Shift Left Security
Shift Left Security is a software development methodology that integrates security practices early in the software development lifecycle (SDLC), typically during the design and coding phases, rather than treating security as a final testing or deployment step. It emphasizes proactive identification and remediation of vulnerabilities to reduce risks, costs, and delays associated with late-stage security fixes. This approach often involves tools like static application security testing (SAST), dynamic application security testing (DAST), and secure coding training for developers.
Developers should adopt Shift Left Security to build more secure applications from the ground up, as it helps catch vulnerabilities early when they are cheaper and easier to fix, reducing the likelihood of costly breaches or rework. It is particularly valuable in agile and DevOps environments where rapid development cycles require continuous security integration, such as in cloud-native applications, microservices architectures, or compliance-driven industries like finance and healthcare. By embedding security into daily workflows, teams can improve overall software quality and meet regulatory requirements more efficiently.