Web Application Security

Web application security is the process of protecting online web services, web apps, and websites from various security threats that take advantage of flaws in the code. It’s an idea of building web applications to work as intended in case of attacks. And because the Internet is global, web properties are vulnerable to attackers from all over the world.

Why is Web Application Security important?

Security of web apps is important to any web-based business. It tests to find security vulnerabilities and the goal is to ensure that the functions exposed are secure. Cross-site scripting (XSS) and SQL injection exploits are the most common types of web server attacks. Early in the development process, as well as during the software development lifecycle, security strategies can be used to improve modern web application security. 

Organizations that fail to protect their web applications can lead to sensitive data loss, legal actions, or weakened business relationships.

Web Application Security Checklist

A web application firewall (WAF) is a system that protects applications from security threats. This solution is programmed to inspect incoming traffic in order to detect attack attempts. They are used to provide firewall-type protection at the web application layer. Most firewalls can be configured and protect from hacker threats. However, you should not rely strictly on firewalls for security – it’s good to consider them only to improve security.

Any web application checklist should include the following procedures:

• Data collection,
• Authentication,
• Cryptography,
• Access denial.

There are many good practice recommendations to avoid unauthorized access control, password leaks, security breaches, and other common vulnerabilities. The Web Application Protection Consortium developed the Web Hacking Incident Database and published open access web application security best practice manuals.

To learn more about web application security, see the blog posts below.