not slow it down. The best integrated DevSecOps platforms work seamlessly with CI/CD tools like GitHub Actions, GitLab CI, Jenkins, and CircleCI.

2. Automated Security Scanning Tools

Continuous security is a must. Automated tools detect software vulnerabilities in real-time, catching risks before they go live.

3. Code Scanners

Static Application Security Testing (SAST) tools scan your source code for hardcoded secrets, insecure functions, and unsafe dependencies.

4. Dynamic Scanning

Dynamic Application Security Testing (DAST) tools analyze running applications for vulnerabilities like injection flaws and authentication weaknesses.

5. Container Security Tools

Containers introduce unique risks. Container security tools scan Docker images and Kubernetes environments for vulnerabilities, misconfigurations, and runtime threats.

6. Real-Time Threat Intelligence

The security landscape changes fast. Tools that provide real-time threat intelligence ensure your defenses stay ahead of attackers.

7. Manual Security Testing Tools

While automation is essential, some vulnerabilities need a human touch. Manual security testing tools help security teams assess risks that automated scans might miss.

8. Vulnerability Scanning

From application dependencies to infrastructure settings, vulnerability scanning is critical for identifying and mitigating risks across your entire software stack.

Types of DevSecOps Tools

Some vendors overcomplicate software security by creating new categories and buzzwords that all mean the same thing. At Aikido, we don’t play that game.

Every DevSecOps tool fits into one of these:

• ASPM (Application Security)
• CSPM (Cloud Security)
• Both (Tools that secure both applications and cloud environments)

This straightforward approach ensures security teams can focus on protecting applications and infrastructure instead of decoding marketing terms.

We’ll include a comprehensive graphic illustrating the breakdown of security tools into two main categories: Application Security (ASPM) and Cloud Security (CSPM). At the bottom, we’ll list tools that overlap both categories, such as Container Security.