Dynamic Application Security Testing (DAST) is a security testing method that involves scanning a running application to identify vulnerabilities by simulating real attacks. Unlike SAST, which analyzes the source code or binary, DAST tests the application in its running state without needing access to the code or the binary. Here’s a guide to performing DAST testing:

Set Up the testing environment that closely mirrors production environment. Ensure the DAST tool has the necessary access to the application, including user credentials, to perform authenticated scans if needed.

Configure the tool settings to your project's requirements. For example the scope, target, exclusions, etc.

Run the DAST Scan. Note that DAST scans take longer to scan than SAST since it has to go over the network and is depended on the application server response times.

Analyze the vulnerabilities detected and prioritize the findings based on severity.

Remediate Vulnerabilities by focusing on critical and high-risk vulnerabilities first.

Retest the application to ensure the vulnerabilities have been addressed.

Keep the DAST tool updated with the latest definitions and rules to catch the latest threats.

DAST is an essential part of a comprehensive security testing strategy, helping to identify vulnerabilities that may not be apparent through static analysis alone. It provides a real-world view of application security posture, highlighting potential points of attacks.