The need for DevSecOps engineers has soared as businesses prioritize security more and more in software development and operations. These experts have a special skill set that combines knowledge of operations, security procedures, and software development. Throughout the development lifecycle, they are essential in guaranteeing the security, dependability, and compliance of systems and applications.
It’s crucial to be well-prepared with the appropriate information and abilities if you want to work as a DevSecOps engineer or are getting ready for an interview in this profession. This blog offers a thorough rundown of the top 50 DevSecOps engineer interview questions and responses to assist you on your way. To determine your level of skill, these questions will test you on a variety of complex subjects, scenario-based circumstances, and real-world experiences.
The blog’s questions go beyond simple definitions to explore the practical facets of DevSecOps engineering. Your ability to solve problems, think critically, and comprehend various security procedures, tools, approaches, and cloud environments will all be put to the test. You may approach your DevSecOps engineer interview with assurance if you are familiar with the questions and have good responses prepared.
Remember that the secret to acing an interview isn’t only knowing the right questions to ask; it’s also being able to demonstrate how you think, what you’ve done before, and how flexible you are. Use these inquiries as a springboard to expand your understanding, hone your abilities, and clearly communicate your experience as a DevSecOps engineer. So, let’s explore further.
Top 50 Questions and Answers
1. How do you make sure security is included into the entire process of developing software?
Incorporating security practices into the software development lifecycle at every point, including conducting security reviews during design, using secure coding techniques, conducting regular vulnerability assessments, and including security testing in the CI/CD pipeline, is something I really believe in.
2. How have you used a continuous integration/continuous deployment (CI/CD) pipeline to apply security controls?
In my previous position, I integrated security controls into the CI/CD pipeline using technologies like static code analysis, dynamic application security testing, and container scanning. This allowed us to automate security checks prior to deployment and find vulnerabilities early in the development process.
3. How would you respond in the event that a production application had a vulnerability?
In the event that a vulnerability in a production application is found, I would first evaluate its effect and seriousness. The next step would be for me to collaborate with the development team to create a mitigation strategy, which could include patching, code modifications, or short-term workarounds. I would also let everyone know about the problem and make sure the response was planned.
4. What does “shift left” in DevSecOps mean?
The term “shift left” describes the practice of bringing security considerations and actions forward in the software development process. As early as feasible, ideally during the requirements and design process, security testing, code analysis, and vulnerability assessments must be integrated. By doing this, we can spot security problems early on and take action before they get worse and cost more to rectify.
5. Do your projects make use of any particular security frameworks or standards, such as OWASP or NIST?
The OWASP (Open Web Application Security Project) and NIST (National Institute of Standards and Technology) frameworks have both been used in my projects, you answered correctly. I am aware of the OWASP Top Ten Vulnerabilities and have put appropriate safeguards in place. In addition, I evaluated risks in accordance with NIST recommendations for secure software development.
6. Describe a situation where you had to strike a balance between project deadlines and security concerns.
We once faced a tight deadline for a new feature release on a project. However, a serious flaw was identified during security testing. We swiftly evaluated the danger and impact of the vulnerability and put in place a temporary remedy to mitigate the immediate threat in order to strike a balance between security standards and project timeframes. In a future release, we subsequently prepared a more thorough remedy to address the underlying issue.
7. In a distributed system, how can safe communication be ensured between microservices?
By using mutual TLS (Transport Layer Security) or JWT (JSON Web Tokens) authentication and authorisation techniques, I enable secure communication between microservices. In addition, I implement stringent access restrictions, encrypt important information both in transit and at rest, and routinely change both keys and certificates.
8. Can you give an example of a moment when you had to safeguard a legacy program with restricted source code access?
Without full access to the source code, we once had to secure a legacy program. Web application firewalls (WAFs), which add an additional layer of defense against known vulnerabilities, were put in place to achieve this. Additionally, we changed configurations and performed code analysis.
