In today’s world of sophisticated cyberattacks and data breaches, traditional security models focused on perimeter defense are no longer enough. This is where zero trust architecture comes in.
Table of Contents
Zero trust architecture is a security framework that requires strict identity verification for every person and device trying to access resources on a private network, regardless of whether they are within or outside of the network perimeter.
The goal is to safeguard data and prevent breaches by eliminating the concept of trust from an organization’s security posture. No single specific technology is associated with zero trust architecture.
There are a few core principles that make up the zero trust model:
Implementing zero trust architecture involves changing how networks grant access to resources. It focuses on micro segmentation, granular permissions, and constant inspection of traffic.
Here are the key steps involved:
The first step is to authenticate and authorize all users and devices trying to access resources, even if they are already within your network perimeter. This means requiring factors like passwords, one-time codes, biometrics, digital certificates, etc. to verify identity.
Multi-factor authentication (MFA) provides an added layer of security by requiring multiple credentials to log in.
Once a user or device is authenticated, strict access controls are implemented to limit lateral movement across networks. The principle of least privilege access is followed – only the minimum permissions required are granted.
Role-based access controls define and limit what resources each user can access based on their role in the organization. This contains the damage if a breach does occur.
Zero trust architecture relies on assuming breach and constantly verifying all connections on the network. Next-generation firewalls, proxies, gateways, and other tools inspect inbound and outbound traffic to detect threats and anomalies.
Full stack inspection and encryption provide security for all connections and sessions, on and off network.
All endpoints – including mobile devices, servers, computers, IoT devices etc. must have security controls like antivirus programs, system hardening and patch management enabled.
Micro segmentation and least privilege access principles further minimize damage if an endpoint is compromised.
Finally, organizations need Security Information and Event Management (SIEM) tools to monitor networks in real-time, analyze logs, and detect any suspicious activity. Artificial intelligence can help identify zero-day threats.
This allows quick isolation and remediation of issues before they lead to larger breaches.
While zero trust can work with your existing infrastructure, these are some of the key components commonly used:
Here are some of the key benefits of switching to a zero trust model:
While promising greater security, zero trust also comes with some challenges:
Many leading organizations like Google, Microsoft, Walmart and others are adopting zero trust strategies:
Zero trust architecture takes enterprise security to the next level by eliminating implicit trust and constantly verifying every connection attempt. While complex to implement, it provides stringent protection for modern mobile and cloud environments facing increasingly sophisticated attacks.
Organizations need to assess their risk appetite, budget and resources available before beginning their zero trust journey. But combining legacy security tools with modern zero trust principles can help secure critical data and infrastructure in an untrusted world.
VPN or virtual private networks provide access to private networks when outside corporate firewalls. But they still assume trust for anyone already inside the network perimeter. Zero trust architecture verifies identity and grants least privilege access to all users, whether inside or outside the network.
The initial investment for zero trust implementation can be significant for larger enterprises. But it pays off in the long run by preventing hugely expensive data breaches and minimizing business disruption. Zero trust capabilities are also increasingly getting built into existing security tools and platforms.
One benefit of zero trust architecture is that it can work alongside existing legacy infrastructure and be implemented gradually. Critical systems and data can be prioritized first. But integrating zero trust does require updating firewalls, proxies, SIEMs, identity providers and other security tools.
Zero trust complements rather than replaces firewalls and perimeter security. Next-gen firewalls with capabilities like application-layer inspection continue to be an important data point for zero trust systems about user, device and traffic behavior on the network. But firewalls alone are not enough, zero trust goes steps further to authenticate and authorize all access.
In today's digital world, schools generate and handle more sensitive student data than ever before.…
In current times, the world pandemic has made people appreciate telehealth more. Telehealth refers to…
Haven’t heard of SASE before? You’re not alone. Standing for Secure Access Service Edge, SASE…
The presence of cyber risks could lead to a disruption in the operations of any…
IT teams require more effective approaches to monitor and control devices remotely as remote work…
Artificial Intelligence (AI) capabilities like machine learning, natural language processing and robotic process automation are…