(ISC)2 Certified in Cybersecurity Practice Exam

What is a secure development lifecycle (SDLC)?

1. A process for developing software that integrates security into every stage of the development process.

2. A series of testing phases to assess software performance.

3. A method for deploying software updates regularly.

4. An approach focused solely on user experience design.

The correct answer is: A process for developing software that integrates security into every stage of the development process.

A secure development lifecycle (SDLC) is a comprehensive process that emphasizes the integration of security measures at every phase of the software development lifecycle. This approach ensures that security is not merely an afterthought but rather an integral component of the software development process from the initial planning and design stages through to development, testing, deployment, and maintenance. Incorporating security at each stage helps to identify and mitigate risks early, thereby reducing vulnerabilities in the final product. This proactive stance enhances the overall security posture of the software, making it resilient against potential threats and attacks. By embedding security practices like threat modeling, secure coding standards, and regular vulnerability assessments, organizations can deliver robust software solutions that comply with security best practices. The other options focus on aspects that do not encapsulate the essence of a secure development lifecycle. While testing phases and user experience design are important elements of software development, they do not specifically address the security considerations that are central to an SDLC. Similarly, regular software updates are crucial for maintaining security but are more related to post-deployment management rather than the integrated security focus of the SDLC itself.