Assessing of software security reliability: Dimensional security assurance techniques

Abstract

Security plays a crucial role in ensuring the reliability of software systems, making a secure and dependable security framework vital for safeguarding software integrity. However, evaluating the dynamic and multifaceted aspects of security presents significant challenges, as various security metrics and factors complicate the assessment of reliability. This study advances the core concepts of software security through the application of security assurance techniques, including vulnerability scanning, code review, penetration testing, threat assessment, control evaluation, mitigation, risk assessment, and configuration review. In the context of the Software Security Reliability Model (SSRM), a framework was developed to enhance software security assurance across different stages. A comprehensive systematic literature review was conducted to identify security challenges, and the STRIDE and DREAD methodologies were applied to model security threats effectively. Additionally, a mathematical CVSS scoring method was utilized for risk assessment. The synthesis of diverse security methods, tools, attack patterns, and systems was analyzed, identifying 15 critical software security terms: authentication, authorization, encryption, access control, network security, application security, data security, incident response, compliance, threat intelligence, privacy protection, third-party risk, cloud security, endpoint security, and identity management. The findings highlight these terms as key contributors to improving software security reliability.