Top 10 Must-Read Books on Web Application Security for 2024
In an era where web applications are at the forefront of our daily interactions, understanding their security is more vital than ever. Here’s a curated list of the top 10 books that every developer, security enthusiast, and tech professional should delve into.
1. Web Application Security: Exploitation and Countermeasures for Modern Web Applications
Authored by Andrew Hoffman, this book provides a comprehensive insight into web application security practices. It navigates through the most recent threats and remediation strategies that modern developers face. The balance of practical advice and theoretical understanding ensures that readers will not only learn the fundamentals but also the sophisticated aspects of securing web applications. Published on February 27, 2024, this book is a must-have for anyone serious about web security.
2. Web Security for Developers: Real Threats, Practical Defense
Malcolm McDonald’s Web Security for Developers is an accessible guide that targets web developers directly. It outlines real web threats and offers practical defenses, ensuring that developers can preemptively tackle security issues during the development phase. With practical case studies and examples, this guide helps to promote a mindset of security-first among developers. This essential read is a fantastic investment at $22.88, published on June 19, 2020.
3. Grokking Web Application Security
Set to publish on June 11, 2024, Malcolm McDonald’s Grokking Web Application Security approaches web security concepts in a unique format that simplifies complex topics into digestible chunks. This freshly minted title gives insight into common vulnerabilities while teaching how to defend against them, making it an ideal read for budding security professionals. The compelling narrative and illustrations make learning enjoyable and effective.
4. A Beginner’s Guide To Web Application Penetration Testing (Tech Today)
For those new to web security, Ali Abdollahi’s A Beginner’s Guide To Web Application Penetration Testing is invaluable. Slated for release on January 9, 2025, this guide walks you through the penetration testing methodology. It empowers readers to practically assess web applications for vulnerabilities before malicious actors can exploit them. The clear structure and approachable language make this book ideal for both novices and seasoned professionals wishing to refresh their knowledge.
5. The Web Application Hacker’s Handbook: Finding and Exploiting Security Flaws
This classic by Dafydd Stuttard and Marcus Pinto remains a comprehensive guide that every web security expert should read. Praised for its in-depth analysis of the web application penetration testing process, it covers a wide array of vulnerabilities and testing techniques. Published on September 27, 2011, it continues to be relevant today, ensuring that security practices evolve with technological advancements.
6. Hacking APIs: Breaking Web Application Programming Interfaces
Corey J. Ball’s Hacking APIs is a pivotal text that focuses specifically on the security of APIs, which have become the backbone of modern web applications. Published on July 12, 2022, this book offers readers a thorough understanding of how to attack and defend APIs, making it essential for developers and security professionals alike.
7. Bug Bounty Bootcamp: The Guide to Finding and Reporting Web Vulnerabilities
Vickie Li’s Bug Bounty Bootcamp stands out as a go-to resource for individuals looking to delve into bug bounty hunting. Released on December 7, 2021, this guide offers insights into finding and responsibly reporting web vulnerabilities, thus playing a crucial role in promoting a secure web. This book is perfect for budding ethical hackers eager to make a positive impact.
8. Ultimate Web Authentication Handbook
Published on October 23, 2023, Sambit Kumar Dash’s Ultimate Web Authentication Handbook covers crucial authentication methods that secure modern applications. From OAuth to FIDO, the book emphasizes leveraging cryptography to enhance web security. Its practical approach ensures developers can implement these strategies effectively, paving the way for improved user safety.
9. Attacking and Exploiting Modern Web Applications
Simone and Donato Onofri’s Attacking and Exploiting Modern Web Applications highlights the evolving tactics needed to exploit and attack modern web applications. This book offers detailed methodologies, tools, and techniques necessary for performing effective assessments. The August 25, 2023 publication is timely and provides invaluable insights into contemporary security threats that every IT professional should know.
10. Internet and Web Application Security
Mike Harwood and Ron Price’s Internet and Web Application Security, released on December 12, 2022, examines a broad spectrum of security challenges facing users and organizations alike. This comprehensive exploration looks at both foundational and advanced security measures, making it beneficial for a wide range of readers, from those new to the field to professionals looking to deepen their expertise.
