Top 10 Open Source Alternatives to Snyk in 2025

The landscape of software development and security continues to evolve, with 2025 bringing a host of robust open-source tools that serve as alternatives to Snyk. These alternatives offer unique features and capabilities for securing software by detecting vulnerabilities in code dependencies. This article explores the top 10 open-source alternatives to Snyk, comparing them on key data points and features.

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1. OWASP Dependency-Check

Description: An open-source Software Composition Analysis (SCA) tool that identifies project dependencies and checks for known, publicly disclosed vulnerabilities.
Key Features:
Scans project dependencies using the National Vulnerability Database (NVD) and other sources.
Supports multiple languages including Java, .NET, Python, Ruby, and Node.js.
Generates reports in various formats (XML, HTML, JSON).
Integrates with build tools such as Maven, Gradle, and Ant.
Provides a command-line interface (CLI) and plugin options.
Data Points:
License: Open-source (primarily Apache 2.0).
Primary Function: SCA - vulnerability detection in dependencies.
Ease of use: Command-line and build tool integration.
False Positives: Can occur, requires manual review.
Community Support: Active OWASP community.
Learn more about OWASP Dependency-Check

2. Semgrep

Description: A fast, open-source, static analysis tool for finding bugs and enforcing code standards. It's highly configurable and can be used for security, correctness, and other code checks.
Key Features:
Customizable rules for defining security and code quality checks.
Supports many languages including Python, Java, JavaScript, Go, and more.
Integrates with CI/CD pipelines, and pre-commit hooks.
Offers a CLI interface and editor extensions.
Fast analysis times.
Data Points:
License: Open-source (Apache 2.0).
Primary Function: SAST - security and code quality checks.
Ease of use: Flexible rule definitions, CLI-friendly.
Customization: Highly customizable rules and checks.
Speed: Fast scan times.
Learn more about Semgrep

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3. OSV-Scanner/OSV-SCALIBR

Description: OSV-Scanner is a vulnerability scanner for open source dependencies, while OSV-SCALIBR is the underlying library for Software Composition Analysis (SCA) and file system scanning. Developed by Google, it is designed to be extensible and supports various ecosystems.
Key Features:
SCA for installed packages, binaries, and source code.
OS package scanning on Linux, Windows, and Mac.
Artifact and lockfile scanning for multiple languages.
Vulnerability detection including weak credential detection.
SBOM generation in SPDX and CycloneDX formats.
Data Points:
License: Open-source.
Primary Function: SCA - dependency vulnerability scanning, SBOM generation.
Ecosystem Support: Supports 11 languages, 20+ package manager formats.
Performance: Optimized for constrained environments.
Integration: CLI and library (Go).
Learn more about OSV-Scanner/OSV-SCALIBR

4. Trivy

Description: An open-source vulnerability scanner for container images, file systems, and Git repositories. It’s known for its ease of use and comprehensive vulnerability database.
Key Features:
Detects vulnerabilities in OS packages and application dependencies.
Supports container images, file systems, and git repositories.
Easy to use CLI and integration with CI/CD pipelines.
Regularly updated vulnerability database.
Can be used for Infrastructure as Code (IaC) scanning.
Data Points:
License: Open-source (Apache 2.0).
Primary Function: Container and dependency scanning.
Ease of use: Simple command-line interface.
Database: Regularly updated vulnerability database.
Integration: Supports CI/CD.
Learn more about Trivy

5. Zed Attack Proxy (ZAP)

Description: An open-source web application security scanner. It's designed for both automated and manual testing of web applications.
Key Features:
Automated scanning for common web vulnerabilities (SQL injection, XSS, etc.).
Manual penetration testing tools.
Extensible through plugins.
Supports intercepting and modifying HTTP/HTTPS requests.
User-friendly graphical interface.
Data Points:
License: Open-source (Apache 2.0).
Primary Function: DAST (Dynamic Application Security Testing).
Ease of use: User-friendly GUI and extensive documentation.
Extensibility: Plugin architecture for custom features.
Manual Testing: Robust tools for manual penetration testing.
Learn more about Zed Attack Proxy (ZAP)

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6. Greenbone OpenVAS

Description: A comprehensive, open-source vulnerability scanner. It is part of the Greenbone Security Manager and is used for vulnerability management.
Key Features:
Extensive vulnerability scanning through regularly updated plugins.
Provides a comprehensive virtual machine for easy deployment.
Reports and manages vulnerabilities.
Supports multiple scan configurations.
Active open-source community.
Data Points:
License: Open-source (GNU GPL).
Primary Function: Infrastructure vulnerability scanning.
Ease of Use: Pre-built VM for easy deployment.
Coverage: Broad vulnerability database through plugins.
Community Support: Active open-source community.
Learn more about Greenbone OpenVAS

