What type of analysis examines software without executing the programs?

The correct choice is static analysis testing, which is a method that examines the code of software without running it. This type of analysis focuses on assessing the source code, bytecode, or binary code to identify potential vulnerabilities, coding errors, or compliance with coding standards and best practices. It helps developers recognize issues early in the software development lifecycle, which can lead to improved security and quality.

Static analysis tools can analyze various aspects of the code, such as syntax errors, potential buffer overflows, and security flaws, allowing for early detection and remediation of issues before the program is executed. This proactive approach is crucial for establishing secure software design practices, as it enables developers to catch potential problems that could be exploited by attackers or lead to operational failures.

By not relying on program execution, static analysis provides a wider coverage of possible code paths and scenarios, which might not be covered through dynamic testing methods. This capability makes static analysis an essential component of a comprehensive secure software development strategy.