Security in Layers: How to Implement DevSecOps

Security shouldn’t just be an after-thought in the maintenance process; it’s something that coders should proactively include in the development process. Adding layers of security as you build ensures a solid foundation for DevSecOps. With a growing focus on data security and privacy, DevSecOps allows for stability from the onset, so that developers don’t have to troubleshoot after a site goes live and clients don’t have to stress.

DevSecOps Goals

DevSecOps adopts the mission that “everyone is responsible for security.” At every level of the development process, teams should have the resources to ensure a safe product. In fact, DevSecOps employs its own manifesto that sums up the basic goals:

• Leaning in over Always Saying “No”
• Data & Security Science over Fear, Uncertainty and Doubt
• Open Contribution & Collaboration over Security-Only Requirements
• Consumable Security Services with APIs over Mandated Security Controls & Paperwork
• Business Driven Security Scores over Rubber Stamp Security
• Red & Blue Team Exploit Testing over Relying on Scans & Theoretical Vulnerabilities
• 24×7 Proactive Security Monitoring over Reacting after being Informed of an Incident
• Shared Threat Intelligence over Keeping Info to Ourselves
• Compliance Operations over Clipboards & Checklists

 

DevSecOps vs. DevOps

Just as the name implies, DevSecOps takes DevOps to the next level with a focus on security. Instead of relying on a single role to take care of security measures, every team member should take it into consideration at every stage of a project. This way, security isn’t just an aspect maintained by operators but rather a priority applied to the overall system. Although it may add an extra step for team members, it will save you a lot of time in the long run. Instead of dealing with embarrassing bugs, glitches, or hacks after deployment, taking the time to practice DevSecOps offers a preventative approach to your project.

Not only does DevSecOps encourage a full-proof project, but it also allows for collaboration and cooperation within your team. Your team will share resources and keep up with latest in data security to enable DevSecOps. A SysAdmin or Security Engineer should be available to answer questions and review projects with a fine-toothed comb.

How to Implement DevSecOps

Document

Documentation should be a key element for any team, whether it’s sales, marketing, development, or security. This allows for consistency across all sectors. For an individual project, start with a requirements document. This will explain the functionality, goals, and any potential security issues surrounding the project. Determine the risk associated with the project and work with clients to see where protection is a priority. For example, if you’re developing an e-commerce website, focus on the transaction process. Be sure to describe the security process for your project and which methods you intend to use to keep data and privacy on lock.

Security at Every Commit Level

Before, during, and after…every stage of the project deserves the same level of attention when it comes to security. Make use of static code analysis, End to End testing, and automated testing to eliminate common security issues. And don’t deploy until your project passes ALL tests! After deployment, maintain security with regular scans and updates.

Use the Agile Approach

The agile approach breaks projects up into digestible “sprints.” Each sprint has a unique deadline, and once one sprint is complete, developers can move on to the next. With the agile approach, vulnerability checks are a bit more manageable, and quality assurance is less overwhelming.

Stay in the Know

Being prepared for anything means having the knowledge and resources to combat the latest threats. Be sure all code is compliant with existing source code. Regular code reviews will highlight any errors in the code that could lead to cyber attacks. There are plenty of online resources including the DevSecOps official blog and advanced training for certifications.

A beautifully designed website loses it’s magic once it’s hacked. Not only does it cause worry among clients and their customers, but it’s also reflective of your team. Search engines prioritize websites that are secure (and penalize those that aren’t). Security is always at the forefront of our minds, whether we’re developing your website from the ground up or hosting your business on one of our servers. Sevaa Group can uncover the weakpoints hiding in your project. Reach out for a free consultation!