DevSecOps 101
DevSecOps is a term used to describe a set of practices and principles that aim to integrate security into the software development lifecycle (SDLC) in a continuous and automated manner. The goal of DevSecOps is to build security into the software development process from the start, rather than trying to add it on after the fact. This helps to ensure that security is an integral part of the software development process, rather than an afterthought.
DevSecOps relies on automation and collaboration between development, operations, and security teams in order to ensure that security is integrated into all stages of the SDLC. This includes practices such as continuous integration, continuous delivery, and continuous deployment, as well as the use of tools and technologies such as security testing and vulnerability scanning.
By adopting DevSecOps practices, organizations can improve their software development process and build more secure and reliable software. This can help to reduce the risk of security breaches and vulnerabilities, and improve the overall security posture of the organization.
DevSecOps Certifications:
There are several professional certifications available for individuals interested in pursuing a career in DevSecOps. Some examples include:
Certified DevSecOps Engineer (CDE) - This certification is offered by the DevOps Institute and is designed for professionals who have a background in software development and are looking to learn more about integrating security into the software development process.
Certified Secure Software Lifecycle Professional (CSSLP) - This certification is offered by (ISC)² and is aimed at professionals who are involved in the design, development, testing, and deployment of software.
Certified Agile Security Practitioner (CASP) - This certification is offered by the Agile Consortium and is designed for professionals who want to learn how to apply agile principles and practices to secure software development.
Certified Cloud Security Professional (CCSP) - This certification is offered by (ISC)² and is aimed at professionals who are responsible for securing cloud computing environments.
It's important to note that these certifications typically require a certain level of experience and may have other prerequisites, such as passing an exam or completing certain training courses. Additionally, some certifications may have annual fees or require ongoing professional development in order to maintain the certification.
DevSecOps Certifications (Microsoft Edition):
Microsoft offers several professional certifications related to DevSecOps and the integration of security into the software development process. Some examples include:
Microsoft Certified: Azure DevOps Engineer Expert (AZ-400) - This certification is designed for professionals who have expertise in delivering and implementing solutions using Azure DevOps and Azure services. It covers a range of topics, including DevSecOps practices and the integration of security into the software development process.
Microsoft Certified: Azure Developer Associate (AZ-204) - This certification is designed for professionals who have experience in developing cloud-based solutions using Azure. It covers a range of topics related to cloud development, including DevSecOps practices.
Microsoft Certified: Azure Security Engineer Associate (AZ-500) - This certification is designed for professionals who have experience in implementing, monitoring, and maintaining security in Azure environments. It covers a range of topics related to cloud security, including DevSecOps practices.
It's important to note that these certifications typically require a certain level of experience and may have other prerequisites, such as passing an exam or completing certain training courses. Additionally, some certifications may have annual fees or require ongoing professional development in order to maintain the certification.
Free resources to learn DevSecOps:
There are several free resources available for individuals who want to learn about DevSecOps:
The Open Web Application Security Project (OWASP) - OWASP is a non-profit organization that provides a wealth of resources on web application security, including guides and tools related to DevSecOps.
The DevOps Institute - The DevOps Institute offers a range of free resources on DevSecOps, including webinars, podcasts, and articles.
The Cloud Security Alliance (CSA) - The CSA is a non-profit organization that provides a range of resources on cloud security, including guides and tools related to DevSecOps.
The Center for Internet Security (CIS) - CIS is a non-profit organization that provides a range of resources on cybersecurity, including guides and tools related to DevSecOps.
In addition to these resources, there are also many online communities and forums where individuals can learn about DevSecOps and discuss related topics with others. These communities often have members who are experienced professionals who can offer guidance and support to those who are just starting out in the field.
YouTube channels to learn DevSecOps
There are several YouTube channels that provide a range of resources for individuals who want to learn about DevSecOps. Some examples include:
The DevOps Institute - The DevOps Institute is a professional association that offers a range of resources on DevSecOps, including webinars, podcasts, and articles. They also have a YouTube channel where they post videos on various DevSecOps-related topics.
