SBOMs
In May 2021, the U.S. White House issued its Executive Order on Improving the Nation’s Cybersecurity and it has the potential to revolutionize software development. The document contains several technical mandates, including the introduction of a Software Bill of Materials (SBOM), which is a formal record of the components used to create the software product and their supply chain relationships. This requirement is noteworthy because it could result in increased transparency and openness regarding software development. Additionally, it will allow consumers to better understand what packages are being used in a product and to be able to use their own security controls. Moreover, since the SBOM is machine-readable, those controls can be automated. This move is also an indication of embracing open-source software and the security risks and benefits that come with it.
As a software developer, I see the requirement of a Software Bill of Materials (SBOM) as a great thing for several reasons. Firstly, it increases transparency by providing a comprehensive and transparent view of the components used in my software development work, making it easier for me to identify and address any potential security vulnerabilities. Secondly, it improves security by providing a clear record of the software components and their supply chain relationships, helping me implement better security practices and reduce the risk of cyber attacks. Additionally, the SBOM requirement helps me comply with industry regulations and standards, reducing the risk of legal and financial penalties. Furthermore, having a clear understanding of the components used in my software development work, enables me to improve my quality control processes and deliver higher-quality software products. Lastly, the SBOM provides a structured approach to tracking software components, enabling me to streamline my development processes and improve efficiency.
It’s worth noting that the introduction of the SBOM requirement may also have an impact on the open-source software community. The requirement to formally record the components used in software development may increase the need for open-source software developers to keep their components up-to-date and secure, which can be a significant burden for small development teams. This may also lead to increased scrutiny of open-source software components, which could result in more careful consideration of the use of such components in software development projects.
Additionally, the adoption of SBOMs may take some time and may require some investment in tools and processes. Software developers may need to invest in tools to help them generate and maintain SBOMs, and they may need to adjust their development processes to ensure that they are capturing all of the necessary information.
Finally, it’s worth noting that while the SBOM requirement has the potential to revolutionize software development and improve security, it is just one aspect of a comprehensive approach to software security. Other measures, such as security testing, code reviews, and vulnerability management, should also be considered as part of a comprehensive software security strategy.
Roll on SBOMs.