3 Typical SBOM Examples and Their Applications for 2025

3 Typical SBOM Examples and Their Applications for 2025

In 2025, SBOM needs no introduction. As every product security practitioner knows, a Software Bill of Materials (SBOM) is an essential tool that provides a detailed inventory of all the components in a software product, and it has become the foundation of almost every product security program. This blog explores three typical SBOM examples, highlighting their applications, benefits, and structural differences.

What You Will Learn

•The definition and benefits of different SBOM types.

•How SBOMs support compliance and security.

•The structural differences among various SBOMs.

•Practical insights into managing SBOMs for better software security.

Introduction

An SBOM is a formal, structured list of components, libraries, and dependencies used in the creation of a software product. It plays a crucial role in software development and cybersecurity by offering visibility into the components and their associated risks, thereby aiding in vulnerability management and compliance. This blog provides practical examples of SBOMs in different contexts and illustrates their importance in enhancing software management and product security.

SBOMs are not only crucial for tracking open-source components but also for managing risks associated with proprietary software. With increasing cyber threats and stricter regulations, organizations need to ensure that their software products are transparent, secure, and compliant. An effective SBOM strategy can be a game-changer, helping organizations streamline their security processes and reduce the risk of exposure to vulnerabilities.

Download Now
SBOM for Connected Devices
SBOM for Connected Devices: Getting it Right (eGuide)

SBOM Example 1: Source SBOM

Definition and Purpose

A Source SBOM is created directly from the development environment, capturing source files and dependencies used to build a product artifact. It provides early visibility into potential vulnerabilities and licensing issues, enabling proactive management during the development phase

Common Components

•Source code files

•Dependencies and libraries

•Development environment metadata

Source SBOMs are typically generated using software composition analysis (SCA) tools. These tools scan the codebase to identify all included components, providing a comprehensive overview of the software’s foundation. By understanding the composition of the software early, developers can address security and compliance issues more effectively.

Structural Differences

Source SBOMs focus on the raw components and dependencies before the build process, contrasting with Build SBOMs that encapsulate built components.

While Source SBOMs provide valuable insights into the development stage, they may not reflect the final product. This limitation necessitates additional SBOM types to capture the entire software lifecycle comprehensively.

Management and Compliance

By identifying vulnerabilities early, Source SBOMs help teams address security and compliance issues before deployment, reducing downstream risks.

Source SBOMs also play a vital role in open-source license compliance. By listing all open-source components and their licenses, organizations can avoid legal risks associated with non-compliance.

Security and Efficiency

Source SBOMs enhance security by providing a transparent view of all components, making it easier to track and remediate vulnerabilities.

Moreover, they support efficient development by enabling teams to catch and fix issues early in the software lifecycle, thus reducing the time and cost associated with post-deployment fixes.

SBOM Example 2: Build SBOM

Definition and Purpose

Build SBOMs are generated during the software build process. They include all the components that contribute to the final product artifact, such as executables, libraries, and any other build dependencies.

Common Components

•Built artifacts (e.g., executables, libraries)

•Intermediate build files

•Dependency and version information

Build SBOMs provide a more accurate snapshot of the software as it is built, including the specific versions of components used. This level of detail is critical for tracking and managing dependencies, especially in complex software ecosystems.

Structural Differences

Compared to Source SBOMs, Build SBOMs offer a more complete and accurate snapshot of what will be delivered, including runtime and dynamic components .

Build SBOMs also include information on how components are integrated and interact during the build process. This insight is valuable for identifying and mitigating risks associated with integration issues.

Management and Compliance

Build SBOMs assist in compliance by providing a signed, verifiable record of all included components, essential for audits and regulatory requirements.

They also support continuous integration and deployment (CI/CD) pipelines by ensuring that every build is documented and traceable. This traceability is crucial for maintaining compliance with industry standards and regulations.

Security and Efficiency

The detailed inventory in Build SBOMs aids in efficient vulnerability management and strengthens the trust in the software delivery pipeline.

Build SBOMs enable automated vulnerability scanning and patch management, making it easier to keep the software secure and up-to-date. By automating these processes, organizations can reduce the manual effort required for security maintenance.

Watch Now
From Bill of Materials to Bill of Trust: Managing Trustworthy SBOMs for Mission-Critical Devices
From Bill of Materials to Bill of Trust: Managing Trustworthy SBOMs for Mission-Critical Devices (Webinar)

SBOM Example 3: Deployed SBOM

Definition and Purpose

Deployed SBOMs capture the actual software components present on a system post-deployment. They reflect the real-world use of the software, including runtime configurations and dynamically loaded components.

Common Components

•Installed software components

•System configurations

•Runtime dependencies

Deployed SBOMs are crucial for understanding the software’s behavior in its operational environment. They provide insights into how the software is used, which components are active, and what configurations are applied.

Structural Differences

Deployed SBOMs differ from Source and Build SBOMs by focusing on the operational environment, highlighting what is actively used or loaded during runtime.

This focus on runtime behavior makes Deployed SBOMs valuable for incident response and vulnerability management. They help organizations quickly identify and address issues that arise during the software’s operation.

Management and Compliance

These SBOMs are crucial for ongoing compliance, as they provide a current view of the deployed environment, facilitating maintenance and updates.

Deployed SBOMs also support software maintenance by providing a clear inventory of what is currently deployed. This inventory is essential for managing updates, patches, and other maintenance activities.

Security and Efficiency

By revealing the actual runtime state, Deployed SBOMs help organizations understand what is in use, improving incident response and vulnerability management.

They also enhance operational efficiency by providing detailed insights into the software’s performance and behavior. This information can be used to optimize the software for better performance and reliability.

Conclusion

Implementing SBOMs across different stages of the software lifecycle is essential for robust cybersecurity and compliance. Each type of SBOM—Source, Build, and Deployed—offers unique insights and benefits, from early vulnerability detection to post-deployment monitoring. Embracing these tools not only enhances security and efficiency but also fosters a culture of transparency and accountability in software development.

FAQs

1. What are the benefits of using SBOMs in different software development contexts?

SBOMs provide comprehensive visibility into software components, aiding in vulnerability management, compliance, and efficient software maintenance.

2. How can SBOMs impact the software supply chain management?

They offer detailed insights into the components used, helping manage risks associated with third-party dependencies and ensuring supply chain security.

3. What are some specific examples of challenges faced when integrating SBOMs into existing systems?

Challenges include handling dynamic components, ensuring accuracy across various environments, and integrating SBOM generation into existing development workflows.

4. How do different industries apply SBOMs in unique ways?

Industries like automotive, healthcare, and critical infrastructure use SBOMs to meet specific regulatory requirements, manage complex supply chains, and ensure product safety and reliability.

Book A Demo