What is the best way to keep your code secure with the latest patches?

I program in Excel VBA a lot. I try to stay away from external code libraries as much as I can because that limits dependencies and allows me to rely on Microsoft to keep the VBA and Office code base updated security-wise. Some of my popular add-ins have an automatic update feature which notifies users of that update automatically.

Easy ITakeaways: Choosing dependencies wisely is your first line of defense. Dependencies are external code libraries or frameworks (think React, Django, or jQuery) that join your project. They bring useful features but can also bring security risks if outdated or poorly guarded. Picture your code castle with a drawbridge, only open for trustworthy knights. Opt for dependencies that are well-supported, well-documented, and respected in the developer community. Don't let too many knights in, though; it could make your castle (code) a labyrinth, tough to navigate and update. For a secure code castle, be the gatekeeper, choose your knights wisely, and your kingdom (codebase) will stand strong! ???????

In the realm of software security, dependencies are like gateways to your code fortress. Choose them wisely, for they can either strengthen your defenses or leave you vulnerable to unforeseen attacks.

When selecting dependencies, it’s not just about choosing well-known or widely-used libraries. it's also crucial to consider the frequency of their updates and the responsiveness of their maintainers to security issues. Lesser-known is the importance of reviewing the commit history and the issue tracker of a dependency's repository. This can provide insights into how quickly and effectively the maintainers respond to vulnerabilities and bugs, helping you avoid dependencies that might leave you exposed.

I totally agree with this, monitoring your dependencies regularly is akin to conducting routine check-ups for your codebase's well-being. Just as we go to the doctor for health check-ups, your code's health relies on keeping your dependencies current and secure. Neglecting this can leave your code vulnerable to potential threats and vulnerabilities. Think of your dependencies as building blocks of your project. If one of these blocks becomes weak due to outdated software or known security issues, it can weaken the entire structure.

While automated tools like Dependabot or Snyk are great for monitoring dependencies, an often-overlooked aspect is the need to monitor not just the direct dependencies but also the transitive (indirect) dependencies. Transitive dependencies can introduce vulnerabilities that are harder to detect and manage. Regularly performing a full dependency tree analysis can help uncover hidden risks that might not be flagged by surface-level checks.

Easy ITakeaways: Keeping your code safe is like guarding a treasure, and monitoring dependencies is your watchtower. Regular checks for new versions and potential threats keep your castle secure. Tools like npm audit, pipenv check, or GitHub Dependabot act as vigilant guards, scanning for vulnerabilities and suggesting updates. Think of it as receiving scrolls with news of the realm. Subscribe to newsletters, blogs, or forums for the latest tech tales. This information guides your strategy, helping you prioritize critical updates and fortify your castle against potential threats. To guard your code treasure, be the watchtower, regularly scan the horizon, stay informed, and fortify your defenses! ???????

Check dependencies regularly to make sure they are up-to-date, secure, and compatible with your project. This helps eliminate weaknesses and improve efficiency.

In the ever-evolving landscape of software security, vigilance is your shield. Regularly monitor your dependencies for vulnerabilities, for they are the weak links in your digital armor.

This is very crucial in any step. I would also caution you to constantly check documentation to know what exactly changed and see if the change is necessary. Sometimes quick updating might introduce bugs instead of fixing so always take time to read through the documentation.

Easy ITakeaways: Securing your code is a journey, and testing your patches is like road-testing a trusty steed before a grand quest. This step ensures your changes don't introduce new foes to your kingdom. Think of automated testing tools as magical guardians. Unit tests, integration tests, and end-to-end tests ensure your code's functionality and quality. For an extra layer of protection, enlist manual testing methods like code reviews, peer feedback, and user testing. This ensures not only the security but also the usability of your code. In the world of coding adventures, testing your patches is your final check before the grand deployment. Ensure a smooth quest by riding with a tested and trusted steed! ???????

In the realm of software security, testing is your crucible. Forge your patches in the flames of rigorous testing, for only then can you unleash them upon the world with confidence.

Easy ITakeaways: In the realm of coding sorcery, automating your patching process is like wielding a magical wand: time-saving, error-reducing, and code-consistency ensurer. Imagine using tools like Git, Jenkins, or Travis CI as your enchanted spells. These tools create workflows that fetch, apply, test, and deploy your patches seamlessly. For added enchantment, deploy tools like Docker, Kubernetes, or Ansible to manage your patching environment and configuration. In the magical world of coding, automation is the key to unlocking efficiency and elevating your code quality to legendary heights! ??????

Easy ITakeaways: To keep your code fortress secure, the wise coder always reviews their patching policy: a set of magical scrolls guiding when, why, and how to apply patches. ???? Your patching policy should be a tome, covering sources and frequencies of patching, criteria for patch selection, and roles for the patching wizards. Include backup spells in case of patching mishaps and document every enchantment. With a carefully reviewed patching policy, your code castle will stand strong against the forces of bugs and vulnerabilities. ??????

Maintaining a minimal set of dependencies in your codebase is a strategic approach to enhance security and reduce potential attack vectors. During a major project at the work, we decided to conduct a thorough audit of our code's dependencies. We employed tools like ReSharper, which proved instrumental by providing insights into where we could trim excess and consolidate our library usage. It was surprising to discover several libraries that were either outdated or no longer in use. By streamlining these components and eliminating the unnecessary ones, we not only reduced potential security risks but also improved the maintainability of our project.

- Continuous monitoring of the codebase : look for vulnerabilities identified in external dependencies, vendor applications or open source codes. [OWASP Top 10, Vendor Patch announcements, Track the latest breaches] - Documentation of implemented frameworks, libraries, components that enable the software product to run : this will help in prioritizing the patching process based on which function requires more attention in case the vulnerability is exploited. - Never rely on quick fixes : immediate updates to the newest version might end up breaking the application. Evaluate the potential impact of the exploitation if the patch is not applied; always test the patch and get the approval; have rollback procedures in place.