Which step in the SDLC incorporates secure coding patterns and best practices, such as those from the Open Web Application Security Project (OWASP)?

In the software development lifecycle (SDLC), the step that incorporates secure coding patterns and best practices, such as those from the Open Web Application Security Project (OWASP), is the solution design phase. During this stage, developers and architects establish the framework and architecture for the software, making decisions that guide the overall security posture of the application.

This is where secure design principles are implemented, which help identify potential vulnerabilities early on. By integrating best practices, such as OWASP guidelines, into the design, developers can proactively address security concerns and ensure that the coding practices align with security standards. This approach reduces the likelihood of introducing security flaws during the coding phase and promotes a culture of security awareness throughout the development process.

In contrast, the other steps in the SDLC focus on different aspects: requirements gathering identifies what the software must achieve without delving deeply into security specifics, testing formulation prepares for how to test the application once developed, and code testing verifies that the code is functioning as intended but is already in the later stages of development. Thus, the solution design is critical for embedding security considerations from the very beginning of the development process.