When and Why to Code Audit Your Software

Technology is fast-paced and constantly changing. Your app or software may be equipped with the most-cutting edge and advanced technology at the time it’s built, but with rapid innovation in the tech world, no one can guarantee how long that title will last. All types of technology and software are bound to become outdated at some point; however, taking the proper measures can ensure that your software stays up-to-date and functional, regardless of how much time passes. One of the best ways to do this is through code auditing.

What is Code Auditing?

A code audit is a process that helps a software product run smoother and more efficiently by scanning it for possible vulnerabilities or threats. Vulnerabilities do not necessarily equate to malware or suspicious activity; there are many factors that can prevent a software from functioning at its best. Some of the most common examples include outdated tools, poor management, or insufficient software development. Performing a code audit ensures that all of these issues will be identified and resolved seamlessly. Once the software has been analyzed, a comprehensive report of all of the issues found is generated. From there, you can identify what needs to be improved or fixed and what steps you need to take in order to do it.

What Can a Code Audit Reveal?

A code audit essentially involves scanning your entire software for any of the following vulnerabilities:

• Errors or bugs
• Security vulnerabilities
• Outdated elements
• Malware, ransomware, viruses, etc.

What is the Value of a Code Audit?

While the definition of a code audit is relatively simple, defining the value of an audit is slightly more complex. There are many ways in which an audit is beneficial.

Consistency

One of the main purposes of an app code audit is to keep software running smoothly for as long as possible. Even as time passes, performing regular code audits can greatly help to maintain the efficacy of your software. Undetected vulnerabilities are one of the biggest contributors to malfunctioning, outdated, and/or inefficient software. Through an app code audit, issues and vulnerabilities can be detected and resolved as swiftly as possible. This maintains your software’s performance and may even make room for certain improvements and upgrades in the future.

Protect and Secure Your Data

There are many different types of threats that can compromise your data in the long run. As technology and security measures continue to advance, hackers come up with equally advanced methods to breach the private networks of organizations and businesses. In 2021, a total of 2,690 ransomware attacks were reported. With issues like malware, ransomware, and viruses still prevalent to this day, it’s possible that your software could be released to unauthorized individuals with malicious intent. To prevent this from happening, regular code audits and analyses must be performed to identify threats or weaknesses ahead of time.

Minimize Costs

Technically speaking, you could simply upgrade your software once it becomes outdated. However, this could be an expensive option to sustain in the long run. Instead, you can get a similar performance boost by ensuring that your current software is running smoothly. By conducting software code audits regularly, you can maintain your software’s efficiency for lower costs and save your business the extra funds you would have spent on constant repairs and fixes.

When is a Code Audit Appropriate?

It can be hard to determine when you need to perform a code audit. That’s why we recommend hiring an in-house software developer or working with a development partner to maintain your product. This is less expensive and more efficient than waiting for an issue to run a code audit. However, if you don’t currently have a dedicated maintenance person or company, there are specific signs that reveal when a code audit is needed. If the following become true, it is time for a code audit:

• You experience suspicious activity or fall victim to hacks.
• Your software has recently been updated to the latest version.
• Productivity is suffering from sluggish operations.
• Your software requires constant checks and fixes.

There are also certain events or situations that call for a code audit. One example is the application for compliance certifications, like PCI. When applying for these certificates, you want your software to be running at its absolute best performance.

Why Invest in Professional Code Audit Services?

The primary benefit of app or software maintenance to stay ahead of issues. As the saying goes, “An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.” We always advice our development clients to invest in preventive maintenance; it protects the original investment they made in development.

However, if it’s too late and you’re already experiencing any of the issues above, contact us today. We can troubleshoot the issue and offer a thorough, forward thinking solution! Contact us to schedule a chat.