Principles of Secure Coding

Go to Course: https://www.coursera.org/learn/secure-coding-principles

Introduction

### Course Review: Principles of Secure Coding **Overview** In the rapidly evolving landscape of technology and software development, ensuring the security and robustness of code is not just a good practice but a necessity. The "Principles of Secure Coding" course on Coursera serves as a comprehensive introduction to these vital programming principles. It lays the groundwork for heightened awareness in secure programming by delving into its philosophy, key design principles, and concrete methodologies aimed at cultivating robustness in code. **Course Structure & Syllabus** The course is neatly organized into four modules, each targeting essential aspects of secure coding: 1. **Secure Programming Philosophy** - This module sets the stage by introducing key concepts in secure programming and assessing common problems developers encounter. It distinguishes between robust and secure programming, helping learners understand what to watch for in different scenarios. The philosophical underpinnings provide a strong foundation for the practical aspects explored later in the course. 2. **Secure Programming Design Principles** - Learners dive into eight crucial software design principles, including principles established by security experts like Saltzer, Schroeder, and Kaashoek. Through hands-on activities, such as coding a short program, students actively apply theoretical knowledge to real-world situations. This module enhances the learner's ability to recognize and implement secure design from the ground up. 3. **Robust Programming** - Here, the course addresses the issues tied to fragile programming, underscoring how design limitations can lead to vulnerabilities. Students learn to identify traits of robust versus fragile code and engage in rewriting practices to elevate code quality. This practical approach encourages critical thinking and a deeper understanding of how to structure solid, secure applications. 4. **Methods for Robustness** - The final module introduces techniques that mimic formal methods, contrasting various programming approaches (formal, informal, and ad hoc). Students are challenged to write programs that illustrate the ramifications of poorly constructed code, solidifying their grasp of how attention to detail in coding can significantly enhance security and reliability. **Key Takeaways** The "Principles of Secure Coding" course not only provides theoretical knowledge but also engages students through hands-on programming tasks. You will emerge from this course equipped with clear strategies to enhance the security and robustness of your code. The mix of philosophical exploration and practical application positions this course as a unique learning experience. **Who Should Enroll?** This course is ideal for: - Aspiring software developers and engineers keen on understanding secure coding practices. - Experienced developers looking to update and reinforce their knowledge on secure programming. - Anyone involved in software design and architecture who wishes to implement better security measures in their projects. **Recommendation** I highly recommend the "Principles of Secure Coding" course for anyone serious about software security. It stands out for its structured approach, balanced emphasis on theory and practice, and its relevance to current real-world programming challenges. With increased cyber threats, understanding how to write secure and robust code is invaluable, making this course a smart investment for your professional development. Whether you're a novice looking to build a solid foundation in programming security or a seasoned professional seeking to refine your skills, this course will provide you with the insights and practical know-how you need.

Syllabus

Secure Programming Philosophy

In this module, you'll be able to describe key concepts in secure programming including typical problems and procedures. You'll be able to differentiate between robust programming and secure programming and you'll generalize from philosophies of "what to watch out for" and "where to look" to specific situations.

In this module, you will be able to recall eight software design principles that govern secure programming. You will write a short program, in any language you like, to determine whether the system enforces the Principle of Complete Mediation. You'll be able to apply design principles from Saltzer, Schroeder and Kaashoek to code situations.

In this module, you will be able to explain the issues that can arise from fragile programming. You'll be able to discuss how design issues drive implementation and be able to distinguish between robust and fragile code. You'll be able to explain what can go wrong in fragile code and be able to write a robust version of fragile code.

In this module, you will be able to describe how to use techniques that mimic formal methods to improve the robustness and security of programs. You will also be able to compare and contrast formal, informal, and ad hoc programming methods. You'll be able to write a program to demonstrate how a poorly-written program or library can cause incorrect results.