Discover how to effectively exclude directories when scanning your projects in Snyk using the CLI and SCM imports. Learn the differences and best practices here.
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How to Ignore Folders in Snyk for Better Security Scans

When it comes to maintaining the security of your code, using tools like Snyk is crucial. However, you might have faced the challenge of wanting to ignore specific folders during your scans. This can be particularly important in large projects with directories that may not require scanning, like third-party libraries or temporary files. In this guide, we'll explore how to effectively exclude folders when scanning a project with Snyk, whether in the Command Line Interface (CLI) or from a Source Code Management (SCM) integration.

Understanding the Challenge

Excluding directories in Snyk can be confusing due to the varying behavior between Snyk’s different scanning mechanisms: Snyk Code (SAST) and Snyk Open Source. The .snyk file, which is intended for excluding files and directories, behaves differently based on the type of Snyk scan you are performing.

Differences Between Snyk Code and Snyk Open Source

Snyk Code: The .snyk file applies to Snyk Code, catering mainly to static application security testing (SAST).

Snyk Open Source: Additional steps are required to exclude directories during scans when working with open source components, generally when importing from SCM or using CLI.

Step-by-Step Guide to Ignore Folders

1. Using the .snyk File

For Snyk Code scans, you will need to use the .snyk file to specify which directories to ignore. However, keep in mind this will only affect Snyk Code scans.

2. Excluding Directories with the CLI

When you're scanning your project via the CLI, you can easily exclude directories by using the --exclude option. Here's how:

Syntax to use:

[[See Video to Reveal this Text or Code Snippet]]

Usage:

This option is applicable only for the test and monitor commands.

You can combine it with --all-projects and --yarn-workspaces to encompass subdirectories and files that you want to exclude.

Important: Make sure to separate multiple directories with a comma.

3. Ignoring Directories in SCM Imports

When importing projects from Source Code Management systems, Snyk provides a user interface option to specify directories to exclude:

Make sure to look for the "exclude" option during the import process.

Input the directories you wish to ignore in the designated field.

Conclusion

Ignoring folders in Snyk is an essential skill for developers looking to optimize their security scans. Understand the differences between the Snyk Code and Open Source mechanisms and utilize the .snyk file or the appropriate CLI options to correctly exclude directories. Although the current setup can be confusing, staying informed will help you maintain a clean and efficient scanning process.

By effectively managing your scans, you can focus on the parts of your project that matter most, establishing a stronger security posture without the noise from irrelevant files and directories.



Remember, the ability to exclude unnecessary directories not only streamlines your security scans but also ensures that you won’t be bogged down by non-essential vulnerabilities.