Overview
ISO/IEC TS 27034-5-1:2018 is a technical specification developed by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) and the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC). This standard addresses a critical need in information technology: the standardized definition and exchange of Application Security Controls (ASCs) using XML schemas. ISO/IEC TS 27034-5-1:2018 defines the minimal set of information requirements, essential attributes for ASCs, and the activities and roles tied to the Application Security Life Cycle Reference Model (ASLCRM) outlined in ISO/IEC 27034-5.
This specification supports secure, efficient sharing and management of application security controls data. By providing a reference XML schema structure, it facilitates tool interoperability and consistent security control implementation across organizations and throughout the application life cycle.
Key Topics
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XML Schema for ASCs:
The document specifies standardized XML schema definitions that encapsulate the essential data model for ASCs, supporting platform-independent data exchange.
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ASC Data Model Structure:
- ASC Package: Groups one or more ASCs for streamlined exchange and management.
- ASC Identification: Defines unique identifiers, version information, names, and relationships with other ASCs.
- ASC Objective: Specifies purpose, security requirements addressed, assigned levels of trust, preconditions, and trust range descriptions.
- Approval and E-signature: Supports tracking and validating approval stages through digital signatures, adding trust and auditability.
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Integration with ASLCRM:
Activities and roles from the Application Security Life Cycle Reference Model are directly embedded in the schema, clarifying responsibilities and processes in the life cycle of ASCs.
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Interoperability Focus:
The technical specification ensures that ASC authoring, distribution, approval, and integration can be handled consistently by different vendors, organizations, and tools.
Applications
ISO/IEC TS 27034-5-1:2018 delivers practical value to a range of stakeholders in information technology and software development:
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Software Development Organizations:
Enables the creation, exchange, and validation of application security controls in a standardized, structured manner, reducing risk of miscommunication.
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Security Tool Vendors:
Provides a formally defined XML reference model to facilitate integration of security management and assessment tools, ensuring compatibility and promoting automation.
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ASC Suppliers and Acquirers:
Simplifies the process of distributing and implementing security controls, ensuring integrity through digital signatures, and supporting multilingual or localized deployment.
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Managers and Security Committees:
Ensures repeatability, reusability, and auditability of application security controls. Managers can efficiently oversee the lifecycle and evolutionary history of each ASC.
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Auditors and Compliance Teams:
Structured metadata and traceable approval records support robust compliance checks with internal policies and external regulations.
Related Standards
For a holistic approach to application security, ISO/IEC TS 27034-5-1:2018 should be used in conjunction with the following standards:
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ISO/IEC 27034-1 - Information technology - Security techniques - Application security - Part 1: Overview and concepts
Foundational concepts and terminology for application security.
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ISO/IEC 27034-5 - Protocols and application security control data structure
The primary reference for the life cycle model and detailed protocols.
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ISO/IEC 19770 Series – IT asset management
For describing assets and integrating security controls at the asset level.
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ISO/IEC 27001 & 27002 – Information security management systems (ISMS)
General information security controls and guidance for organizational policy alignment.
By leveraging ISO/IEC TS 27034-5-1:2018, organizations strengthen their application security posture, improve interoperability among tools and stakeholders, and support compliance with international standards for information security. This standard is a cornerstone resource for implementing and managing robust, standardized application security controls.