Static analysis
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What is Static analysis?
The automated process of inspecting source code to find bugs, security vulnerabilities, or anti-patterns without actually executing the program.
Static analysis tools read code like a highly pedantic reviewer. They parse the syntax tree to identify hidden issues, such as variables that are declared but never used, potential infinite loops, or glaring security flaws like hardcoded API keys. This happens instantly in the IDE or during CI/CD pipelines before the code is ever compiled or run.
How it relates to Orbit
Orbit’s Code Graph and Security surfaces help inspect code structure and deterministic findings. See Memtrace Code Intelligence for details.
When you would use it
You configure static analysis tools to act as an automated first line of defense, catching simple but dangerous errors immediately as developers type.
Common operations
- Scanning a pull request to block code that contains basic SQL injection vulnerabilities.
- Enforcing strict corporate styling guidelines across a massive repository.