9. How do you go about educating development teams about security?
I think development teams should receive frequent security training. These lectures go over secure configuration, secure coding, and typical security flaws. I also encourage developers to take part in security-focused forums, go to conferences, and be given tools and resources that will help them learn more about security.
10. Describe your background in risk analysis and threat modeling.
I have a lot of experience in risk analysis and threat modeling. I assess potential threats and evaluate their effects using approaches like STRIDE (Spoofing, Tampering, Repudiation, Information Disclosure, Denial of Service, Elevation of Privilege). I then rank threats according to their seriousness and likelihood before collaborating with the team to put the necessary security measures in place.
11. In a Kubernetes context, how would you secure a containerized application?
Using trusted base images, routinely patching containers and their supporting host systems, limiting container permissions, enforcing network policies, and putting strong authentication and access controls for the Kubernetes API are just a few of the steps I would take to secure a containerized application in a Kubernetes environment.
12. Describe a time when you had to deal with a serious security event in a working setting.
An attacker acquired unauthorized access to client data in a production environment during a critical security incident that we dealt with in a previous position. I started an incident response strategy right away, which included isolating the affected systems, doing a comprehensive investigation, installing the required patches and updates, and transparently communicating with the affected clients.
13. How do you manage security flaws in open source frameworks or libraries that you utilize in your projects?
I take the following actions when I find security flaws in open-source frameworks or libraries: Use dependency management tools to track vulnerabilities, rapidly update to the most recent patched version, keep an eye on security advisories, and actively participate in the open source community by reporting vulnerabilities and assisting in their patching.
14. Could you define “Infrastructure as Code” (IaC) and its function in DevSecOps?
Managing and supplying infrastructure resources through machine-readable definition files is what “Infrastructure as Code” (IaC) entails. IaC in DevSecOps enables version control, automated testing, and security reviews by allowing us to approach infrastructure as code. This guarantees that infrastructure is deployed regularly, securely, and can be audited.
15. How would you respond in a circumstance when security requirements and commercial goals are at odds?
In such circumstances, I think that open dialogue and teamwork among stakeholders are key. I would evaluate the dangers of departing from security requirements and suggest substitute security controls or mitigations. It’s crucial to come to a consensus on the potential impact and investigate any compromises that strike a balance between security and economic goals.
16. How would you respond in a circumstance when security requirements and commercial goals are at odds?
In such circumstances, I think that open dialogue and teamwork among stakeholders are key. I would evaluate the dangers of departing from security requirements and suggest substitute security controls or mitigations. It’s crucial to come to a consensus on the potential impact and investigate any compromises that strike a balance between security and economic goals.
17. Describe your background in forensics and security incident response.
I oversaw the efforts to respond to security incidents in my prior position. In order to determine the reason and stop such incidents in the future, this required creating incident response plans, carrying out investigations, examining logs and other artifacts, working with other parties, putting remediation plans into place, and completing post-incident forensics.
18. In a distributed system, how would you guarantee the integrity and confidentiality of sensitive data?
I would use encryption methods including data-at-rest encryption, transport layer encryption (TLS/SSL), and field-level encryption to guarantee the confidentiality and integrity of sensitive data in a distributed system. To monitor data access and identify any unwanted actions, I would also install access controls, data segregation, and audit trails.
19. Can you give an example of a vulnerability you had to tackle that called for a complicated technical fix?
In a prior project, we came across a complicated vulnerability that needed a unique technical fix. The application’s use of a particular library was the source of the vulnerability, and the patch required substantial code changes and thorough testing to assure compatibility. I carefully collaborated with the development team, carried out exhaustive testing, and successfully implemented the solution without impairing the operation of the application.
20. How do you keep up with the most recent security threats and market trends?
I take part actively in mailing lists, forums, and communities related to security. I keep up with security bulletins and advisories from reliable sources like CERT/CC, NIST, and vendor security notifications by frequently attending security conferences, reading security blogs, following pertinent security researchers on social media platforms, and attending security conferences on a regular basis.
