Secure Coding Practices for Developers

Course Description

"Secure Coding Practices for Developers" is an intermediate-level course offered by IBM, designed to equip software developers with essential skills and knowledge in application security. This comprehensive course delves into the critical aspects of writing secure code, maintaining a secure development environment, and implementing best practices throughout the software development lifecycle (SDLC).

The course covers a wide range of topics, including DevSecOps practices, security testing methodologies, OWASP top security risks, and practical strategies for mitigating vulnerabilities. Through a blend of theoretical concepts and hands-on labs, students will gain practical experience in identifying and addressing security threats, ultimately enhancing their ability to create robust and secure applications.

What students will learn

• Identify and mitigate security vulnerabilities in applications
• Implement secure coding practices to prevent data breaches and leaks
• Understand and apply DevSecOps principles throughout the SDLC
• Utilize Static Application Security Testing (SAST) and Dynamic Analysis techniques
• Create and maintain a Secure Development Environment
• Recognize and address OWASP top application security risks
• Perform defensive coding following OWASP principles
• Apply security concepts at various stages of the SDLC
• Develop applications using security by design principles
• Conduct effective security testing procedures

Pre-requisites

The course requires only basic computer literacy. However, a background in software development and familiarity with programming concepts would be beneficial for understanding and applying the course material effectively.

Course Coverage

• Introduction to Security for Application Development
• Security By Design and DevSecOps principles
• Vulnerability Scanning and Threat Modeling
• Static and Dynamic Analysis techniques
• Code Review and Vulnerability Analysis
• Runtime Protection and Software Component Analysis
• OWASP Top 10 Application Security Risks
• SQL Injections and Cross-Site Scripting
• Secure storage of sensitive information
• Code Practices for enhanced security
• Managing Dependencies securely
• Creating and maintaining a Secure Development Environment

Who this course is for

• Software developers looking to enhance their security skills
• DevOps professionals aiming to integrate security practices into their workflows
• IT professionals interested in application security
• Computer Science students seeking to specialize in secure coding practices
• Anyone involved in the software development process who wants to improve their understanding of application security

Real-world Application of Skills

• Develop more secure applications, reducing the risk of data breaches and cyber attacks
• Implement DevSecOps practices in their organizations, improving overall security posture
• Conduct thorough security testing and vulnerability assessments on existing applications
• Contribute to creating and maintaining secure development environments
• Address and mitigate common security risks in web applications
• Enhance their value as IT professionals by possessing in-demand security skills
• Protect their organizations from financial and reputational damage caused by security incidents

Syllabus

• Module 1 - Introduction to Security for Application Development
• Module 2 - Security Testing and Mitigation Strategies
• Module 3 - OWASP Application Security Risks
• Module 4 - Security Best Practices
• Module 5 - Final Exam

(Detailed breakdown of each module is available in the original course description)