Implementing a secure software system can be divided into several stages. These include Threat Modeling, Security Configuration, Planning, Verification, Decommission, and Retirement. Depending on the project’s scope, these can be followed from small to large.
Planning
Security is an integral part of developing modern software. While the software industry will always be subject to threats, a robust security process is essential. To make the process streamlined, it is important to follow best practices.
First, ensure you have a solid grasp of the processes to develop secure software. This will help you identify strengths and weaknesses. In addition, you can learn about common frameworks that can guide your development efforts.
Next, define your project’s objectives. Defining your goals will help you determine your needed resources and budget. You will also want to identify your end-users.
Finally, implement automated detection tools in your secure SDLC. These tools are designed to find and reduce vulnerabilities in your software.
Security Configuration
The Secure Software Development Lifecycle is building and maintaining software. It consists of several steps and requires attention to detail. Solid communication between end users and security personnel is essential. Keeping an open mind is vital to making this process a success.
As every software is a part of business processes, it is critical to incorporate security throughout the SDLC. This includes identifying and addressing high-level issues like compliance. In addition, it is important to keep the security features enabled and configured correctly.
The Secure Software Development Lifecycle aims to make security everybody’s responsibility. To this end, it integrates risk analysis into the design and development process. Deploying additional monitoring tooling minimizes the impact of security vulnerabilities.
Secure SDLC is used by companies that want to provide a more strategic methodology for developing and delivering software. For example, Microsoft’s Trustworthy Computing SDL articulates key security elements into the development lifecycle.
Verification
The process of verification is a crucial stage in secure software development. Identifying security threats early and implementing a comprehensive approach is crucial to a successful, secure SDLC.
Each development team member must have a security mindset when defining the requirements of a project. This approach is especially helpful for larger applications. A lack of understanding of security considerations in a project could lead to an error that puts the organization’s information at risk.
One of the first stages in the secure SDLC is planning. It includes identifying vulnerabilities, purchasing the appropriate technologies, and determining cost and time estimates. An organization may also need to hire a security expert.
Decommission/Retirement
Decommissioning or retiring software is a process that can be done in various ways. It depends on the type of asset and the circumstances of operation.
Decommissioning and retiring assets may be necessary if unused hardware, servers, and other IT assets cannot meet current business requirements. Organizations that delay decommissioning or retirement of these assets put their data and applications at risk. They incur costs and reduce productivity.
Decommissioning/retiring is a process that should be planned. An effective strategy involves assessing the lifespan of each component. The goal is to identify risks and develop a plan to mitigate them.