21. Describe your background in penetration testing and vulnerability scanning.
To find known vulnerabilities in systems, networks, and applications, I conducted vulnerability scanning utilizing automated techniques in my past employment. In order to simulate actual attacks and find weaknesses that might not be picked up by automated scans, I have coordinated and taken part in penetration testing operations.
22. How would you make sure that secrets and sensitive credentials are managed and stored securely in a DevSecOps environment?
I would use a secure vault or key management system to centralize storage, enforce strong encryption, routinely rotate keys, implement access controls, and monitor and audit access to these secrets in order to assure secure administration and storage of secrets and sensitive credentials. Using secure procedures, such as avoiding hardcoding credentials in code or configuration files, is something I would also advocate for.
23. Can you give an example of a period when you had to convince different parties to adopt security measures?
When working on a previous project, I ran against opposition from stakeholders who were reluctant to fund security measures. I created a thorough risk assessment report with potential business implications and expenses of not addressing security vulnerabilities in order to persuade and influence them. I also provided alternate approaches, highlighting the ROI and long-term advantages of making security investments.
24. When using cloud-native services like AWS, Azure, or Google Cloud Platform, how would you manage security?
In a cloud-native environment, I would adhere to the shared responsibility model and make sure that the security precautions and best practices recommended by the cloud provider are followed. I would set up identity and access management policies, setup security groups and network access controls, enable encryption for data in transit and at rest, and regularly keep an eye on logs and alerts for unusual activity.
25. Describe how you work with development teams and your expertise with secure coding reviews.
I have a lot of expertise conducting secure coding reviews to find and fix potential flaws and vulnerabilities in code. I work closely with the development teams, offering them best practices, code samples, and in-depth comments. Additionally, I take part in code reviews and assist developers in using secure coding techniques.
26. How should security testing be handled in a microservices architecture that deploys frequently?
Answer: I make sure security testing is a crucial component of the CI/CD pipeline in a microservices design with frequent deployments. I execute integration testing and scan individual microservices using automated security testing frameworks and tools to look for potential security holes or vulnerabilities.
27. Can you give an example of a security dispute you had to settle with a development team?
In a prior project, the security team’s insistence on extensive security checks clashed with the development team’s demand for quick development cycles. I supported open dialogues to resolve the issue, hammering home the value of security and the dangers of hasty releases. I suggested a workaround that entailed adding security checkpoints at crucial points in the development process without materially delaying delivery.
28. How do you go about incident identification and security monitoring in a cloud environment?
To gather and examine logs, events, and metrics in a cloud context, I use cloud-native security monitoring and logging services. To quickly identify and respond to possible security problems, I configure alerts and notifications based on established security indicators, put anomaly detection techniques into practice, and make use of threat intelligence feeds.
29. Describe your experience with safe containerization tools like Kubernetes and Docker.
In order to implement security measures like image scanning, vulnerability management, container runtime security, network policies, and RBAC (Role-Based Access Control), I have considerable experience with Docker and Kubernetes. I have also used tools to enforce security standards and stop unauthorized container deployments, such as Docker Content Trust and Kubernetes admission controllers.
30. How do you make sure that your initiatives adhere to industry norms and standards (such GDPR and HIPAA)?
I develop a thorough understanding of the requirements and incorporate them into the project’s security controls and procedures to ensure compliance with industry legislation and standards. I keep records and proof of compliance efforts, conduct routine audits, establish security controls and measures to secure sensitive data, and collaborate closely with compliance teams.
31. Can you give an example of a time when you had to do a post-mortem study of a security incident?
We had a security incident in a previous project that allowed unauthorized access to consumer data. I oversaw a post-mortem investigation to determine the core cause and pinpoint areas for improvement after the incident had been contained. The analysis included looking over logs, interviewing people, looking at system setups, and creating a list of suggestions to stop such situations in the future.
