How to keep applications running on AWS Lambda secure with Datadog

Introduction

This tutorial will guide you through securing your AWS Lambda applications using Datadog. By the end, you will understand how to integrate vulnerability resolution into your daily workflow, enhancing the security of your applications.

Step 1: Set Up Datadog for AWS Lambda

• Create a Datadog account if you haven't already.
• Install the Datadog Lambda library:
  • Use the following command in your terminal to install the library:

    npm install --save datadog-lambda-js
    

• Configure AWS Lambda integration:
  • In the Datadog dashboard, navigate to the Integrations section.
  • Find and enable the AWS integration.
  • Connect your AWS account by following the provided instructions.

Step 2: Enable Security Monitoring

• Access the Security Monitoring section in Datadog.
• Set up security rules:
  • Create rules that fit your application needs, such as monitoring for unauthorized access or sensitive data exposure.
  • Use Datadog’s predefined rules as a starting point, then customize them based on your specific requirements.

Step 3: Implement Continuous Vulnerability Scanning

• Integrate continuous scanning into your workflow:
  • Utilize Datadog's vulnerability scanning feature to automatically detect vulnerabilities in your AWS Lambda functions.
  • Schedule scans to run regularly or trigger them based on specific events.
• Review scan results:
  • Regularly check the dashboard for vulnerability reports.
  • Prioritize addressing critical vulnerabilities first to minimize risk.

Step 4: Utilize Alerts and Notifications

• Set up alerting for vulnerabilities:
  • Create alerts based on the severity of vulnerabilities detected.
  • Configure notifications to be sent through your preferred channels (e.g., email, Slack).
• Respond to alerts promptly:
  • Assign team members to address alerts as they come in.
  • Track the resolution of vulnerabilities to ensure compliance and security.

Step 5: Regularly Review and Update Security Practices

• Conduct periodic reviews:
  • Schedule regular security reviews to assess your Lambda applications and Datadog configurations.
  • Adjust your security rules and scanning practices based on new threats or changes in your application.
• Stay informed:
  • Keep up-to-date with AWS and Datadog updates related to security features and best practices.

Conclusion

By following these steps, you can effectively secure your AWS Lambda applications using Datadog. Regular monitoring and updating of your security practices will help you stay ahead of potential vulnerabilities. Consider exploring more advanced features of Datadog as you become comfortable with the basics to further enhance your application's security posture.