Book excerpt: Howard and LeBlanc (both are security experts with Microsoft) discuss the need for security and outline its general principles before outlining secure coding techniques. Testing, installation, documentation, and error messages are also covered. Appendices discuss dangerous APIs, dismiss pathetic excuses, and provide security checklists. The book explains how systems can be attacked, uses anecdotes to illustrate common mistakes, and offers advice on making systems secure. Annotation copyrighted by Book News, Inc., Portland, OR.