up:: [[Software Development Life Cycle Security]] # Software Development Life Cycle (SDLC) The Software Development Life Cycle (SDLC) is a systematic process used by software developers to design, develop, and test high-quality software. The SDLC aims to produce software that meets or exceeds customer expectations, reaches completion within times and cost estimates, and is efficient and fault-free. ## Key Features - **Structured Phases:** Typically includes phases such as planning, requirements analysis, design, implementation (coding), testing, deployment, and maintenance. - **Methodologies:** Incorporates various methodologies like Waterfall, Agile, Scrum, and DevOps, each with its specific approach to managing software development. - **Quality Control:** Emphasizes regular testing and revision throughout the development process to ensure the final product is free of defects and meets the user's needs. - **Documentation:** Maintains comprehensive documentation to manage the project development effectively and track changes and updates. ## How It Works SDLC works by following a detailed, engineered process that includes several distinct phases: 1. **Planning:** Identifying the scope, resources, and timelines for the project. 2. **Requirements Analysis:** Gathering detailed requirements from stakeholders to ensure the software meets all user needs. 3. **Design:** Architecting the system and software design specifications. 4. **Implementation:** Writing the actual code based on the design documents and best practices in software development. 5. **Testing:** Verifying the software through multiple forms of testing to ensure it is bug-free and meets requirements. 6. **Deployment:** Releasing the completed software to the user or market. 7. **Maintenance:** Performing ongoing support and bug fixing, updating the software as required. ## Problem Addressed SDLC addresses challenges related to the complexity of software development projects, such as managing large teams, meeting client requirements, staying within budget and schedule, and ensuring the quality and security of the software. ## Implications Implementing a structured SDLC helps organizations manage and control the complexities of software projects, ensuring efficient delivery of high-quality software. It also facilitates better project management, team collaboration, and stakeholder communication. ## Impact A well-implemented SDLC enhances project predictability, reduces the project's complexity, minimizes risk, and ensures project compliance and governance, leading to successful software delivery and deployment. ## Defense Mechanisms - **Iterative Testing:** Regular testing phases throughout the SDLC help catch and fix errors early in the development process. - **Feedback Loops:** Continuous feedback from users and stakeholders during early phases to adjust requirements and improve the development process. - **Change Management:** Procedures in place to manage changes in software requirements, scope, and design. ## Exploitable Mechanisms/Weaknesses If not properly managed, phases in the SDLC can become siloed, leading to miscommunications and gaps, particularly between delivered functionality and stakeholder requirements. Poorly defined initial requirements can lead to scope creep and project overruns. ## Common Tools/Software - **Project Management Tools:** JIRA, Asana, and Microsoft Project. - **Configuration Management:** Git, Subversion. - **Continuous Integration/Continuous Deployment (CI/CD) Tools:** Jenkins, CircleCI, and Travis CI. ## Related Cybersecurity Policies - **NIST SP 800-64,** "Security Considerations in the System Development Life Cycle": Provides guidance on integrating security measures into SDLC. - **ISO/IEC 27001:** Outlines best practices for an information security management system (ISMS) that includes SDLC processes. ## Best Practices - Define clear and measurable criteria for each phase to ensure goals are met. - Engage stakeholders regularly to refine requirements and review project progress. - Implement agile practices to accommodate changes and ensure continuous improvement. ## Current Status The SDLC continues to evolve with emerging technologies and methodologies, such as incorporating cloud technologies, AI, and machine learning into development processes, emphasizing flexibility and faster delivery. ## Revision History - **2024-04-14:** Entry created.