What is the Difference Between DevOps and DevSecOps?

The modern era is tech-driven. Look around! You will hardly find a field that does not employ technology. Be it schools or businesses, every sector uses technology in one way or the other for productivity and efficiency. Anticipating the trend, many organizations apply newer techniques to meet the growing demand of users. DevOps and DevSecOps are two new terms in the information technology world. Many tech people often seek DevOps vs DevSecOps for their desired purpose.

While both concepts have been in existence for quite a while, they have become popular buzzwords only recently. So, what are DevOps and DevSecOps? Also, what are their main differences? A comparison between the two concepts will let you know which one applies to a particular field. Plus, you will be able to use and choose the right concept for your career or business, as the case may be.

Table of Contents Understanding DevOps Evolution to DevSecOps How Does DevSecOps Work?  Difference Between DevOps and DevSecOps  Philosophy  Purpose  Goal  Team Skill Set  Challenges DevOps vs DevSecOps: Comparison Table  DevOps vs DevSecOps: How Are They Similar?   1. Collaborative Cultural Similarities   2. The Role of Automation   3. The Role of Active Monitoring Converting From DevOps to DevSecOps Checklist  1. Define Your Goals  2. Assess Your Current Workflow  3. Implement Automation Tools  4. Educate Your Teammates DevOps vs DevSecOps: Which One to Pick? Bottom Line Frequently Asked Questions

Understanding DevOps

The introduction of DevOps came into being after the endorsements from tech experts about the gap between development and IT operation teams. DevOps was coined to bridge this gap and streamline the overall process of software development and delivery by combining developers and IT operations teams.

However, the evolution was not enough. Security threats have always been a major concern for IT experts. Hackers and intruders make every attempt to obstruct the operations of IT organizations from time to time. 

As such, many professionals felt the need for a new concept that encompasses the perks of DevOps while combating threats. This, in turn, gave rise to DevSecOps. This new concept allows developers and IT operations teams to make and deliver software products in a more secure environment, addressing threats at every stage of software development.

Evolution to DevSecOps

Both Cloud and DevOps have multiple benefits to offer in the era of an agile business world. Cloud technology ensures that organizations can access a wide range of solutions and features at a speed that aligns with their needs. With the Cloud, there is no limit on how much functionality an IT company can access. Cloud tech makes it easy to enhance and upgrade features in any environment quickly. 

DevOps, in the same way, supports an agile environment for everybody involved. Both solutions have their benefits to consider for productivity and speed. However, when the Cloud and DevOps come together, they enrich each other’s strengths to make a more compelling offering. 

Clouds are designed and built in a way that allows them to exploit the advantages of all DevOps methods. The Cloud provides tools for centralized deployments and can offer support for DevOps built-in. 

For example, if DevOps teams have to assemble the different components for a solution in a particular way, the Cloud’s advanced automation capabilities can streamline the entire process and make it even more repeatable. This, in turn, saves a lot of time and energy for producing software products.

How Does DevSecOps Work?

DevSecOps is a relatively new concept that alludes to the intersection of security and development within the DevOps framework. DevOps is essentially a set of practices designed to improve and automate the efficiency of software development and its delivery. DevSecOps, on the other hand, applies a more holistic approach, integrating security into each phase of the software development process.

By doing so, DevSecOps tries to reduce the risk of vulnerabilities and enhance the quality and speed of software delivery. DevSecOps includes the use of collaboration and automation tools to streamline workflow and communication between Development, Operations, and Security teams. By including security in the DevOps procedure, DevSecOps helps organizations deliver software rapidly while minimizing the risk of vulnerabilities.

Difference Between DevOps and DevSecOps

While the two concepts are closely related, they differ in many respects. Let us take each difference in great detail.

Philosophy

When it comes to software development, there are two major methodologies DevOps and DevSecOps. Both have their strengths and weaknesses. Deciding which one to follow largely depends on your organization’s needs. DevOps is mostly about efficiency and speed. The focus is to deliver new features as fast as possible without compromising on quality. This approach is perfect for organizations that want to release new software updates rapidly. 

