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Application Security

10/6/2020
10:15 AM
Curtis Franklin Jr.
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6 Best Practices for Using Open Source Software Safely

Open source software is critical yet potentially dangerous. Here are ways to minimize the risk.
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Have a Policy

When the organization's de facto policy on software development is "finish it yesterday," it's easy to let other policies languish. But the beginning of security for open source software within enterprise development is having a policy about open source software in enterprise application development.

According to a blog post on Synopsis, the first step in securing software development is to create a clear policy for developers, management, and operations staff regarding the use of open source use within the organization.

As the policy is developed, it presents an opportunity to involve all the stakeholders for application development so they both understand the priorities in reducing risk and provide input about how to reduce risk. That understanding can be the beginning of standard behaviors and practices, as well as the foundation of application security.

(Image: tumsasedgars VIA Adobe Stock)

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Eloisetacos
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Eloisetacos,
 User Rank: Apprentice
10/13/2020 | 6:03:00 AM
Attention to detail 
Thank you for this interesting article. As you say, I agree with bringing his attention to detail carries a great deal of weight when it comes to keeping open source containing projects safe and secure.
linnovate
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linnovate,
 User Rank: Apprentice
10/7/2020 | 6:32:04 AM
Additional safety suggestion
It is true, things can quickly get overwhelming in open-source. Ultimately it comes down to trusting the developers, open communication, and having a great teamwork ethic, working collaboratively together. The one thing I would add is knowing who the contributors are. 
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