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Albert Glock

The design step in developing software has some unique characteristics. First of all, it’s the only step where drawing pictures of things is the norm. Why is that? What do pictures do that other representations cannot do? Pictures have varying levels of detail; pictures have context. Pictures…paint a picture. Why are these things important? In this course, too, we begin looking at other disciplines (building architecture is a favorite one) for lessons on design.

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What's inside

Syllabus

Common Vulnerabilities and Weaknesses
How to use the CVE and CWE on-line databases to assess threats and mitigations
Specific Design Considerations
Read more
Specific things you can do to create a better design.
Building Security in
Security must be built in to a project, not added on.
A Dramatic Failure
The consequences of a bad design can haunt you forever.
Bitcoin Foundations
A detailed look at the first two sentences of the abstract of Nakamoto's 2009 paper announcing Bitcoin.
The Bitcoin Project
Continuing with the abstract of Nakamoto's Bitcoin paper. More details on how it works and how security is integrated into it.
Simple software compromises
A look into the specifics of two common exploitation techniques--buffer overflow and SQL injections. Even though they're "old", these exploits are still used today!
Final Exam
A comprehensive course assessment comprising of 5 quizzes. Each assessment contains a randomized set of questions from different modules of the course.

Good to know

Know what's good
, what to watch for
, and possible dealbreakers
Explores picture-based representations in design, emphasizing their unique communication capabilities
Examines common vulnerabilities and security considerations, providing practical guidance for secure design
Incorporates lessons from architecture into design, offering a broader perspective on the field
Provides a foundational understanding of Bitcoin, its blockchain technology, and its security features
Offers insights into common exploitation techniques, enhancing awareness of security vulnerabilities

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Reviews summary

Well-regarded security course

Learners say this great security course is very informative with engaging content and is especially good for beginners in the field.
Great for learners new to security.
"Great for people fairly new to the security business"
"early material good for everyone"
Very interesting and informative content.
"Very informative"
"Very interesting course, in terms of content and the delivery"
Could use more modern examples.
"Would be better if can be added examples of modern programming languages like node.js"

