RASP stands for Runtime Application Self-Protection. It's a security technology designed to detect and prevent attacks on an application in real-time. In contrast to traditional security measures that function outside the application (like firewalls or intrusion prevention systems), RASP works from within the application. It integrates into an application or its runtime environment and intercepts all actions to identify and block potential attacks.
Key characteristics of RASP include
1. Accurate Attack Detection and Prevention
Because RASP functions from within the application, it has a high degree of visibility into application behavior, which results in more accurate detection and prevention of attacks with fewer false positives.
2. Real-time response
RASP operates within the application's runtime environment and can respond to threats in real-time.
3. Visibility
RASP provides detailed information about attacks, including the type of attack, the attacker's tactics, and which part of the application was targeted.
4. Protection against Application-Specific and Zero-Day Vulnerabilities
By analyzing application behavior and context, RASP can identify and prevent attacks that exploit application-specific vulnerabilities, including zero-day attacks.
RASP is, therefore, an important tool for enhancing application security. However, it should be used with other security practices as part of a comprehensive, defense-in-depth strategy. The key to effective security is a layered approach that doesn't rely on a single line of defense.