Cloudsmith Launches Enterprise Policy Manager: A New Era in Software Supply Chain Governance
In an age where software supply chains are increasingly under threat from sophisticated cyberattacks, Cloudsmith has stepped up to the plate with the launch of its Enterprise Policy Manager. This innovative policy-as-code engine is designed to centralize governance in software supply chains, addressing the pressing security and compliance challenges that organizations face today.
Addressing Security and Compliance Challenges
The Enterprise Policy Manager emerges at a critical juncture, as high-profile security incidents like the SolarWinds attack in 2020 and the Log4j vulnerability in 2021 have underscored the vulnerabilities inherent in software supply chains. These events have prompted a significant shift in industry focus towards stronger security practices. Cloudsmith’s new platform is a direct response to these challenges, aiming to provide centralized oversight and enriched metadata that informs policy decisions.
Glenn Weinstein, CEO of Cloudsmith, emphasizes the importance of proactive measures in the evolving landscape of software security. "We’re building a solution that anticipates future security and compliance requirements," he states. As enterprises face increasing pressure to secure their software supply chains, Cloudsmith positions itself as an essential infrastructure for secure, efficient, and compliant software delivery.
Shifting Security Protocols Earlier in the Development Cycle
One of the standout features of the Enterprise Policy Manager is its ability to shift security protocols earlier in the development cycle. By utilizing artefact management as a control plane, the platform aims to mitigate risks without hindering development speed. This proactive approach allows organizations to identify and address vulnerabilities before they can be exploited, ensuring that security is not an afterthought but an integral part of the development process.
Centralized Governance of Software Components
The Enterprise Policy Manager leverages Cloudsmith’s artefact repositories to govern all software components, with a particular focus on third-party artefacts such as open-source packages. This central point of governance ensures that dependencies are verified and compliant before they enter production systems, significantly reducing the risks associated with outdated or unsupported software.
Moreover, the platform enriches software artefacts with critical metadata, including vulnerability scores and dependency risk indicators. This wealth of information empowers development teams to make informed decisions, preventing the integration of vulnerable packages and enhancing overall software security.
User-Friendly Policy Creation and Collaboration
Recognizing the diverse needs of its users, Cloudsmith has designed the Enterprise Policy Manager with a user-friendly visual policy builder. This feature facilitates easy policy creation for both technical and non-technical users, fostering collaboration between security and development teams. For more complex requirements, the platform supports Open Policy Agent (OPA) and Rego, allowing for advanced policy configurations without compromising productivity.
The policies created through the platform are fully auditable and logged, which is crucial for compliance with industry regulations. This transparency not only aids in demonstrating compliance but also helps organizations manage the risks associated with third-party software.
The Growing Challenge of Open-Source Security
The widespread use of open-source technology has introduced new challenges in maintaining security. Modern applications often incorporate multiple open-source components, many of which may be outdated and expose organizations to potential cyber threats. As the problem continues to grow, projected costs related to software supply chain vulnerabilities are expected to reach a staggering USD $138 billion by 2031.
Cloudsmith’s Enterprise Policy Manager aims to tackle these challenges head-on, providing a comprehensive solution for enterprises looking to enhance the security and compliance of their software supply chains.
Early Access and Future Plans
Currently, the Enterprise Policy Manager is available in early access for Cloudsmith customers, with plans for expanded access in the near future. As organizations increasingly recognize the importance of securing their software supply chains, Cloudsmith’s new platform stands poised to redefine what it means to deliver secure software at scale, with confidence and speed.
In conclusion, the launch of the Enterprise Policy Manager marks a significant advancement in the realm of software supply chain governance. By centralizing oversight, enriching metadata, and facilitating collaboration, Cloudsmith is not only addressing current security challenges but also anticipating future needs in an ever-evolving digital landscape.