7. Wazuh

Description: An open-source security monitoring platform, which includes vulnerability detection, intrusion detection, and log management capabilities.
Key Features:
Vulnerability detection based on frequently updated databases.
Intrusion detection through analysis of endpoint logs.
Security event analysis across networks and cloud environments.
Real-time alerts and reporting.
Endpoint agents for data collection.
Data Points:
License: Open-source (GNU GPL).
Primary Function: Security monitoring, vulnerability and intrusion detection.
Coverage: Monitors vulnerabilities, detects malware, analyzes security events.
Scalability: Suitable for various network sizes.
Real-time: Provides real-time alerts and reporting.
Learn more about Wazuh

8. Nikto

Description: An open-source web server scanner that identifies vulnerabilities, outdated software, and risky files on web servers.
Key Features:
Scans for common vulnerabilities and misconfigurations on web servers.
Checks for outdated server components.
Detects potentially harmful files.
Can save reports in multiple formats.
Fast, but not discreet scanner.
Data Points:
License: Open-source.
Primary Function: Web server vulnerability scanning.
Speed: Fast scanning capability.
Reporting: Supports multiple report formats.
Stealth: Not a discreet scanner.
Learn more about Nikto

9. Retire.js

Description: A free open-source tool for finding JavaScript libraries with known vulnerabilities, useful for SCA.
Key Features:
Detects vulnerabilities in JavaScript libraries.
Supports CLI and browser extensions.
Integrates with build processes.
Uses a regularly updated vulnerability database.
Simple and easy to use.
Data Points:
License: Open-source.
Primary Function: SCA for Javascript dependencies.
Ease of use: Simple CLI, browser extensions.
Database: Regularly updated vulnerability data.
Scope: Focused on JavaScript libraries.
Learn more about Retire.js

10. Bandit

Description: An open-source SAST tool designed to find common security vulnerabilities in Python code.
Key Features:
Scans Python code for common security issues.
Customizable test plugins.
Reports are available in various formats.
Easy to use command-line interface.
Integrates with CI/CD pipelines.
Data Points:
License: Open-source.
Primary Function: SAST for Python.
Ease of use: Simple CLI interface.
Customization: Support for custom test plugins.
Integration: CI/CD integration.
Learn more about Bandit

Important Considerations:

False Positives: Many scanners can generate false positives, requiring manual review and configuration to fine-tune results.
Coverage: Each tool has strengths and weaknesses in terms of languages, types of vulnerabilities, and scan targets.
Integration: The chosen tool should integrate well with your existing development and deployment workflows.
Community Support: Active communities often provide better documentation, help, and updates.
Continuous Updates: Vulnerability databases should be updated frequently for accurate results.
Complementary Tools: Combining different tools (SAST, DAST, SCA) provides comprehensive security.

This list should give you a good starting point for exploring open-source alternatives to Snyk in 2025. Please verify the details and specific features that best suit your project requirements.

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FAQ

1. What is OWASP Dependency-Check used for?

OWASP Dependency-Check is an open-source Software Composition Analysis (SCA) tool used to identify project dependencies and check for known, publicly disclosed vulnerabilities. Learn more about OWASP Dependency-Check

2. What makes Semgrep unique among static analysis tools?

Semgrep is known for its fast analysis times and highly configurable, customizable rules for security and code quality checks, making it a versatile tool for various programming languages. Explore Semgrep

3. What are the primary functions of OSV-Scanner and OSV-SCALIBR?

OSV-Scanner and OSV-SCALIBR are used for scanning software dependencies, binary artifacts, and generating SBOMs to detect vulnerabilities. Discover more about OSV-Scanner/OSV-SCALIBR

4. How does Trivy facilitate vulnerability detection?

Trivy detects vulnerabilities in container images, file systems, and Git repositories with an easy-to-use CLI and integrates effortlessly with CI/CD pipelines. Learn more about Trivy

5. What type of security tests does Zed Attack Proxy (ZAP) offer?

Zed Attack Proxy (ZAP) provides automated scans for common web vulnerabilities and tools for manual penetration testing, with support for HTTP/HTTPS request interception and modification. Explore ZAP

6. What does Greenbone OpenVAS specialize in?

Greenbone OpenVAS offers comprehensive vulnerability scanning through an extensive plugin system, along with a pre-built virtual machine for easy deployment and active community support. Learn more about Greenbone OpenVAS

