Common Implementation Challenges

Implementing CSP often reveals hidden dependencies and coding practices that conflict with security best practices. Understanding these challenges helps you prepare for a smooth deployment.

Inline Scripts and Styles: Many applications rely heavily on inline JavaScript and CSS, which CSP blocks by default. While 'unsafe-inline' provides a quick fix, it significantly weakens your security posture. Better alternatives include:

Moving inline code to external files
Using nonces for necessary inline scripts
Implementing event handlers via addEventListener instead of inline handlers
Utilizing CSS classes instead of inline styles

Third-Party Dependencies: Modern web applications often depend on numerous third-party services for analytics, advertising, social media integration, and functionality. Each integration potentially requires policy adjustments, and some may not be compatible with strict CSP policies.

Dynamic Content Generation: Applications that generate content dynamically face unique challenges with CSP. Server-side rendering, client-side templating, and user-generated content all require careful consideration to maintain security without breaking functionality.