How can you secure software configuration items?

1 Identify and classify SCIs

The first step to secure software configuration items is to identify and classify them according to their importance, sensitivity, and risk level. You should define clear criteria and standards for what constitutes an SCI, and assign each SCI a unique identifier and a baseline version. You should also categorize each SCI based on its impact on the system functionality, performance, security, and compliance. For example, you can use a classification scheme such as public, internal, confidential, or secret, and apply different security measures accordingly.

2 Implement access control and encryption

The second step to secure software configuration items is to implement access control and encryption mechanisms to prevent unauthorized or malicious access, modification, or disclosure of SCIs. You should define and enforce roles and permissions for different users and groups who need to access, create, update, or delete SCIs. You should also use strong authentication and authorization methods, such as passwords, tokens, biometrics, or multi-factor authentication. Moreover, you should encrypt SCIs both in transit and at rest, using secure protocols, algorithms, and keys.

3 Use version control and change management

The third step to secure software configuration items is to use version control and change management tools and processes to track and manage the changes made to SCIs. You should use a centralized or distributed version control system (VCS) to store, manage, and synchronize SCIs across different environments and platforms. You should also use a change management system (CMS) to document, review, approve, and implement changes to SCIs. Additionally, you should use branching, merging, tagging, and locking features to maintain consistency and avoid conflicts among SCIs.

4 Perform audits and reviews

The fourth step to secure software configuration items is to perform audits and reviews to verify and validate the quality, security, and compliance of SCIs. You should conduct regular audits and reviews to check the status, history, and configuration of SCIs, and to identify and resolve any issues, errors, or vulnerabilities. You should also follow industry standards and best practices for software security and quality assurance, such as ISO/IEC 27001, ISO/IEC 25010, or OWASP. Furthermore, you should use automated tools and techniques to scan, test, and analyze SCIs for potential security risks.

5 Backup and restore SCIs

The fifth step to secure software configuration items is to backup and restore SCIs to ensure their availability and recoverability in case of any disaster, failure, or loss. You should backup SCIs regularly and frequently, using reliable and secure storage media and locations. You should also restore SCIs quickly and accurately, using predefined and tested procedures and tools. Moreover, you should implement a disaster recovery plan (DRP) and a business continuity plan (BCP) to define the roles, responsibilities, and actions for restoring SCIs and the software system in the event of an emergency.

6 Educate and train stakeholders

The sixth and final step to secure software configuration items is to educate and train stakeholders on the importance, value, and best practices of software configuration management and security. You should raise awareness and promote a culture of security among the developers, engineers, managers, users, and customers who are involved in or affected by the software system and its SCIs. You should also provide training and guidance on how to use the tools, processes, and policies for securing SCIs, and how to report and respond to any incidents or breaches.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?