← Web Application Security (OWASP) learning path
Web Application Security (OWASP) · Module 7 of 10

Security misconfiguration

Ship secure defaults and settings.

📖 Key ideas

  1. Turn off debug mode and detailed errors in production.
  2. Remove default accounts and sample apps.
  3. Set security headers: CSP, HSTS, X-Content-Type-Options, frame-ancestors.
  4. Lock down cloud storage and admin panels.
  5. Automate configuration checks in CI.
💡 Real-life example: Misconfiguration is leaving the shop's back door unlocked even though the front has a great lock.
Debug modeDetailed errors for developers
Security headersHTTP headers improving browser security
Default credentialsFactory usernames/passwords
HardeningReducing attack surface