WebSocket support

AppScan seamlessly handles WebSocket protocols that use messages for data exchange by automatically detecting them and executing the appropriate tests during the scan, without requiring any special configuration.

What is a WebSocket?

A WebSocket is a communication protocol that provides full-duplex communication channels over a single TCP connection. It is designed to facilitate real-time data exchange between a client and a server, allowing for interactive and dynamic web applications. Unlike traditional HTTP requests, WebSockets enable continuous data flow, reducing latency and improving performance for applications such as chat systems, live updates, and online gaming.

WebSocket testing options and limitations

While AppScan automatically detects and handles WebSockets for basic data exchange, the depth of testing varies depending on the scan configuration used:
  • Action-based crawling (ABC): Fully supported through the browser. AppScan identifies sites that use WebSockets and records all messages for testing.
  • Request-based crawling (RBC): WebSockets are not supported because they require a WebSocket client, such as a web browser, which is not available during RBC.
  • Login: If the login mechanism requires the usage of WebSockets, use the Action-based login (recorded or automatic). WebSocket messages cannot be used as in-session requests.
  • Multi-step operations: Supported only when using action-based multi-step operations. The sequence must be played before each test, resulting in a much slower scan.