Applying Security Programming Patterns

Security programming patterns are recurring solutions to common security design problems in software. Think of patterns such as Secure Factory (for creating secure objects), Secure Proxy (for controlling access to sensitive resources), Secure Chain of Responsibility (for handling security events), Secure Strategy (for flexible security algorithm selection), and Security Context (for managing security state). In security development, specific patterns are also common, such as Secure Façade (to provide a simplified secure interface to complex subsystems) or Role-Based Access Control (for managing permissions).

By using established security patterns, you benefit from proven security best practices: it provides structure, readability, and built-in security controls. Other security developers immediately recognize the intention of the secure code. Such patterns offer template solutions so you don't have to reinvent security wheels, which reduces the risk of introducing security vulnerabilities.

Starting Points

• Security Design Patterns (Microsoft)
• OWASP Security Design Patterns
• Core Security Patterns (Oracle)

Key Points

• It is important to apply security patterns consciously and appropriately – choose a pattern because it helps solve a security design problem, not just for the sake of using a pattern.
• You identify security design challenges in systems and name which security pattern(s) are suitable for addressing them.
• You explain why the chosen security pattern is the best choice for this case and what security advantages it offers.
• You implement the security design pattern correctly, ensuring it meets its intended security purpose.
• You present the use of the security pattern in documentation or diagram form, highlighting its security benefits.