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Why the World Needs More Open Source Security Tools

Open source security tools help developers create more secure software. Developing secure programs is beneficial for everyone because it helps ensure that the personal data of both users and businesses remain safe online. It can also improve developers’ reputations so they can establish themselves as industry experts and secure investors

The Open Web Application Security Project, or OWASP, is a foundation that aims to improve the security of software by supporting impactful projects and making security tools available as developers create open source security software. This guide defines the role of OWASP in this movement and examines why open source tools are beneficial for anyone who uses them.

The Role of OWASP

OWASP plays a vital role in software security. The nonprofit organization helps developers as they conceive, create, operate, and maintain trustworthy applications used online. These applications are open source, so people can access the code and alter it for personal or organizational use. 

Anyone with an interest in cybersecurity can use these tools as they improve the security of their applications and as they build them. There’s also an OWASP top 10 cheat sheet that outlines some of the most critical security concerns for web-based applications so experts can analyze and potentially solve them. The result is a more secure online environment – because the applications people and businesses use won’t have as many vulnerabilities.

Types of OWASP Tools

Developers frequently use open source tools as they consult the OWASP checklist and create solutions to significant security issues. These automated vulnerability detection tools assist developers in improving the security of their code and are also helpful for developers as they design applications for personal or commercial use. Examples of tools available include:

Static Application Security Tools

Static application security tools analyze source code and identify security flaws. Developers can add these tools to their integrated development environments to help detect potential problems early in the development process. Finding security vulnerabilities early on makes them far easier to address than uncovering them later.

Dynamic Application Security Tools

Dynamic application security tools (DASTs) refer to automated scanners that examine web applications for vulnerabilities like SQL injection, command injection, insecure server configurations, cross-site scripting, and path traversal. There are many DASTs available, so developers might have to try a few of them to find one that meets their application’s needs.

Interactive Application Security Testing Tools

These tools are commonly called IASTs. They analyze web applications and APIs. One free popular tool in this category is known as Contrast Community Edition.

Static Code Quality Tools

The code’s quality is directly related to an application’s security, so developers frequently use code quality tools to check things over. These tools scan JavaScript and other coding languages for run-time errors and poor code quality, ensuring developers can repair the vulnerability early in the process.

All these open source tools are great news for software developers because they automatically check the work they’re doing and point out errors. The result is a more efficient coding process and safer software for the end user.

5 Ways Open Source Security Tools Benefit Everyone

Using open source security tools is beneficial to software developers, businesses all over the world, and customers who use these companies.

Security is a major concern for modern businesses, but traditional security solutions are costly and come with proprietary licenses that limit customization. Open source security tools address this problem by providing free, customizable solutions that can be tailored to fit specific needs.

These tools ensure more secure systems as they allow developers to review code, detect bugs and fix vulnerabilities quickly. This in turn helps businesses protect themselves from malicious attacks and data breaches more efficiently. Open source tools also make it easier for IT teams to build their own custom-made solutions and scale them up as needed.

Open source security tools promote collaboration and innovation amongst developers, allowing them to contribute ideas, share knowledge and develop better solutions together. By encouraging open communication between developers, organizations can create better-secured systems that remain up-to-date with the ever-changing landscape of cyber threats.

Developers who employ these tools are also likely to have clients who are happy with the result. The advantages of open source security tools include the following:

1. Faster Resolutions

Open source enables speed because there’s an entire community looking for vulnerabilities and improving the code. Open source tools are constantly evolving, and when a new security risk arises, industry experts can instantly be on top of it. The result is faster resolution to security problems.

2. Added Security

Using open source tools allows software developers to create more secure products for their clients. These tools point out vulnerabilities early in the process, and the techniques they use are up to date, aiding developers throughout the process. This additional security is a positive for businesses and consumers, too, because the software should do a better job of protecting their data.

3. Monetary Savings

Building software from scratch and then debugging it is an incredibly time-consuming and, therefore, expensive process. The tools available through OWASP automate much of this debugging, so developers can save time and money. Companies building software for internal or external use will appreciate these cost savings.

4. More Flexibility

Open source tools provide multiple ways to solve a problem, giving IT leaders the flexibility to stay on top of cybersecurity risks. These tools also eliminate hazards that can arise if a particular vendor doesn’t have a solution to a vulnerability because the open source community has more resources available. 

5. Customizable Solutions

These tools help developers customize their software because they’re applicable in numerous environments. Open source tools aren’t limited to specific programs; you can apply them to almost any program you’re developing to identify issues. You can use the tools however you need them, customizing the process based on your needs. 

All developers should be aware of the effort OWASP is putting into making open source security tools readily available for developers. The result is a freer flow of information and more resources for software developers in all industries. 

Discover How OWASP Can Help Startups Get Funding

Software developers should be aware of these helpful tools, especially if they’re trying to get an application off the ground. The good news is that more investors are looking to the cybersecurity industry because there is so much need for programs offering adequate protection, so it’s possible to secure startup funding. Startups can also use open source tools to their advantage as they develop their cybersecurity mechanisms, giving them a head start on reaching their goals. 

Option3 brings industry-wise investors together with startups in the cybersecurity industry. We help startups secure the cybersecurity venture capital they need while advising investors on how to best receive a return. Contact Option3 for more information on cybersecurity investing.

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