Learn
LoginRegister
← All tools

CodeQL

Tool manual · Kali & common usage

Web testing · Advanced · Web testing lane

AdvancedSAST
Authorized usage only. Capture and inspect traffic only on systems and networks you own or have written permission to analyze.

What is CodeQL?

CodeQL is semantic code analysis (GitHub) for deep vulnerability queries.

Advanced SAST on supported languages in CI/GHAS.

Official website: CodeQL · Documentation

When do you use it?

  • You need Semantic code analysis for vulnerability patterns.
  • You are following a CYNARKS lab or authorized engagement that calls for CodeQL.
  • You already tried simpler checks and need this tool’s deeper capability.

Who uses it?

  • Cloud security engineers
  • DevSecOps
  • Platform / SRE security

How do you use it? (typical flow)

  1. Install CodeQL using the steps below (prefer Kali package or official installer).
  2. Confirm you have authorization for the target (lab VM, own system, or written scope).
  3. Run --help / man (or the Help section) to see current flags for your version.
  4. Start with a safe example from Basic commands against localhost or an authorized lab target.
  5. Record what you ran, what you observed, and any follow-up (filter, report, remediation).

Help & manual (like man / --help)

Every serious tool has a built-in way to look up flags. Learn these first so you are not stuck memorizing every option.

  1. 1. Docs

    https://codeql.github.com/docs/

Kali Linux

CLI via GitHub CodeQL bundle — heavier than Semgrep.

1. Installation

OSInstallation
Kali LinuxCLI via GitHub CodeQL bundle — heavier than Semgrep.
GitHubCode scanning in GitHub Advanced Security

2. Basic commands

  1. 1. Analyze a cloned lab repo

    codeql database analyze

    Analyze a cloned lab repo

  2. 2. Show help

    codeql --help

    List flags for your installed version (same habit as man/--help).

  3. 3. Short help

    codeql -h

    Alternate help flag when supported.

5. Useful features

  • Query language
  • CI integration

6. Practical examples

  1. Example 1: Analyze a cloned lab repo

    codeql database analyze

    Analyze a cloned lab repo

  2. Example 2: Show help

    codeql --help

    List flags for your installed version (same habit as man/--help).

  3. Example 3: Short help

    codeql -h

    Alternate help flag when supported.

7. Important notes

  • Deep SAST for supported languages.
  • Authorized targets only — labs, systems you own, or written permission.
  • Prefer reading --help / man / official docs for your installed version; flags change over time.

Related course: web application security · bug bounty hunting · Commands: /commands#burp