Free CISSP Software Development Security Practice Test 2026 — Certified Information Systems Security Professional Questions

This free CISSP Software Development Security practice test covers Domain 8 — software development security, including the SDLC, OWASP Top 10, DevSecOps, API security, and software maturity models. Each question includes a detailed explanation grounded in the official ISC2 CBK — perfect for CISSP exam prep.

Key Topics in CISSP Software Development Security

6 Free CISSP Software Development Security Practice Questions with Answers

Sample Question 1 — Software Development Security

Your organization is adopting DevOps practices. How would you best ensure secure coding practices are integrated throughout the software development lifecycle (SDLC)?

  1. A. Mandate developer training on secure coding and conduct periodic code reviews. (Correct answer)
  2. B. Implement a Static Application Security Testing (SAST) tool at the end of the development cycle.
  3. C. Rely on penetration testing as the primary security measure for newly developed software.
  4. D. Outsource all application security responsibilities to a third-party vendor.

Correct answer: A

Explanation: Option A is the best approach because it focuses on proactive security measures by educating developers and incorporating code reviews throughout the SDLC. This is a holistic and risk-based approach. B is insufficient as SAST is only one aspect and should be integrated earlier. C relies solely on reactive measures, while D lacks accountability and control.

Sample Question 2 — Software Development Security

A critical vulnerability has been discovered in a live production application. What is the most appropriate initial response?

  1. A. Immediately deploy a patch without thorough testing.
  2. B. Conduct a full security audit of the entire application codebase.
  3. C. Isolate the affected application to limit the impact and begin investigating the root cause. (Correct answer)
  4. D. Ignore the vulnerability and hope it doesn't get exploited.

Correct answer: C

Explanation: Isolating the application minimizes the attack surface while investigation determines the best remediation strategy. A is too risky, B is too broad and time-consuming, D is unacceptable.

Sample Question 3 — Software Development Security

Your organization is developing a new mobile banking application. What security controls should be prioritized during the design phase?

  1. A. Focus solely on encryption of data at rest and in transit.
  2. B. Implement robust authentication mechanisms, data loss prevention (DLP), and secure data storage. (Correct answer)
  3. C. Prioritize user experience above security considerations.
  4. D. Rely on automated security tools for all security aspects.

Correct answer: B

Explanation: Option B addresses crucial security considerations for a mobile banking app, encompassing strong authentication, preventing data leaks, and safeguarding data. A is incomplete, C prioritizes the wrong aspect, and D overlooks human review and oversight.

Sample Question 4 — Software Development Security

Which security practice is MOST effective in preventing SQL injection vulnerabilities?

  1. A. Using firewalls to block suspicious network traffic.
  2. B. Regularly scanning for vulnerabilities using automated tools.
  3. C. Implementing parameterized queries or prepared statements. (Correct answer)
  4. D. Educating developers about SQL injection techniques.

Correct answer: C

Explanation: Parameterized queries prevent malicious code from being executed within SQL queries, directly addressing the root cause of SQL injection. While others are helpful, they're not as effective as directly preventing the vulnerability.

Sample Question 5 — Software Development Security

You are implementing a DevSecOps strategy. What is the MOST critical element for success?

  1. A. Adopting the latest security tools.
  2. B. Extensive developer training on security best practices.
  3. C. Mandating regular penetration testing.
  4. D. Strong collaboration and communication between development and security teams. (Correct answer)

Correct answer: D

Explanation: DevSecOps hinges on breaking down silos and fostering collaboration. While the other options are valuable, effective communication and shared responsibility are paramount for seamless integration of security into the SDLC.

Sample Question 6 — Software Development Security

Your organization is facing increasing pressure to adopt agile development methodologies. How can you ensure security is not compromised?

  1. A. Delay the adoption of agile until comprehensive security processes are in place.
  2. B. Integrate security activities into each sprint or iteration of the agile lifecycle. (Correct answer)
  3. C. Assign security responsibilities solely to a separate security team.
  4. D. Prioritize speed of delivery over security considerations during agile sprints.

Correct answer: B

Explanation: Integrating security into each iteration (shift-left) ensures continuous security checks and prevents security becoming a bottleneck. A delays innovation, C creates silos, and D is unacceptable.

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