7. What capabilities does Wazuh have for security monitoring?

Wazuh is an open-source platform that provides vulnerability detection, intrusion detection, and log management with real-time alerts and extensive monitoring capabilities across network and cloud environments. Discover Wazuh

8. What specific vulnerabilities does Nikto scan for?

Nikto is designed to scan web servers for common vulnerabilities, outdated software, and risky files quickly, though it is not a stealthy scanner. Learn more about Nikto

9. What is the focus of Retire.js in vulnerability scanning?

Retire.js focuses on finding vulnerabilities in JavaScript libraries, providing tools for CLI usage, browser extensions, and integration with build processes. Explore Retire.js

10. How does Bandit help secure Python code?

Bandit is an open-source SAST tool that scans Python code for common security issues using customizable test plugins and easy-to-use CLI integration with CI/CD pipelines. Learn more about Bandit

References

About the Author

Violetta Bonenkamp, also known as MeanCEO, is an experienced startup founder with an impressive educational background including an MBA and four other higher education degrees. She has over 20 years of work experience across multiple countries, including 5 years as a solopreneur and serial entrepreneur. She’s been living, studying and working in many countries around the globe and her extensive multicultural experience has influenced her immensely.

Violetta is a true multiple specialist who has built expertise in Linguistics, Education, Business Management, Blockchain, Entrepreneurship, Intellectual Property, Game Design, AI, SEO, Digital Marketing, cyber security and zero code automations. Her extensive educational journey includes a Master of Arts in Linguistics and Education, an Advanced Master in Linguistics from Belgium (2006-2007), an MBA from Blekinge Institute of Technology in Sweden (2006-2008), and an Erasmus Mundus joint program European Master of Higher Education from universities in Norway, Finland, and Portugal (2009).

She is the founder of Fe/male Switch, a startup game that encourages women to enter STEM fields, and also leads CADChain, and multiple other projects like the Directory of 1,000 Startup Cities with a proprietary MeanCEO Index that ranks cities for female entrepreneurs. Violetta created the "gamepreneurship" methodology, which forms the scientific basis of her startup game. She also builds a lot of SEO tools for startups. Her achievements include being named one of the top 100 women in Europe by EU Startups in 2022 and being nominated for Impact Person of the year at the Dutch Blockchain Week. She is an author with Sifted and a speaker at different Universities. Recently she published a book on Startup Idea Validation the right way: from zero to first customers and beyond and launched a Directory of 1,500+ websites for startups to list themselves in order to gain traction and build backlinks.

For the past several years Violetta has been living between the Netherlands and Malta, while also regularly traveling to different destinations around the globe, usually due to her entrepreneurial activities. This has led her to start writing about different locations and amenities from the POV of an entrepreneur. Here’s her recent article about the best hotels in Italy to work from.

About the Publication

Fe/male Switch is an innovative startup platform designed to empower women entrepreneurs through an immersive, game-like experience. Founded in 2020 during the pandemic "without any funding and without any code," this non-profit initiative has evolved into a comprehensive educational tool for aspiring female entrepreneurs.The platform was co-founded by Violetta Shishkina-Bonenkamp, who serves as CEO and one of the lead authors of the Startup News branch.

Mission and Purpose

Fe/male Switch Foundation was created to address the gender gap in the tech and entrepreneurship space. The platform aims to skill-up future female tech leaders and empower them to create resilient and innovative tech startups through what they call "gamepreneurship". By putting players in a virtual startup village where they must survive and thrive, the startup game allows women to test their entrepreneurial abilities without financial risk.

Key Features

The platform offers a unique blend of news, resources,learning, networking, and practical application within a supportive, female-focused environment:

Skill Lab: Micro-modules covering essential startup skills
Virtual Startup Building: Create or join startups and tackle real-world challenges
AI Co-founder (PlayPal): Guides users through the startup process
SANDBOX: A testing environment for idea validation before launch
Wellness Integration: Virtual activities to balance work and self-care
Marketplace: Buy or sell expert sessions and tutorials

Impact and Growth

Since its inception, Fe/male Switch has shown impressive growth:

3,000+ female entrepreneurs in the community
100+ startup tools built
5,000+ pieces of articles and news written

Partnerships

Fe/male Switch has formed strategic partnerships to enhance its offerings. In January 2022, it teamed up with global website builder Tilda to provide free access to website building tools and mentorship services for Fe/male Switch participants.

Recognition

Fe/male Switch has received media attention for its innovative approach to closing the gender gap in tech entrepreneurship. The platform has been featured in various publications highlighting its unique "play to learn and earn" model.