A web application scanner is a tool designed to identify security vulnerabilities in web applications. It automatically tests the application for common issues such as SQL injection, cross-site scripting (XSS), and misconfigurations. By simulating attacks, these scanners help developers understand potential weaknesses before they can be exploited by malicious users. These scanners can be used during different stages of development and deployment, making them essential for maintaining the security of web applications. Many organizations rely on web application scanners to ensure compliance with security standards and to protect sensitive data from breaches.