Like the idea of Secure by Design but not sure where to start? Here are five ways to integrate proactive security principles into your development team’s workflow from day one.

–

01 – Adopt the Security as Code (SaC) methodology

SaC means applying automation and scripting to embed security controls directly in your codebase. This approach lets you automate security checks, policies, and even fixes alongside code changes – making security a seamless part of your development process.

02 – Configure systems with Secure Defaults

That might include strong password requirements, multi–factor authentication, or disabling unnecessary features that could be exploited. These defaults create a secure baseline from the start, reducing risks tied to human error or oversight.

03 – Follow the Principle of Least Privilege

Apply least privilege not just to user accounts, but across all system components. Every user and system element should only have the permissions necessary for their specific role. Minimising access rights early on limits potential damage in case of a breach. Implement precise Role–Based Access Control (RBAC), and regularly audit and adjust permissions.

04 – Separate duties to minimise risks

The Separation of Duties (SoD) principle means no single person should have all the access needed to misuse the system. For example, the developer writing code shouldn’t be able to deploy it to production. Implementing SoD is technically simple but requires thoughtful access control and clear workflow definitions.

05 – Reduce the Attack Surface Area (ASA)

The ASA includes all points where unauthorised users could interact with your system. Reducing ASA means limiting these entry points by cutting non–essential services, trimming unnecessary code, and simplifying processes – steps you can take early to make your system harder to exploit.

–

Implementing continuous security practices, tools, and controls from the start of your software development lifecycle signals that security is a priority – not an afterthought – to your team and customers. The earlier you integrate these principles, the more resilient your products will be.