https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vZ5sLwtJmcU To navigate the complexity of contemporary software development requires a thorough, multi-faceted approach to application security (AppSec) which goes beyond the simple scanning of vulnerabilities and remediation. A holistic, proactive approach is needed to incorporate security into all stages of development. The constantly evolving threat landscape as well as the growing complexity of software architectures have prompted the necessity for a proactive, holistic approach. This comprehensive guide explains the essential components, best practices and the latest technologies that make up the highly efficient AppSec program that empowers organizations to safeguard their software assets, limit risks, and foster an environment of security-first development. The success of an AppSec program is built on a fundamental change in mindset. Security should be viewed as a key element of the development process, and not just an afterthought. This fundamental shift in perspective requires a close partnership between security, developers, operations, and others. It breaks down silos and creates a sense of sharing responsibility, and encourages a collaborative approach to the security of apps that they develop, deploy or manage. Through embracing an DevSecOps approach, organizations can integrate security into the fabric of their development processes and ensure that security concerns are taken into consideration from the very first phases of design and ideation up to deployment and maintenance. A key element of this collaboration is the development of clear security policies standards, guidelines, and standards that provide a framework for safe coding practices, threat modeling, as well as vulnerability management. These guidelines should be based on industry best practices, such as the OWASP top ten, NIST guidelines as well as the CWE. They must also take into consideration the distinct requirements and risk characteristics of the applic