Secure software

Term

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Definition

Software designed and built to protect data and resist attack, with security considered at every development step; benefits are data protection and fewer cyber attacks and vulnerabilities.

Example: Secure software protects customer data and builds trust in the product.

Found in: syllabus, 2025 HSC marking guidelines, sample exam and familiarisation guidelines, school notes.

Where you'll use it in the test

Syllabus area: Y12 Secure Software Architecture.

Question types it can appear in

Short answer: Describe the benefits of developing secure software
Extended response: Use it as a supporting point linked to the stimulus.
Multiple choice: Pick the option that matches the definition or example.

Where it has appeared in the paper

Secure Software Architecture (Part D). Part letters follow each paper’s own layout.

How to use it

A model sentence

General advice, built from the definition and example above

“Software designed and built to protect data and resist attack, with security considered at every development step; benefits are data protection and fewer cyber attacks and vulnerabilities.” Then apply it: Secure software protects customer data and builds trust in the product.

In a short answer, give the definition in your own words first, then tie it to the situation in the question. Do not copy the example above unless it fits the scenario.

Command words used with it

General advice

No linked question shows the command word for this term. Across the past short answer and extended response questions in this bank the words used most are: Explain, Outline, Describe, Compare, Classify, Analyse. Check the actual word in your question.

Go deeper

Flashcard: Secure software in Secure Software Architecture (Year 12) · study that set
Memorise: Fundamental software development steps for secure code
Notes: Describe the benefits of developing secure software, including data protection and… (Secure Software Architecture (Year 12))
Notes: Evaluate the social, ethical and legal issues and ramifications that affect people and… (Secure Software Architecture (Year 12))
Notes: Describe the benefits of developing secure software (Secure Software Architecture (Year 12))
Notes: Skeleton: Assess/Discuss social, ethical and legal issues of secure software (5-6 marks) (Secure Software Architecture (Year 12))
Full term page: every question, note and marking comment for Secure software

Check yourself

Explain “Secure software” in one sentence, give an example, and name a question type that could test it.

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