When your company is looking at obtaining new software for the business key personnel go through a specific process. If the company decides to do it least some of the programming in-house, this process is called the software development lifecycle. If a business does not make sure that they consider security while going through the different phases of this lifecycle you can leave your company vulnerable to hackers and other types of illegal entry.
Contents
Changing Requirements
During the construction and testing phase of the lifecycle the company may determine to change certain elements of the program. Perhaps this is because the company has reevaluated needs or goals for the software. It can also be because programmers have determined that as it stands the program will not perform required tasks. If the company considered security in the initial phases of the lifecycle development, the needs may change as the program changes. This is why security needs to be considered an essential requirement in all levels of the lifecycle.
Sin of Omission
When a company decides to add or change a software program security changes need to be made. Personnel from IT security should be involved in all phases of software development. They can help let the team know what kind of security procedures will need to be enacted and how this will change existing security measures that are already in place. They can also help create a process to train employees regarding the new security processes. By neglecting to consider security when reviewing the possibility of adding new software, the company is taking an unnecessary risk for exposure.
Lack of Knowledge
When creating a software program in-house a company is placing a lot of responsibility on the shoulders of the programmers. They have to understand not only how to design the new software to meet the company specifications, but they also have to make sure that they are aware of all the possible vulnerabilities. If the IT staff is not up to date on current security procedures they could inadvertently create a vulnerability that a hacker will be able to exploit after the software is launched.
Mixed Bag
Not all new software programs are pure. Some of them contain third-party components as well as in-house programming. When this occurs, not all of the different elements are compatible. This can create vulnerabilities that hackers will be able to exploit. They know that companies often combine different elements when creating web applications and other online software. They may be able to understand the potential vulnerabilities better than your own programmers and will know exactly how to enter and manipulate your system.
Tweaking Creates Vulnerabilities
Once software is programmed and launched the work is not complete. Continuous maintenance and tweaking of the system will be needed in order to make sure that it is performing at optimum levels. When this occurs, programmers can accidentally leave openings for hackers to penetrate in exploit the system. In addition to maintenance and adjustments to the software, a company should also schedule updates for security systems to help make sure that both processes are up to date, running smoothly, and protecting your business.
By creating all or most of the programming necessary for business software companies can help reduce their bottom line and make sure they have a program that meets their specific needs. But if a business does not have an IT staff that is able to not only create the program but analyze it for potential vulnerabilities their company can be at risk. A business can also be at risk if they are not considering security in the different phases of the software development lifecycle. Make sure you protect all of your assets by instituting a process that considers security whenever you make major changes to your business systems.