What is the primary focus of security planning in a software development lifecycle (SDLC)?

The primary focus of security planning in a software development lifecycle (SDLC) is identifying and mitigating security risks. This is crucial because as software is developed, it may be exposed to various security threats and vulnerabilities that can compromise the integrity, confidentiality, and availability of the application and its data.

By integrating security planning into the SDLC, organizations can proactively address potential security issues during the design and development phases, rather than trying to fix problems after the software has been released. This approach leads to more robust security postures, as it encourages security considerations throughout the development process, ensuring that security is ingrained in the software from the outset.

Additionally, addressing security risks early in the SDLC minimizes the long-term costs and impacts associated with data breaches and security incidents, promoting a cleaner and safer software product when it is ultimately deployed. Security is not just a final step; it should be a fundamental part of every stage in the development lifecycle.