DevSecOps Pipeline Security Framework

The  is a visual, high-level guide that shows you how to embed security throughout your Kubernetes setup on Azure.
 

From secure coding and runtime testing to threat modelling and alerting, this template maps out where security actions occur—across nodes and environments, so teams can work smarter, stay compliant, and avoid unpleasant surprises.

Why This Template is a Lifesaver ?

• It breaks down complex security stuff into a clear, visual diagram, no more second-guessing what happens where.

• Covers the full DevSecOps lifecycle, from planning to post-deployment monitoring.

• Keeps all teams on the same page—developers, security, and operations folks all get a shared view.

• Saves time during audits and reviews by clearly indicating where security controls are in place.

• Helps catch issues early with guidance on static code analysis, composition scanning, and more.

Who’s It for and When Should You Use It? 

This template is perfect for: 

• DevOps engineers are looking to strengthen their Kubernetes deployments.

• Security teams need to visualize and explain where protections are in place.

• IT managers prepare for compliance audits or security reviews.

• Developers who want to build with security in mind from the start.

Use it when: 

• You're designing a new AKS deployment and want security baked in.

• You’re training a new team on DevSecOps principles.

• You need to document your security practices for internal reviews or stakeholders.

• You want a fast, visual way to explain your security workflow to someone else.

What’s Inside the Template ?

Here’s what you’ll find included:

• Threat Modelling Guidance :
  Understand where to analyze potential risks before you even write code.

• Secure Coding Practices :
  Tips and checkpoints for integrating security plugins and following coding standards.

• Dynamic & Runtime Testing Points :
  Visual markers for where DAST (Dynamic Application Security Testing) and runtime assessments should occur.

• Node-Level Policies & Frameworks :
  Shows how and where to apply network policies and security frameworks inside your AKS nodes.

• Monitoring & Logging Workflows :
  Guidance on setting up logging, alerting, and incident response within the cluster.

• Static Code & Dependency Scanning :
  Places where to plug in tools like SAST and software composition analysis to catch vulnerabilities early.

• Team Responsibility Zones :
  Clear division of who’s responsible for what—so there’s no confusion during a crisis.

How to Use the Template ?

Using this template is super straightforward:

1. Download or open the visual map of the AKS DevSecOps lifecycle.

2. Walk through each node and touchpoint—see what practices apply where.

3. Align your tools and teams to the security points mapped in the diagram.

4. Use it during planning sessions to make sure nothing falls through the cracks.

5. Customize it as needed—adapt it to your environment and tooling.

6. Refer during reviews or audits to quickly show your security coverage.

Summary 

Security in Kubernetes environments—especially on Azure Kubernetes Service (AKS)—can feel overwhelming if you don’t have a clear plan. Between development, deployment, and runtime, there are dozens of places where things can go wrong. But with this DevSecOps on AKS Template, you don’t have to guess what goes where or who’s responsible for what.

This template gives you a full, end-to-end view of how to embed security into every layer of your AKS workflow—from writing secure code and applying Kubernetes node policies, to setting up automated testing, alerting, and monitoring. It helps you see where key security checks should happen and how each team (development, security, operations) plays a role in keeping your apps safe.

Whether you’re launching a new Kubernetes project or reviewing an existing one, this visual guide makes it easier to:

• Align your teams on shared security responsibilities

• Catch vulnerabilities early with proper testing and code analysis

• Prepare for compliance checks with clear documentation

• Respond faster to threats with monitoring and alerting built into the flow

In short, it’s a practical, visual playbook for anyone looking to build secure, cloud-native applications on Azure. It doesn’t just check boxes—it helps you design a secure foundation that scales with your workloads and your team.