Security should be integrated into every stage of the software development lifecycle.
Description
The traditional Software Development Lifecycle (SDLC) follows a systematic approach to software creation. The stages include:
- Analysis or Requirements Gathering – Clearly defining the problem or project.
- Design or Planning – Developing a detailed solution.
- Implementation – Writing and running the code to ensure it works correctly.
- Testing – Conducting formal testing and debugging.
- Maintenance – Keeping the program updated and documented.
As security becomes increasingly critical, it must be incorporated into each of these stages.
Develop Responsibly
- Carefully Analyze: Fully comprehend the problem at hand, considering potential security risks as you develop a solution.
- Thoughtfully Design: Develop an algorithm based on your understanding from the previous step.
- Implement with Care:
- Choose a programming language (such as C, C++, Java, Python) based on your preference, keeping in mind the specific security concerns of each language.
- Select a suitable IDE (Integrated Development Environment) toolkit for the chosen programming language (e.g., Visual Studio, NetBeans, Eclipse, DrJava). Many IDEs offer features to detect insecure code.
- Write and compile your program, resolving any syntax errors and warnings issued by the compiler.
- Thoroughly Test: Execute your program and scrutinize the output. Test the program with both valid and invalid inputs.
- Diligent Maintenance: Keep your code updated to reflect changes. Ensure your code is well-documented, properly formatted, and easy to read.
Security Checklist
Checklists are used by airline pilots, in emergency rooms in hospitals, and increasingly in the software industry, to enforce safety procedures. IF you wish to inculcate this process into your development cycle, as yourself these questions and make sure you satisfy them.
- Do you consider security during the analysis phase when defining the problem?
- Do you consider security during the design phase?
- Do you consider security during the implementation phase?
- Do you consider security during the testing phase?
- Do you consider security during the maintenance phase?
- Do you consider security throughout the entire SDLC?
