SBOM Lifecycle Management

SBOMs are living documents requiring continuous updates as applications evolve. Version control SBOMs alongside source code, enabling historical tracking and change analysis. When dependencies update, regenerate SBOMs to maintain accuracy. Link SBOM versions to specific application releases for precise component tracking. This versioning enables accurate vulnerability impact analysis when new CVEs emerge.

Automated update workflows prevent SBOM staleness. Configure CI/CD pipelines to regenerate SBOMs with every build, storing them alongside build artifacts. Implement drift detection comparing current dependencies against last known SBOM, alerting on unexpected changes. Schedule periodic regeneration for long-lived applications even without code changes, as vulnerability data evolves. These automations ensure SBOMs remain valuable rather than becoming outdated documentation.

Storage and distribution strategies must consider SBOM sensitivity and accessibility needs. While SBOMs don't contain source code, they reveal technology choices and potential attack vectors. Store SBOMs with appropriate access controls, limiting distribution to authorized parties. For software vendors, consider providing redacted SBOMs that omit internal components while documenting third-party dependencies. Implement secure distribution mechanisms for sharing SBOMs with customers or partners.