Authentication, Authorization, and Availability | Developing Secure Code | HSC Software Engineering

When developing secure software, it’s essential to consider several core security principles. These principles help ensure that the software protects sensitive information, maintains its integrity, and remains accessible to authorized users. Below are the fundamental software design security concepts that every developer should understand and apply when writing secure code.

1. Authentication

Authentication is the process of verifying the identity of users trying to access the system. It’s about ensuring that the right people are getting in.

How to Implement Authentication in Code:

• Username and Password: Use secure storage for passwords with hashing techniques to keep them safe.
• Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA): Add an extra layer by requiring multiple forms of identification, like a password plus a one-time code.
• Token-Based Authentication: Use tokens, like JWT (JSON Web Tokens), for secure, stateless session management in modern applications.

2. Authorization

Authorization is all about deciding what an authenticated user is allowed to do. It’s the gatekeeper to making sure users can only do what they’re permitted to do.

How to Implement Authorization in Code:

• Role-Based Access Control (RBAC): Set up roles (like admin or user) and assign permissions based on those roles.
• Attribute-Based Access Control (ABAC): Use attributes like location, device, or time to dynamically determine permissions.
• Permission Checks: Always make sure your code checks what users can do before letting them access or modify data.

3. Accountability

Accountability means making sure all actions in the system can be traced back to a responsible user. This helps in keeping things transparent and secure.

How to Implement Accountability in Code:

• Logging and Monitoring: Record user actions, like login attempts and data changes. Make sure logs are tamper-proof.
• Audit Trails: Keep detailed logs that track who accessed or modified what and when.
• Non-Repudiation: Use techniques like digital signatures to ensure users can’t deny their actions.

Wrapping It Up

Incorporating these core security concepts—authentication, authorization, and accountability—is crucial when building secure software. Each principle helps keep the system safe, making sure users can access what they should, without compromising security. By applying these practices, you’ll create software that users trust and that is resilient against threats. Stay secure!