DevSecOps is the seamless integration of security into the entire software development and deployment lifecycle. Like DevOps, DevSecOps is as much about culture and shared responsibility as it is about a specific technology or technique. Like DevOps, DevSecOps aims to release secure software faster and detect and respond to security flaws (such as vulnerabilities) more quickly and efficiently.
In this blog, we’ll unpack each of these ideas so you can better understand how your organization can more fully leverage DevSecOps.
What is DevSecOps?
DevSecOps stands for development, security, and operations. It is an approach to software development in which security is integrated into the entire software development lifecycle as a joint task.
DevSecOps is both a cultural and a technological approach. In addition to automating security at every stage of software development, it involves a paradigm shift in thinking that puts security at the center of the process. A true DevSecOps culture includes security checkpoints and testing throughout the software development lifecycle with predefined security guidelines.
DevSecOps should function as built-in security and not one that only works on the edge or perimeter of applications and data.
How Does It Work?
The DevSecOps process seamlessly integrates security practices into the entire software development lifecycle. This includes the planning, design, and coding phases as well as the integration, testing, and deployment phases. Each phase of the DevSecOps process is described in detail below:
Planning and Design
During the planning phase, security requirements and considerations are identified and defined in addition to functional and operational requirements. This includes assessing potential risks, defining threat models, and establishing security controls to mitigate vulnerabilities. In the design phase, the security architecture and patterns are implemented to create a secure foundation for the application.
Code Development
Developers follow secure coding practices and adhere to established coding guidelines and frameworks. They use tools such as Static Application Security Testing (SAST) during the coding process to identify and fix common coding vulnerabilities in real-time. This proactive approach minimizes the introduction of security vulnerabilities from the start.
Integration
When the code is integrated, automated security testing is used. Dynamic Application Security Testing (DAST) tools check the integrated code and dependencies for vulnerabilities by simulating real attack scenarios.
Software Composition Analysis (SCA) tools analyze open-source components and third-party components for known vulnerabilities to ensure their integrity and security. Container security tools assess the security posture of containerized applications and their runtime environments.
Testing
DevSecOps utilizes various security testing procedures to ensure comprehensive coverage. This includes running automated security tests alongside functional tests. Common security tests include vulnerability scans, penetration testing, and security regression testing. The aim is to detect and fix vulnerabilities, misconfiguration, and other security issues before the software is deployed.
Deployment
During the deployment phase, security checks continue to ensure that the production environment maintains its security posture. This includes validating that security configurations and access controls are correctly implemented. Any changes made to the environment are closely monitored to detect and respond to potential security risks promptly.
Operations and Monitoring
Continuous monitoring is a critical aspect of DevSecOps. Security Information and Event Management (SIEM) systems, intrusion detection systems, and log analysis tools are employed to monitor the application and infrastructure for security incidents, anomalies, and breaches. Continuous monitoring helps in the early detection of security threats, enabling rapid incident response and mitigation actions.
Why is DevSecOps Important?
DevSecOps helps identify and address security vulnerabilities early in development, reducing the risk of future data breaches and other security incidents. You can promote a culture of shared responsibility and collaboration among developers, security professionals, and operations staff through such an approach. The DevSecOps approach breaks down the silos, ensuring security is integral to the software development.
Businesses can ensure a compliant product development approach through DevSecOps according to HIPAA, GDPR, and PCI DSS standards. The security controls in the development process can help achieve trust and security throughout software or the system.
Top 5 DevSecOps Tools for Streamlining Secure Software Development
Implementing the DevSecOps principle can be an overwhelming process. Therefore, some important tools can help you achieve security in development and operations.
Some popular DevSecOps tools are:
- OWASP ZAP: It is one of the most efficient tools to scan the vulnerabilities in your software or application. OWASP ZAP has some advanced features that can help you improve the security of your application. The tool is characterized by its real-time analysis and detailed reporting of vulnerabilities with appropriate solutions.
- GitLab: GitLab is an innovative platform that provides solutions for source code management, integration, and deployment of your product. The tools perform security scans using testing tools that ensure quality controls throughout development. GitLab is considered an all-in-one system for developers to create a secure solution or software for you.
- Aqua Security: The platform offers various advanced security scan features and provides tools to minimize security breaches and risks within the application. Aqua Security helps your development team to focus on development activities without having to worry about security vulnerabilities.
- Jenkins: The automation platform that enables smooth development while incorporating security measures. Jenkins ensures the reliability and efficiency of the product or application while mitigating risks. It handles all manual workflow tasks with automated tools and solutions.
- SonarQube: A tool that analyzes the code quality and security of software or an application. The SonarQube tool identifies potential vulnerabilities and violations while improving the overall quality and security of the product. You can easily analyze your code base and identify problems or vulnerabilities such as cross-site scripting or SQL injection attacks.
Conclusion
DevSecOps represents a paradigm shift in software development and focuses on the integration of security practices into the DevOps workflow. By adopting DevSecOps principles and practices, organizations can develop secure, resilient and high-quality software while maintaining agility and innovation.
As cybersecurity threats evolve, DevSecOps provides a proactive approach to security that enables organizations to stay ahead of the curve and effectively mitigate risk. With its focus on collaboration, automation, and continuous improvement, DevSecOps is ready to shape the future of software development and cybersecurity.
Want to see how DevSecOps can transform your development process? Contact BKPlus Software and request a demo. With our cloud DevSecOps solutions, you can achieve the highest levels of security and efficiency. Let’s transform your approach together.
