How can security scanners be incorporated into GitLab projects?

Incorporating security scanners into GitLab projects can effectively be achieved by using the includes -template feature in the .gitlab-ci.yml file. This method allows teams to leverage pre-defined security scanning templates provided by GitLab, which can automate the process of detecting vulnerabilities in the code during the continuous integration/continuous deployment (CI/CD) pipeline. By specifying these templates in the .gitlab-ci.yml file, teams can ensure that security checks are systematically integrated into their workflow without the need for extensive manual configuration.

This approach facilitates a streamlined process where security scans can be triggered automatically as part of the CI/CD pipeline, enabling developers to identify and address vulnerabilities early in the development cycle. Additionally, using these templates helps maintain consistency across projects and reduces the likelihood of human error in setting up security scanning configurations.

In contrast, compiling a separate application or directly adding executable files does not inherently provide the integration necessary to perform security scanning within the GitLab CI/CD context. Furthermore, while manual code reviews are a valuable part of maintaining code quality and security, they are not an automated or systematic form of scanning, which is what the question specifically addresses.