Understand your software’s supply chain with GitHub’s dependency graph

Dependency graph with GitHub

GitHub's dependency graph allows you to understand your software's supply chain by visualizing the dependencies in your codebase. It reveals both direct and transitive dependencies, giving you a comprehensive view of where your code comes from. By enabling the dependency graph, you can track down vulnerabilities, identify upstream maintainers, and tighten your supply chain to ensure software security.

Benefits of the dependency graph

• Full visibility: Know which dependencies are direct vs. transitive, making up a significant portion of your codebase.
• Traceability: Understand how certain packages ended up in your project, such as the infamous Log4j vulnerability.
• Actionable insights: Determine what needs fixing on your end and what relies on third-party maintainers for updates.

Enabling the dependency graph

To activate the dependency graph in your repository, navigate to Settings > Security > Dependency Graph. Once enabled, you can leverage features like Dependabot for automatic vulnerability alerts and fix suggestions. These tools offer essential support for securing your software supply chain and ensuring the integrity of your codebase.

Conclusion

GitHub's dependency graph provides crucial insight into the composition of your code and helps you proactively address security risks. By embracing this visibility and utilizing tools like Dependabot, you can fortify your software against vulnerabilities and make informed decisions to protect your projects. Enable the dependency graph today to safeguard your codebase and streamline your development process. Your future self, as well as your security team, will appreciate the proactive measures taken to enhance software security.