DevSecOps, on the other hand, places a higher emphasis on security. The aim is to prevent vulnerabilities and risks from entering the codebase in the first place. This approach is best suited for companies that handle sensitive data or that are subject to strict compliance regulations. Ultimately, there is no wrong or right answer when it boils down to DevOps vs DevSecOps. The right choice is the one that best meets your organization’s needs. 

Purpose

DevSecOps and DevOps are software development approaches that emphasize communication and collaboration between operations teams and developers. However, there is a key DevOps and DevSecOps difference. 

DevOps aims at optimizing the software development process, whereas DevSecOps also integrates security as a major concern. By including security in the development process from the beginning, DevSecOps helps minimize the risk of vulnerabilities while simplifying compliance with security regulations.

As a result, in the debate of DevOps vs DevSecOps, DevSecOps is mostly seen as a more extensive approach to software development compared to DevOps. Yet, both approaches are better for improving the quality and efficiency of software development.

Goal

DevOps is a new approach that emphasizes collaboration between operations teams and developers. The goal is to improve the efficiency and speed of software development by streamlining the entire process from start to finish.

DevSecOps is essentially a variation of the DevOps methodology that puts a greater emphasis on security. The goal of DevSecOps is also to improve the efficiency and speed of software development. However, with DevSecOps, security has to be considered at every phase of the development process.

Team Skill Set

DevOps teams develop and maintain software that makes up a company’s IT infrastructure. DevSecOps teams ensure the security of that same software. Both types of teams must be highly skilled to be successful. However, there are some prevalent differences between them.

DevOps teams are more focused on the technical facets of software development, whereas DevSecOps teams put a higher emphasis on security. As such, DevSecOps teams have a better knowledge of how to protect software products from attack. They are also more proactive in their approach to security, instead of reacting to incidents after they happen. Ultimately, the decision on the type of team to use depends on the specific needs of an organization.

Challenges

DevOps is a cultural approach that promotes communication and collaboration between development and operations teams, whereas DevSecOps places an added emphasis on security. Both methodologies can lead to improved efficiency and faster release cycles, but DevSecOps faces the extra challenge of integrating security into these streamlined processes.

This can mean including automated security testing into the CI/CD pipeline or defining clear roles/responsibilities for security within cross-functional teams. DevSecOps requires a stronger emphasis on proactive measures to avoid security breaches instead of reactive responses after a breach takes place. Although implementing DevSecOps may require additional effort upfront and resources, it can lead to a more secure product.

DevOps vs DevSecOps: Comparison Table

Parameter	DevOps	DevSecOps
Purpose	DevOps is mainly focused on increasing the quality and speed of software development and its delivery	DevSecOps aims at securing the software development process through early integration of security throughout the software development life cycle.
Processes	The processes in DevOps are continuous integration (CI) and continuous delivery (CD).	The processes in DevSecOps are CI/CD plus additional security-related processes.
Teams	Developers work together with operations teams.	Developers, operations teams, and security teams work together.
Vulnerabilities	Vulnerabilities are not always addressed throughout the development life cycle.	Vulnerabilities are always addressed throughout the software development life cycle.
Tools	Puppet, Jenkins, Chef, Ansible,	Puppet, Chef, Jenkins, Ansible, and security-specific tools such as Veracode, OWASP ZAP Proxy, and Burp Suite.

DevOps vs DevSecOps: How Are They Similar?

Even though there are significant differences between DevOps and DevSecOps, they are similar in many respects. Some of the common similarities are detailed below.

1.Collaborative Cultural Similarities

The DevOps and DevSecOps movements focus on communication and collaboration between teams. Both methods aim to bring together operations and development teams, as well as encompass security into the process. This facilitates a streamlined workflow, where all teams work together towards common goals.

Both DevOps as well as DevSecOps prioritize continuous testing, automation, and frequent deployment to increase responsiveness and efficiency to changes in the project. However, DevOps mainly focuses on applying these principles to operations and development, whereas DevSecOps lays additional emphasis on including security measures throughout the process. Ultimately, both methodologies aim at improving overall productivity and creating safer systems for end users.