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Software Design Threats and Mitigations with these activities:
Review Data Structures and Algorithms
Refresh your foundational skills in data structures and algorithms to strengthen your understanding of the course material on design and implementation.
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  • Review basic data structures such as arrays, linked lists, and hash tables.
  • Practice common algorithms such as sorting, searching, and traversing.
  • Analyze the performance and efficiency of different algorithms using Big-O notation.
  • Solve coding challenges involving data structures and algorithms.
  • Discuss your findings and solutions with peers or online communities.
Review Interface Design Principles
Refresh your understanding of user interface design principles to enhance your ability to create visually appealing and user-friendly designs.
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  • Read articles and books on interface design principles.
  • Analyze examples of well-designed user interfaces.
  • Identify common design patterns and their applications.
  • Experiment with different design tools and techniques.
Analyze Common Software Vulnerabilities
Practice analyzing common software vulnerabilities using online databases like CVE and CWE to improve your ability to identify and address security threats.
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  • Research different types of software vulnerabilities.
  • Use CVE and CWE databases to search for specific vulnerabilities.
  • Analyze the details of each vulnerability, including its description, impact, and mitigation strategies.
  • Develop a process for identifying and addressing vulnerabilities in your own designs.
Seven other activities
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Show all ten activities
Develop a Security Risk Assessment Plan
Create a comprehensive plan to assess security risks associated with your design, helping you identify vulnerabilities and implement appropriate mitigation strategies.
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  • Gather information about the system or application being designed.
  • Identify potential threats and vulnerabilities.
  • Analyze the likelihood and impact of each threat.
  • Recommend measures to mitigate risks.
  • Develop a plan for monitoring and updating the risk assessment.
Vulnerability Database Resource List
Compile a comprehensive list of vulnerability databases and resources, including CVE and CWE, to enhance your ability to stay updated on the latest security threats and vulnerabilities.
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  • Search and identify reputable sources for vulnerability databases.
  • Create a central repository or document to organize the resources.
  • Categorize and annotate the resources based on their focus, scope, and reliability.
  • Include a brief explanation of how to use each database effectively.
  • Share your resource list with others to increase awareness and collaboration.
Attend a Security Audit Workshop
Gain practical experience in security auditing by attending a workshop. This will enhance your ability to identify and mitigate vulnerabilities in software systems.
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  • Research and identify reputable security audit workshops.
  • Register for a workshop that aligns with your interests and skill level.
  • Actively participate in the workshop, asking questions and taking notes.
  • Apply the techniques and knowledge gained in the workshop to real-world scenarios.
  • Share your experiences and insights with others.
Read Nakamoto's Bitcoin Paper
Develop a deep understanding of the foundational principles and concepts of Bitcoin by reading and analyzing its original white paper, which will significantly enhance your comprehension of the course material on Bitcoin foundations.
Show steps
  • Carefully read and comprehend the abstract, which provides a concise summary of the paper's key points and objectives.
  • Analyze the introduction and problem statement, which highlight the need for a decentralized and secure electronic cash system.
  • Study the proposed solution, including the core concepts of blockchain, proof-of-work, and transaction verification.
  • Investigate the technical details of the Bitcoin protocol, focusing on transactions, blocks, and mining.
  • Evaluate the paper's conclusions and implications for the future of digital currencies.
Exploit Mitigation Techniques
Enhance your understanding of common exploitation techniques and their mitigation strategies by practicing and applying them hands-on. This will strengthen your ability to design and implement secure software systems.
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  • Review the theoretical concepts of buffer overflow and SQL injection vulnerabilities.
  • Set up a vulnerable environment using tools like OWASP Juice Shop or DVWA.
  • Execute practical exploitation attempts using techniques like fuzzing and SQL injection payloads.
  • Implement and test various mitigation techniques, such as input validation, data sanitization, and secure coding practices.
  • Document your findings and share your experience with others.
Design a Secure Software Architecture
Apply your knowledge of design principles and security considerations to create a comprehensive and secure software architecture. This will demonstrate your ability to translate theoretical concepts into practical solutions.
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  • Identify and analyze potential threats and vulnerabilities using threat modeling techniques.
  • Select and implement appropriate security controls and mechanisms based on industry best practices.
  • Design a software architecture that incorporates security principles, such as layered defense, least privilege, and separation of concerns.
  • Document your design decisions and rationale clearly.
  • Present your design to peers or industry experts for feedback and evaluation.
Contribute to Open Source Security Projects
Apply your knowledge and skills to make a meaningful contribution to open source security projects. This will provide you with hands-on experience in real-world software development and security practices.
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  • Identify open source projects that focus on security or vulnerability management.
  • Review the project documentation and codebase to understand their purpose and functionality.
  • Identify areas where you can contribute your skills, such as bug fixes, feature enhancements, or security improvements.
  • Submit pull requests or issue reports to the project maintainers.
  • Collaborate with other contributors and engage in discussions on security-related topics.