32. How can you guarantee that every developer in a sizable development team adheres to secure coding standards?
The best practices documentation, training sessions, and integration of safe coding techniques into the development process are all ways I promote secure coding practices throughout a large development team. I also perform code reviews and work with team leads to find and fix any violations of secure coding standards.
33. Give an example of how you have incorporated security into Infrastructure as Code (IaC) tools like Terraform or CloudFormation.
As for Terraform and CloudFormation, I have a lot of expertise incorporating security into IaC technologies. Adding security measures calls for creating network security groups, enabling encryption, configuring identity and access management, and putting logging and monitoring capabilities into place, among other things.
34. How do you respond to security events or flaws found in libraries or software created by third parties?
I take a coordinated response approach when security incidents or vulnerabilities are found in third-party applications or libraries. This entails notifying vendors or maintainers as quickly as possible, monitoring security advisories, installing patches or upgrades as soon as they become available, and reducing risks by putting in place compensating controls if quick remedies are not practical.
35. What knowledge do you have of secure software development approaches like Agile or DevOps?
The development lifecycle is connected with security using the Agile and DevOps approaches, which I have vast expertise using. Incorporating security testing into automated pipelines, implementing security-focused user stories, doing security-focused sprint activities, and making sure security considerations are taken into account throughout each iteration are all things I have done.
36. What kind of access restrictions and audit trails would be necessary for securing a highly regulated application?
I would use least privilege principles, role-based access controls, and multifactor authentication to establish strong access controls to secure a highly regulated application. Additionally, I would impose thorough logging and auditing tools to record and keep track of user activity. I would also routinely review and examine audit trails to spot any suspicious or non-compliant conduct.
37. Can you give an example of a vendor security breach you had to deal with and how it affected your business?
We had a vendor security breach in a previous position that revealed client data. Our company was significantly impacted by the breach, which may have resulted in legal action and reputational harm. I oversaw the incident response operations, collaborating closely with the affected vendor, getting the word out to other key players, putting in place extra security measures, and leading comprehensive investigations to avert future occurrences of this kind.
38. How can administrators and developers access production environments safely?
I adhere to the principle of least privilege, issuing access rights in accordance with particular job tasks, to ensure secure access to production settings. I deploy granular access restrictions, multi-factor authentication, routinely evaluate and revoke access privileges, and monitor and log access activity to look for any unauthorized or questionable activity.
39. How have you integrated security testing tools into your CI/CD pipeline?
In past projects, I linked the CI/CD pipeline with security testing tools including SAST (Static Application Security Testing), DAST (Dynamic Application Security Testing), and SCA tools. As a result, we were able to automatically test and scan code, find security holes, and give developers immediate feedback, ensuring that security measures were put in place as soon as possible.
40. How do you coordinate and communicate with stakeholders during and after a security incident?
In the event of a security incident, I support open and prompt communication with all parties involved. I create an escalation plan, specify communication channels, and offer regular updates on the issue, its effects, and the steps being followed. I make that a thorough incident report is written and distributed to all relevant parties after an occurrence, outlining the root cause, corrective actions, and lessons learned.
41. Can you give an example of a moment when you had to assess the security architecture of a complicated system?
In a prior project, I reviewed the security architecture of a sophisticated system. The review included examining the system’s design, locating potential security holes, assessing the efficiency of security measures, and offering suggestions to strengthen the security posture of the system. This featured improved access control, network segmentation, and new security monitoring tools. I see to it that following an incident, a complete incident report is created and given to all concerned parties, including the main cause, the remedies, and the lessons learned.
42. Describe a time when you had to evaluate the security architecture of a challenging system.
I looked over a complex system’s security design in a previous project. In the review, the system’s design was looked at, potential security gaps were found, the effectiveness of security measures was evaluated, and recommendations were made to improve the system’s security posture. This included updated network segmentation, enhanced access control, and new security monitoring tools.
