Explore the controversial topic of Web Application Firewalls (WAFs) in this 27-minute conference talk from Conf42 SRE 2024. Delve into the drivers for implementing WAFs, including hacker attacks, penetration tests, and compliance requirements. Examine common web threats like cross-site scripting, SQL injection, and DDoS attacks, and understand how WAFs attempt to mitigate these risks. Learn about WAF architecture, policies, and rules, including preconfigured options and custom rule languages. Critically analyze the limitations of WAFs, such as false positives, potential for blocking legitimate traffic, and the risk of complacency. Discover alternative approaches to application security, including secure coding practices and advanced cloud services. Evaluate the pros and cons of WAF implementation, considering factors like performance impact, pricing, and centralized security management. Gain insights on when to consider WAF deployment and how to choose the right solution for your needs.
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When Not to Use a Web Application Firewall and Its Alternatives - Lecture