Building software is like playing an endless game of updates—new features, UI tweaks, database changes, and more. CI/CD pipelines automate the code build, test, and deploy process, making DevOps workflows faster and more efficient. However, this speed comes with security risks, as each tool and integration can create potential entry points for threats, much like holes in Swiss cheese. A secure CI/CD pipeline is integrated from planning to every phase, treating every layer as a potential vulnerability. This approach requires continuous verification of every interaction within the pipeline. Key steps include setting solid policies, coding with security in mind, securing testing environments, and enforcing granular access controls based on least-privilege principles. The Zero Trust model assumes every layer is compromised and ensures that even if one layer has a gap, it won’t be a straight path for threats. By integrating Zero Trust principles, developers can build a more secure pipeline that keeps threats out, aligning layers to minimize risks and blocking attacks at every step of the way.