In the realm of rapid software development and adoption, security is both difficult and easy based on the approach you take. It is often hard if one carries on to approach security as always did but it could be simple if there is an ultimate reconsideration of security control in this new ‘agile’ world. In the context of software development, there are two concepts which are consistently asked to advise on. Both the terms are fundamentally different but equally important.
Agile and DevSecOps both address different aspects of the delivery method.
Agile
Agile is a time thumped, repetitive method to software delivery which builds software essentially from the beginning, instead of trying to provide it all at once towards the end. It works through project breakdown into smaller bits of user functionality named user stories, ranking them, and then send in a short two week series called repetitions. Agile also improves the processes and motivates changes in functions and activities of business and development teams to better produce the project imagined by the end user. Agile methodology can be implemented in different ways such as Scrum, Kanban, XP etc.
DevSecOps
DevSecOps recovers the lead time and frequency of delivery results over enhanced engineering practices, supporting a more unified relationship among development, security and operation teams as they work towards continuous integration and delivery. DevSecOps movements, just like DevOps itself, are concerned with generating a new solution for difficult software development processes within an agile framework.
Understanding the Difference
Both DevSecOps and Agile could be implemented for promoting change and teamwork within their particular domain, ensuing a cultural shift in practices. In a perfect environment, an enterprise would use both practices, though it is vital to note that DevSecOps can be implemented in any environment, agile or otherwise.
Agile is a kind of mind-set and its incorporated value promotes a cultural shift, departmental functions, product development, and project management practices. Likewise, DevSecOps also requires a cultural shift. It also focuses on delivery frequency, pushing departmental lines and call for collaboration among development and operation for more effective planning, design, and project release. Moreover, by incorporating security into the coding process (DevSecOps), weaknesses and gaps are exposed early so that remedial actions can be implemented.
With agile frameworks, DevSecOps integrates lean, synergistic practices such as continuous integration and continuous delivery, which motivate and reinforce frequent code check-in, version control, sensible test automation, low risk releases, and feedback. In a DevSecOps environment, a business can take advantage of such practices by saving money and resources through reduced re-work, better operations, automatic testing, better quality and project delivered earlier with less cycle time.
With DevSecOps supporting a “Shift Left” method to software security, DevOps engineers have started to scout for feasible prospect to tie in application security through automation. A major factor which drives the teams to adopt security automation is the requirement for adherence with regulations.
Important Component of DevSecOps
Given below are some of the most important components of DevSecOps.
Code Analysis – it delivers codes in minor bits so vulnerability can be identified rapidly.
Change Management – it increases the efficiency and speed by allowing anyone to submit changes that determine whether it is good or bad.
Compliance Monitoring – get ready for an audit at any time. This means that being in a state of compliance, with collection evidence of GDPR and PCI etc.
Investigating Threats – classify potential threats whenever a code is updated and be able to react quickly.
Assessing Vulnerabilities – recognise new susceptibilities with code analysis and then assess how rapidly they are being responded to and patched.
Security Training – train IT and software engineers with a guideline for fixed routine
Support DevSecOps Culture
Irrespective of their differences in central points regarding cycle delivery, both agile and DevSecOps share related objectives of removing silos, supporting teamwork and offering better and faster delivery. However, DevSecOps is more driven by the engineering function of Development, Security and Operations. Furthermore, by integrating agile practices, firms can better confirm that ordered work is fed into DevSecOps constant release phases. They can plan even better and reflect the engagement of development team in coordinated efforts further ensuring transparency and visibility of the entire delivery cycle.