The Cloud Security Alliance (CSA) - The CSA is a non-profit organization that provides resources on cloud security, including guides and tools related to DevSecOps. They have a YouTube channel where they post videos on a variety of topics, including DevSecOps.
The Open Web Application Security Project (OWASP) - OWASP is a non-profit organization that provides resources on web application security, including guides and tools related to DevSecOps. They have a YouTube channel where they post videos on a variety of topics, including DevSecOps.
The SANS Institute - The SANS Institute is a provider of cybersecurity training and certification programs. They have a YouTube channel where they post videos on a variety of topics, including DevSecOps.
There are many other YouTube channels that cover different aspects of DevSecOps, including tutorials on specific tools and technologies, case studies of organizations that have successfully implemented DevSecOps practices, and more. It may be helpful to search for channels on specific topics or tools in order to find resources that are most relevant to your needs.
Bonus:
DevSecOps vs DevOps vs SecOps
DevSecOps, DevOps, and SecOps are all terms that are related to the integration of different functions and processes in the software development and operations process.
DevSecOps refers to the integration of security into the software development process in a continuous and automated manner. The goal of DevSecOps is to build security into the software development process from the start, rather than trying to add it on after the fact. This helps to ensure that security is an integral part of the software development process, rather than an afterthought.
DevOps is a term used to describe a set of practices and principles that aim to integrate development and operations teams in order to accelerate software delivery and improve the overall efficiency of the software development process. DevOps relies on automation and collaboration between development and operations teams in order to achieve this goal.
SecOps is a term used to describe the integration of security into the operations process. The goal of SecOps is to ensure that security is an integral part of the operations process, rather than an afterthought. This includes practices such as continuous monitoring and incident response.
In summary, DevSecOps focuses on integrating security into the software development process, DevOps focuses on integrating development and operations teams, and SecOps focuses on integrating security into the operations process. All three approaches aim to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of the software development and operations process, but they do so in different ways.
Software / Application Lifecycle:
The software or application lifecycle refers to the process of developing, testing, deploying, and maintaining software applications. The lifecycle typically includes the following stages:
Planning: This stage involves defining the goals and objectives for the software application, and determining the requirements and constraints that will guide its development.
Design: This stage involves creating a detailed plan for the structure and functionality of the software application. This may include creating diagrams and prototypes to visualize the application's architecture and user interface.
Development: This stage involves writing the code for the software application, using programming languages and frameworks appropriate for the intended platform.
Testing: This stage involves evaluating the functionality and performance of the software application, and identifying and fixing any defects or issues that are found.
Deployment: This stage involves installing the software application on the intended platform and making it available to users.
Maintenance: This stage involves ongoing support and updates for the software application, including fixing bugs, adding new features, and ensuring that it continues to meet the needs of users.
The software lifecycle is an iterative process, and different stages may be repeated as needed in order to ensure the quality and reliability of the software application. DevSecOps practices can be incorporated into the software lifecycle at any stage in order to ensure that security is an integral part of the process.
Agile
Agile is a term used to describe a set of principles and practices for the development of software and other products. Agile approaches prioritize flexibility, collaboration, and rapid iteration over traditional, more rigid approaches to software development.
The Agile Manifesto, a document published in 2001, outlines the key principles of Agile development. These principles include:
Prioritizing customer satisfaction through continuous delivery of valuable software
Welcome changes to requirements, even if they occur late in the development process
Deliver working software frequently, with a preference for shorter timescales
Collaborate with customers and stakeholders throughout the development process
Build projects around motivated individuals, and give them the tools and support they need
Measure progress through working software
Maintain a sustainable pace of work for the development team
Strive for technical excellence and good design
Keep things simple and focus on what is necessary
Reflect regularly on the development process and identify opportunities for improvement
Agile approaches are often used in conjunction with other methodologies, such as Scrum, which is a framework for implementing Agile principles in the development of software and other products. Agile approaches are designed to be flexible and adaptable, and can be customized to meet the specific needs and constraints of a particular project.
