OWASP: Open Worldwide Application Security Project in Cybersecurity
Like 'oh' plus 'wasp' (the insect).
OWASP stands for Open Worldwide Application Security Project. OWASP is the nonprofit foundation that produces freely available resources for application security, including the OWASP Top 10 list of critical web application vulnerabilities. It maintains testing guides, tools, and community-driven projects used globally.
How OWASP Is Used in Cybersecurity
Penetration testers follow the OWASP Testing Guide and target Top 10 vulnerabilities during web application assessments. Security engineers reference OWASP standards when building secure development pipelines and code review checklists. The OWASP Top 10 is a baseline requirement in most application security programs and frequently appears in compliance mandates.
Read the full glossary entry: OWASP Top 10 in Cybersecurity
Cybersecurity Roles That Work with OWASP
Related Cybersecurity Acronyms
Frequently asked questions
What does OWASP stand for?
OWASP stands for Open Worldwide Application Security Project. OWASP is the nonprofit foundation that produces freely available resources for application security, including the OWASP Top 10 list of critical web application vulnerabilities. It maintains testing guides, tools, and community-driven projects used globally.
What is OWASP used for in cybersecurity?
Penetration testers follow the OWASP Testing Guide and target Top 10 vulnerabilities during web application assessments. Security engineers reference OWASP standards when building secure development pipelines and code review checklists. The OWASP Top 10 is a baseline requirement in most application security programs and frequently appears in compliance mandates.
Where to go next
Three next steps depending on where you are. The first two are free.
Free · 2 minutes
Start with the AI Risk Score
Two minutes. Tells you how exposed your current role is to AI automation and which defensive moves carry the best return.
Start the AI Risk Score →Paid program · $147-$597
Aligned course: Career Transition
Capstone reviewed by the founder, published rubric, Ed25519-signed verifiable credential on completion.
View the course →Free account
Save your results and track progress
A free account stores your assessments, recommendations, and an exportable copy of your Career DNA. No card needed.
Create your account →Definitions are original explanations written for career development purposes. For authoritative technical definitions, refer to NIST, ISO, or the relevant standards body.