2.The Role of Automation

When it boils down to streamlining processes and improving efficiencies, DevOps and DevSecOps are common in various ways. Both prioritize automation in the software development and deployment process, enabling quicker release cycles and better code deployments. 

However, while both concepts aim at incorporating security into every stage of the development process, DevSecOps takes security one step further by integrating security measures particularly meant to protect sensitive data and avoid potential breaches. Although DevSecOps and DevOps share similarities, DevSecOps’s emphasis on security sets itself apart.

3.The Role of Active Monitoring

Both DevOps and DevSecOps actively monitor the software development and deployment process. This includes tracking potential security breaches and errors, as well as evaluating and optimizing performance continually. 

Such constant vigilance ensures a smooth and secure operation for the developer as well as the end user. The primary difference between the two concepts is the focus on security – DevSecOps emphasizes detecting and preventing malicious attacks early.

Moreover, both processes prioritize continuous collaboration and improvement among teams to attain maximum reliability and efficiency. Ultimately, both DevOps and DevSecOps integrate security into every phase of the software development lifecycle.

Bonus: “Also, check out our article to know How Do Agile And DevOps Interrelate in a detailed manner” 

Converting From DevOps to DevSecOps Checklist

Converting from DevOps to DevSecOps can look like a difficult task, but it does not have to be. Here is a checklist to consider while you make the transition.

1.Define Your Goals

Before you begin making changes, take a step back to define your goals. What do you hope to achieve by converting to DevSecOps? Are you seeking improved security or faster deployments? Do you need increased efficiency? Once you know your aim, you can chalk out a plan to get there where you want to be.

2.Assess Your Current Workflow

You will have to make changes to your existing workflow to convert to DevSecOps. Take time to review your current process and find areas that can be improved. Do your security teams and developers have clear communication channels? Are there hurdles in your process? Asking such questions will help you identify areas that need improvement.

3.Implement Automation Tools

Implementing automation tools is one of the best options to enhance efficiency in your workflow. Automation can help with issues like security testing, code reviews, and deployments. By capitalizing on automation, your team can focus on more important chores such as fixing bugs and developing new features.

4.Educate Your Teammates

Educating your team about the new process is another aspect of converting to DevSecOps. Ensure every person on your team knows the vitality of security and understands how to include it in their workflows. Create documentation or hold training sessions that cover everything from secure coding standards to code review best practices. 

By ensuring that every person is on the same page, you can avoid potential problems and confusion along the way.

Converting from DevOps to DevSecOps does not have to be time-consuming or complicated – if you are prepared. Use the above checklist as a guide while you make the transition. Soon enough, you will be reaping the advantages of a more secure development process.

DevOps vs DevSecOps: Which One to Pick?

There are various methodologies and approaches in the field of software development. DevOps and DevSecOps are the two popular options in the industry. So, which one is best for your team? The focus on security is the main difference and comparison of DevOps Vs DevSecOps. DevOps mainly focuses on streamlining collaboration and communication between different departments, with an emphasis on speed and agility.

DevSecOps, on the other hand, integrates security throughout the development process. In the current digital age, where cyber-attacks and data breaches are common, a strong security focus is crucial for your organization’s success. That being said, it may also require extra resources and overhead in terms of processes and training. Ultimately, it depends on your team’s priorities and goals.

For some companies, integrating security right from the start may be worth the extra effort. Others might prioritize flexibility and speed, making DevOps a better option. Whether you select DevSecOps or DevOps, constantly reevaluating your approach and being aware of potential risks can help to ensure successful software development.

Bottom Line

DevOps and DevSecOps are the future of the IT sector. While DevOps aims at streamlining the process of software development and delivery, DevSecOps focuses on security threats throughout the software development life cycle. Both concepts play a vital role for any IT company. This is why DevSecOps and DevOps continue to remain in the limelight. Not only that, the demand for professionals in these fields is expected to grow at an exponential rate. If you wish to make a career in IT, check DevOps vs DevSecOps minutely to make the right decision.

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