As cyber threats increasingly target software development processes, integrating cybersecurity tools into CI/CD pipelines is essential for minimizing vulnerabilities. This research explores the effectiveness, integration points, and costs associated with various commercial and open-source cybersecurity tools within CI/CD pipelines. Through a comprehensive literature review of scholarly articles, industry reports, and case studies, this study categorizes tools—such as OWASP ZAP, Veracode, and GitLeaks—by their application points, assessing their effectiveness and integration challenges. Additionally, hands-on testing with a GitLab CI/CD pipeline will be conducted to validate findings and evaluate the tools’ real-world applicability.

The study adopts a mixed-methods approach, combining literature analysis, empirical testing, and professional interviews with cybersecurity experts. Expected outcomes include a detailed catalog of tools, best practices for integration, and practical recommendations for small to medium-sized organizations seeking cost-effective security solutions. The catalog will cover each tool’s integration costs, points of application, and performance in vulnerability detection. By bridging the gap between development speed and security needs, this research offers actionable insights for developers and security professionals, equipping them to make informed decisions about cybersecurity investments and pipeline protections. This work contributes to the broader DevSecOps movement, providing foundational guidelines that can help organizations enhance their CI/CD security frameworks effectively and affordably.