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What is secure coding?

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Overview

Secure coding is the practice of writing software in a way that prevents security vulnerabilities from being introduced into applications. It emphasizes defensive programming techniques, adherence to standards, and awareness of common risks such as those listed in the OWASP Top 10.

Secure coding

Why is it important?

Most software vulnerabilities originate from insecure coding practices. Without proper security awareness, developers may inadvertently create flaws that attackers can exploit.

Common issues include:

  • Injection vulnerabilities such as SQL injection.
  • Poor authentication and authorization controls.
  • Insecure data handling, leading to leaks of sensitive information.
  • Hardcoded secrets such as API keys and passwords.

Minimizing these risks at the source reduces the burden on downstream security testing.

How does secure coding work?

Secure coding involves education, standards, and real-time feedback in development workflows.

Best practices include:

  • Adopting standards: Following guidelines such as OWASP and CERT.
  • Using secure libraries and frameworks: Avoiding outdated or unmaintained dependencies.
  • Code review and pair programming: Adding a layer of peer validation.
  • Automated checks: Leveraging SAST, SCA, and IDE plugins for continuous feedback.
  • Ongoing training: Equipping developers to recognize and avoid common pitfalls.

Benefits of secure coding

  • Reduced vulnerabilities: Prevent issues before they occur.
  • Secure coding best practices: Reduce vulnerabilities by following proven guidelines, standards, and patterns that strengthen application resilience.
  • OWASP secure coding: Align development with OWASP standards to proactively prevent the most common and impactful application security risks.
  • Faster development: Less time spent fixing problems later.
  • Compliance support: Align with regulatory and industry requirements.
  • Improved quality: More reliable, resilient applications.
  • Security culture: Developers become empowered defenders.

Secure coding with OpenText Application Security

OpenText empowers developers to build securely from the start:

  • AppSec IDE integrations: Real-time feedback.
  • Integration with Secure Code Warrior: Hands-on, contextual training linked to actual vulnerabilities.
  • SAST and SCA tools: Automated detection of insecure code and risky dependencies.
  • OpenText™ Application Security Aviator™ (Fortify): AI-powered recommendations for faster remediation.
  • Platform orchestration: Unified visibility into developer practices via ASPM.

Key takeaway

Secure coding ensures vulnerabilities are prevented at the source, reducing risk and enabling developers to deliver high-quality, resilient applications.

Related products

OpenText™ and Secure Code Warrior

Accelerate secure coding with risk management and remediation training

OpenText™ Application Security Aviator

Secure smarter, not harder with AI code analysis and code fix suggestions

OpenText™ Static Application Security Testing (SAST)

Find and fix security issues early with the most accurate results in the industry

OpenText™ Core Application Security

Unlock security testing, vulnerability management, and tailored expertise and support

See all products

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