43. Describe your experience with performing security risk analyses for sophisticated applications or systems.
By methodically identifying resources, threats, vulnerabilities, and potential effects, I have carried out security risk assessments for intricate systems or applications. I have quantified and prioritized risks using risk assessment approaches like FAIR (Factor Analysis of Information Risk) and OCTAVE (Operationally Critical Threat, Asset, and Vulnerability Evaluation), and based on the assessment’s findings, I have created risk mitigation strategies.
44. How can you make sure that third-party APIs or services are securely included into your applications?
I use secure coding techniques like input validation, output encoding, API authentication, and authorisation to enable the secure integration of third-party APIs or services. I undertake in-depth security testing and vulnerability analyses, implement suitable data in transit encryption, and thoroughly analyze the API documentation and security controls offered by the third party.
45. What was it like to collaborate with a compliance team to resolve security audit findings?
During a security audit for a previous project, the compliance team found a number of issues. I worked closely with the compliance team, comprehended the audit findings, and created a plan of remediation to handle each one. I communicated with auditors, offered proof of corrective actions, and made sure all issues were successfully fixed to preserve compliance.
46. How should a secure cloud architecture for highly accessible and scalable applications be designed?
I use best practices like network segmentation, encryption at rest and in transit, leveraging identity and access management controls, designing for fault tolerance and automated recovery when creating a secure cloud architecture for scalable and highly available applications. In order to provide visibility and prompt identification of security events, I additionally use monitoring and logging tools.
47. Describe your knowledge of threat modeling and the ways in which you use it in your job.
I have a lot of experience with threat modeling, which entails identifying potential threats and vulnerabilities, assessing their significance and likelihood, and creating defenses against them. To identify potential attack routes and prioritize security measures, I use threat modeling approaches like STRIDE (Spoofing, Tampering, Repudiation, Information Disclosure, Denial of Service, Elevation of Privilege) and attack tree analysis.
48. How should safe data migration be handled during system upgrades or moves?
I use encryption techniques for data in transit and at rest to ensure the confidentiality and integrity of the data when executing data migration during system upgrades or migrations. To guarantee that the data is secure during the migration process, I carefully prepare the process, carry out data validation and verification, establish access restrictions, and carry out extensive testing.
49. Can you give an example of a security incident that required legal handling, like a data breach involving personally identifiable information (PII)?
In a prior position, we had a data breach that exposed personally identifiable information (PII), which would have had legal repercussions. As soon as possible, I hired legal counsel, worked with regulatory authorities as needed, and made sure that applicable breach notification regulations were followed. In addition, I oversaw efforts to fix the breach, performed forensic examinations, and put new security measures in place to stop similar breaches in the future.
50. How can an organization foster a climate of security responsibility and awareness?
I support continuing security training and awareness programs for all staff to foster a culture of security knowledge and accountability. I promote reporting of security occurrences and near-misses, commend responsible conduct, and integrate security into the organization’s guiding principles. Additionally, I work with HR to incorporate security into the onboarding procedure and to periodically run security awareness campaigns to reinforce best practices.
Final Tips
DevSecOps engineers are now essential in the modern digital environment, where security flaws and vulnerabilities represent serious risks to businesses. You can use the entire collection of complex interview questions and responses on this site to help you get ready for your DevSecOps engineer interview.
You can demonstrate your knowledge of secure software development, vulnerability management, security testing, cloud security, incident response, and compliance by thoroughly comprehending and responding to these questions. In addition, questions that are scenario- and experience-based will test your ability to apply what you know to actual scenarios and show off your problem-solving abilities.
Keep in mind that it is essential to keep up with the most recent security developments, tools, and best practices in addition to preparing for the interview. You will be better able to handle difficult security challenges and help create safe and resilient systems through continuous learning and improvement.
As you begin the process of becoming a DevSecOps engineer, approach the interview with assurance, express your ideas effectively, and emphasize any relevant experiences you have. For well-rounded responses that highlight your strengths, combine technical knowledge with real-world examples Happy interviewing! and may you succeed as a DevSecOps engineer, contributing significantly to the seamless integration of security into the software development and operations process.
