GitHub Advanced Security vs Semgrep: Head-to-Head Comparison

Quick Verdict

GitHub Advanced Security is the better pick for GitHub Enterprise customers. Semgrep is the better pick for security teams writing custom rules.

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At a Glance

Feature	GitHub Advanced Security	Semgrep
Best For	GitHub Enterprise customers	Security teams writing custom rules
Pricing	Free for public repos; paid for private repos	Free tier with paid plans
Free to Start	Yes	Yes
License	Proprietary	Open-core
Deployment	Managed cloud	Self-hosted or managed cloud
Link	Visit GitHub Advanced Security	Visit Semgrep

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Detailed Breakdown

GitHub Advanced Security

Security features built into GitHub

Pros:

• CodeQL code scanning
• Secret scanning and push protection
• Native GitHub workflow

Cons:

• Paid add-on for private repositories
• GitHub only

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Semgrep

Fast, rule-based static analysis

Pros:

• Easy custom rules
• Fast scans
• Supply chain and secrets scanning

Cons:

• Advanced features in the paid platform
• Rule tuning needed

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Key Differences

• Positioning: GitHub Advanced Security — security features built into GitHub. Semgrep — fast, rule-based static analysis.
• Licensing differs: GitHub Advanced Security is proprietary while Semgrep is open-core.
• Deployment: GitHub Advanced Security — managed cloud. Semgrep — self-hosted or managed cloud.
• Pricing: GitHub Advanced Security — free for public repos; paid for private repos. Semgrep — free tier with paid plans.
• Signature strength: GitHub Advanced Security — CodeQL code scanning. Semgrep — easy custom rules.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is GitHub Advanced Security better than Semgrep?

It depends on your requirements. GitHub Advanced Security is a strong fit for GitHub Enterprise customers, while Semgrep suits security teams writing custom rules.

Is GitHub Advanced Security free to use?

Yes, you can start with GitHub Advanced Security for free. Pricing model: Free for public repos; paid for private repos.

Is Semgrep free to use?

Yes, you can start with Semgrep for free. Pricing model: Free tier with paid plans.

Can I self-host GitHub Advanced Security or Semgrep?

GitHub Advanced Security is offered as a managed service: managed cloud. Semgrep can be self-hosted. Deployment options: self-hosted or managed cloud.

What are the main drawbacks of GitHub Advanced Security and Semgrep?

GitHub Advanced Security: paid add-on for private repositories; GitHub only. Semgrep: advanced features in the paid platform; rule tuning needed.