As a certified professional holding multiple industry certifications including CEH, DevSecOps Engineering, and various security certifications, Karthikeyan has established himself as a trusted expert in implementing robust security solutions across enterprise environments.
Karthikeyan Ramdass, a Cybersecurity Solutions Architect based in Atlanta, Georgia, brings over 16 years of extensive experience in Application Security, Vulnerability Assessment, and DevSecOps. As a certified professional holding multiple industry certifications including CEH, DevSecOps Engineering, and various security certifications, Karthikeyan has established himself as a trusted expert in implementing robust security solutions across enterprise environments.
Q 1: What inspired you to specialize in cybersecurity and application security?
A: The ever-evolving nature of cyber threats and the critical importance of securing applications in our digital world drew me to this field. I witnessed how vulnerable organizations could be without proper security measures, and I wanted to make a difference. The dynamic nature of application security, where you’re constantly learning and adapting to new threats, really appealed to my problem-solving mindset. It’s fulfilling to help organizations protect their assets while enabling them to innovate safely.
Q 2: How has your approach to application security evolved over your career?
A: Early in my career, security was often seen as a final checkpoint. However, I’ve been instrumental in shifting this perspective toward a “security-first” approach, particularly through DevSecOps implementation. I’ve seen the industry evolve from manual security testing to automated, integrated security solutions across the CI/CD pipeline. This evolution has taught me the importance of embedding security at every stage of the development lifecycle while maintaining a balance between security and business agility.
Q 3: What do you consider to be the most critical aspects of application security testing?
A: In my experience, effective application security testing requires a multi-layered approach combining SAST, DAST, and SCA. Each layer provides unique insights into potential vulnerabilities. Static analysis helps catch issues early in the development cycle, dynamic testing reveals runtime vulnerabilities, and composition analysis ensures the safety of third-party components. However, the most critical aspect is not just finding vulnerabilities but providing actionable remediation guidance to development teams.
Q 4: Could you share a challenging project that stands out in your career?
A: One particularly challenging project involved implementing a comprehensive DevSecOps solution for a large enterprise with numerous legacy applications. The challenge was integrating security automation into their existing CI/CD pipeline without disrupting development workflows. We successfully implemented automated security gates, vulnerability assessment tools, and custom security policies. This required careful planning, extensive collaboration with development teams, and a phased implementation approach that eventually led to a more secure and efficient development process.
Q 5: How do you approach security architecture reviews?
A: Security architecture reviews require a holistic understanding of both business requirements and technical constraints. I follow a systematic approach that begins with understanding the business context and compliance requirements. Then, I examine the technical architecture, looking for potential security gaps and areas for improvement. The key is to provide practical, implementable recommendations that enhance security while supporting business objectives.
Q 6: What role does compliance play in your security implementations?
A: Compliance requirements like PCI, HIPAA, and industry standards such as OWASP Top-10 and SANS 25 provide important baseline security controls. However, I believe in going beyond mere compliance to implement truly robust security measures. This involves understanding the spirit of compliance requirements and implementing controls that not only meet regulatory standards but also provide real security value to the organization.
Q 7: How do you handle vulnerability management across large organizations?
A: Effective vulnerability management requires a structured approach combining tools, processes, and people. I focus on implementing automated scanning tools integrated with vulnerability management platforms for consistent tracking and reporting. Priority is given to high-risk vulnerabilities while maintaining a comprehensive view of the security landscape. Regular communication with stakeholders and clear remediation processes are crucial for success.
Q 8: What’s your approach to security tool evaluation and selection?
A: Tool selection must align with organizational needs, technical requirements, and security objectives. I evaluate tools based on multiple criteria including effectiveness, integration capabilities, scalability, and total cost of ownership. Having worked with various tools like AppScan, Checkmarx, and Veracode, I understand that each has its strengths. The key is selecting tools that complement each other and provide comprehensive coverage while fitting within the organization’s operational framework.
Q 9: How do you stay current with evolving security threats and technologies?
A: Continuous learning is essential in cybersecurity. I maintain numerous certifications, participate in security conferences, and actively engage with the security community. Regular research into emerging threats and attack vectors helps me stay ahead of potential risks. I also believe in sharing knowledge with peers and mentoring others in the field.
Q 10: What advice would you give to those starting in application security?
A: Build a strong foundation in both development and security principles. Understanding how applications work is crucial for securing them effectively. Focus on hands-on experience with security tools and techniques, but don’t forget the importance of understanding business context. Stay curious, keep learning, and remember that security is an ongoing journey, not a destination.
About Karthikeyan Ramdass
Karthikeyan Ramdass is a distinguished Cybersecurity Solutions Architect with extensive experience in application security, vulnerability assessment, and DevSecOps implementation. His expertise spans across multiple domains including DAST, SAST, and SCA, complemented by numerous professional certifications. Through his career, he has helped organizations strengthen their security posture while enabling business innovation. His commitment to continuous learning and practical approach to security solutions has made him a respected voice in the cybersecurity community.
First Published: 12 June, 2022