Understanding Software Architecture Vs. Software Security Design

It's not uncommon for IT students to be certain about their desire to become a software professional, but unsure of their preference in their specialty in the early stages of their career. Software architecture is a very layered role that encompasses many different considerations and plenty of problem-solving, including those that pertain to software security. Here's how these two elements differ.

Two Important Definitions: Software Architecture and Software Design

Overview of Software Architecture

Software architecture serves as a depiction of how the system functions as a whole and at the individual level. The individual components are typically assigned a function or set of functions as laid out by the software architect. In developing a system's architecture, the IT professional keeps in mind various foundational architecture decisions, such as performance, quality, maintenance, sustainability, and how to measure success over the entire lifecycle of the system.

Senior architects may have experience outlining sophisticated architecture patterns or employing high-level principles. It's not common that a system reflects a single architecture style; rather, a combination of styles often makes up the system. Software architects typically provide a "roadmap" for the team of software designers.

Overview of Software Design

Software designers are responsible for explicating software requirements into a completed concept that's ready to be implemented. One of the initial steps in the software development lifecycle (SDLC); design takes these requirements and is responsible for both high-level design constructions. These offer a substantiated view of the subsystems involved and depictions of their interactions, as well as more detailed and user-facing design features.

A Look at the Relationship Between Software Architecture and Design

When a system’s architecture is analyzed and evaluated, a quality assurance professional—commonly known as a tester—typically looks for bugs in the implementation and flaws in design before the rollout happens. A flaw in software design can also result in vulnerabilities that can negatively impact security. These kinds of defects can be attributed to architectural errors.

An Introduction to Software Security Design

Security design should always be a conversation during a software project. As previously noted, technology architecture can directly impact security design, and it may be referred to as "architecture security" in some cases.

At Tulane School of Professional Advancement, you'll connect with qualified instructors who can guide you in making the decision to follow a specific career path in technology. Whether you're interested in understanding more about cybersecurity, IT leadership, or simply want more details behind a job title, an education from Tulane SoPA can provide you with the skills needed to stand out in a competitive job market. Request more information today to get to know our programs.