What is MobSF & MobSF Live? How to Use and Download the Latest Version (2025)!
Mobile Security Framework (MobSF) is one of the most powerful open-source tools for automating the analysis, pen-testing, and security assessment of mobile applications. Whether you're working with Android, iOS, or Windows apps, MobSF helps you identify security flaws before they become threats.
What is MobSF?
MobSF (Mobile Security Framework) is an automated framework that performs static and dynamic analysis of mobile applications. It's widely used by penetration testers and security analysts to analyze APKs, IPAs, and source code to detect vulnerabilities and misconfigurations.
Core Features:
- Static Code Analysis for Android, iOS, and Windows
- Dynamic Analysis using a built-in virtual environment
- API Security Testing
- Web APIs and CI/CD integration
- Jailbreak/Root detection analysis
What is MobSF Live?
MobSF Live is a new feature that enables live dynamic analysis of mobile apps on real Android devices. It provides an interactive environment where you can test the app in real-time, inspect behavior, log API traffic, and observe permission abuse on-the-fly.
MobSF Live Key Benefits:
- Run and monitor apps on actual Android phones
- Real-time behavior inspection
- Network and API call capture
- Live malware behavior detection
How to Use MobSF:
- Download the latest MobSF version (see below).
- Install Python 3, Java, and Android SDK.
- Extract the MobSF folder and run the server using:
python manage.py runserver
- Open your browser and go to
http://127.0.0.1:8000
- Upload your APK/IPA file or source code to start the scan.
Using MobSF Live:
- Connect your Android device via USB and enable USB Debugging.
- Run MobSF and navigate to MobSF Live in the menu.
- Launch the app on your device from MobSF.
- Monitor live logs, network requests, and behaviors.
How to Download the Latest Version of MobSF (2025):
You can download the latest version of MobSF directly from the official GitHub repository:
Requirements:
- Python 3.8+
- Java JDK 8+
- Android SDK
- VirtualBox (for dynamic analysis)
- Genymotion or real Android device (for MobSF Live)
Final Words
MobSF is an essential tool for anyone serious about mobile app security. With features like MobSF Live, real-time dynamic testing becomes practical and accessible even for small security teams or individual researchers. Mastering this tool can significantly enhance your app auditing capabilities and make your mobile security workflow more efficient in 2025.