Career center

Learners who complete Software Design Threats and Mitigations will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Software Developer
You might consider a career as a Software Developer. Software Developers design and build applications, websites, and other software solutions. This course provides a strong foundation for a Software Developer by familiarizing students with common vulnerabilities and threats in software design. It also covers specific design considerations, techniques for building security into a project, and mitigation strategies. Gaining knowledge in these areas can help you become a more effective Software Developer and create more secure and reliable software.
Software Engineer
Software Engineers apply engineering principles to the design and development of software. This course can be highly beneficial for aspiring Software Engineers as it provides a comprehensive overview of software design threats and mitigations. By understanding the potential vulnerabilities and weaknesses in software design, you can develop more secure and robust software solutions. Additionally, the course covers the importance of building security into a project from the outset, which is a crucial aspect of software engineering.
Software Architect
Software Architects design and oversee the development of software systems. They ensure that software meets the needs of the business and is built to be secure and reliable. This course is an excellent resource for Software Architects as it provides insights into common design vulnerabilities and threats. By understanding these risks, you can develop more secure and effective software architectures.
Security Engineer
Security Engineers design, implement, and manage security measures to protect computer systems and networks. This course can be highly useful for Security Engineers as it covers specific design considerations and techniques for building security into software. By gaining knowledge in these areas, you can develop and implement more effective security solutions.
Information Security Analyst
Information Security Analysts identify, assess, and mitigate security risks to an organization's information systems. This course can provide valuable insights for Information Security Analysts as it covers common vulnerabilities and threats in software design. By understanding these risks, you can more effectively identify and mitigate security vulnerabilities in software systems.
Penetration Tester
Penetration Testers assess the security of computer systems and networks by simulating attacks. This course may be useful for Penetration Testers as it provides insights into common vulnerabilities and threats in software design. By understanding these risks, you can develop more effective penetration testing strategies.
Ethical Hacker
Ethical Hackers use their skills to identify and exploit vulnerabilities in computer systems and networks in order to improve security. This course may be useful for Ethical Hackers as it provides insights into common vulnerabilities and threats in software design. By understanding these risks, you can develop more effective ethical hacking strategies.
Security Consultant
Security Consultants provide advice and guidance to organizations on how to improve their security posture. This course may be useful for Security Consultants as it provides insights into common vulnerabilities and threats in software design. By understanding these risks, you can provide more effective security consulting services.
Network Security Engineer
Network Security Engineers design, implement, and manage network security solutions. This course may be useful for Network Security Engineers as it provides insights into common vulnerabilities and threats in software design. By understanding these risks, you can develop and implement more effective network security solutions.
Cloud Security Engineer
Cloud Security Engineers design, implement, and manage security measures for cloud computing platforms. This course may be useful for Cloud Security Engineers as it provides insights into common vulnerabilities and threats in software design. By understanding these risks, you can develop and implement more effective cloud security solutions.
Application Security Engineer
Application Security Engineers design, implement, and manage security measures for software applications. This course may be useful for Application Security Engineers as it provides insights into common vulnerabilities and threats in software design. By understanding these risks, you can develop and implement more effective application security solutions.
Security Analyst
Security Analysts monitor and analyze security events to identify and mitigate threats. This course may be useful for Security Analysts as it provides insights into common vulnerabilities and threats in software design. By understanding these risks, you can more effectively identify and mitigate security threats.
Cybersecurity Analyst
Cybersecurity Analysts protect computer systems and networks from cyber attacks. This course may be useful for Cybersecurity Analysts as it provides insights into common vulnerabilities and threats in software design. By understanding these risks, you can develop and implement more effective cybersecurity solutions.
Information Technology Auditor
Information Technology Auditors evaluate the security of computer systems and networks. This course may be useful for Information Technology Auditors as it provides insights into common vulnerabilities and threats in software design. By understanding these risks, you can more effectively audit the security of computer systems and networks.
Forensic Computer Analyst
Forensic Computer Analysts investigate and analyze computer systems and networks to gather evidence of cybercrimes. This course may be useful for Forensic Computer Analysts as it provides insights into common vulnerabilities and threats in software design. By understanding these risks, you can more effectively investigate and analyze cybercrimes.

Reading list

We've selected 12 books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Software Design Threats and Mitigations.
Provides a comprehensive overview of secure coding practices in C and C++, covering topics such as buffer overflows, format string vulnerabilities, and integer overflows. It valuable resource for software developers who want to learn how to write secure code.
Provides a set of coding rules and guidelines for developing secure software in C. It valuable resource for software developers who want to learn how to write secure code.
Provides a comprehensive overview of software security, covering topics such as security principles, threat modeling, and secure coding practices. It valuable resource for software developers who want to learn how to build secure software.
Provides a practical overview of threat modeling, covering topics such as threat identification, risk assessment, and mitigation strategies. It valuable resource for software developers who want to learn how to design secure software.
Provides a practical overview of software security assessment, covering topics such as vulnerability identification, risk assessment, and mitigation strategies. It valuable resource for software developers who want to learn how to assess the security of their software.
Provides a comprehensive overview of advanced penetration testing techniques, covering topics such as exploit development, network security, and web application security. It valuable resource for security professionals who want to learn how to test the security of their networks and applications.
Provides a comprehensive overview of web application security, covering topics such as SQL injection, cross-site scripting, and session hijacking. It valuable resource for security professionals who want to learn how to find and exploit security flaws in web applications.
Provides a comprehensive overview of Python programming for hackers and pentesters, covering topics such as network programming, web scraping, and exploit development. It valuable resource for security professionals who want to learn how to use Python for security testing.
Provides a comprehensive overview of malware analysis, covering topics such as malware detection, reverse engineering, and threat hunting. It valuable resource for security professionals who want to learn how to analyze malware.
Provides a comprehensive overview of computer security, covering topics such as cryptography, network security, and operating system security. It valuable resource for security professionals who want to learn about the foundations of computer security.
Provides a comprehensive overview of cryptography, covering topics such as encryption, decryption, and digital signatures. It valuable resource for security professionals who want to learn about the foundations of cryptography.
Provides a comprehensive overview of network security, covering topics such as firewalls, intrusion detection systems, and virtual private networks. It valuable resource for security professionals who want to learn about the foundations of network security.

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