Traditionally, perimeter-based security was considered an effective counter at keeping out unwanted visitors to the network. However, a significant flaw of this system was assuming that a person could trust those already within the network. This exposed the network to attacks from internal sources or sources with bogus internal IDs.
Security systems are needed to deal with ever-increasing network traffic with no more extended perimeter-based networks. Such a system of constant regulation is found in the no-trust approach of Zero Trust security. With exemplary implementation, it offers a vigilant cloud-based security model.
Components of Zero Trust
The Zero Trust security model assumes constant threat, taking necessary precautions against all devices attempting to gain access. Instead of assuming a device is trustworthy based on its access history or geolocation, trust and access adapt to each request. It also limits access to what needs to be shared.
The main components found in a Zero Trust model include:
Device and User Identification
Regardless of endpoints and user geolocation, no one can admit a device into the network without identification. This includes associating a user behind the device and its previous access history. Internal devices are not automatically granted access based on their position on the network.
Segregated Access
Many people other than authenticated employees access an organizational network. You should limit even employee access to what is necessary. Zero Trust makes this distinction when allowing access.
Real-time Trust Assessment
A device is not allowed onto the network based on its previous access history. All data regarding the device is analyzed in real-time. Decisions to allow or withhold access are made with each request based on updated information.
3 Keys to Zero Trust Success
There is no doubt that Zero Trust security is a reliable and effective cyber safety strategy. Zero Trust is being adopted worldwide and is quickly becoming a network security standard. However, successful implementation requires more than simply following a model. The three primary keys to ensuring your Zero Trust journey is a success include:
Identify Network Users
Determining who is on the network is essential before implementing security protocols. This step involves knowing which users will be accessing your network and what purpose. This is also to help determine what kind of access they will need to create data segregation.
To implement an effective Zero Trust security strategy, it is also essential to know where the users are on the network. Their role in the organization dictates the kind of access they should be granted. Even among employees, full access isn’t necessary. Access should be limited by the necessity for Zero Trust to be effective.
Develop Zero Trust Policies
Before any kind of system is implemented, it is essential to understand its goal. The primary intended purpose is data security, which you can break down into smaller goals at different levels. The policies should integrate goals with organization requirements, user access, segment implementation, and infrastructure availability.
As the goals inform the Zero Trust policies, they dictate what is required. Most importantly, you need IT infrastructure to implement and sustain consistent, real-time security on and off the cloud. Developing policies before an application can help guide the process. It can help identify more vulnerable areas and strength points, making the best possible use of the system.
Off-network Device Security
While a device is trying to access the network or is on the network, thinking that these same protocols are no longer needed once a device is off the network. The online activities of devices can, unintentionally, turn them into virtual bombs that detonate once they log back onto the system.
Cloud-based networks make it hard to manage device use, as they can be accessed from anywhere in the world, rather than restricted to the office. Real-time risk assessment and endpoint security are necessary to mitigate risk for remote access networks. Every device needs to be reanalyzed for risk, exposure, and potential before it can be granted access and determine the level of access it should have.
Conclusion
Zero Trust security implementation is becoming a basic tenet in cybersecurity systems. While integral to network safety, some critical focus areas ensure it offers the best available protection to organizations. Every Zero Trust safety assessment starts with device and user safety assessment, and policies should consider security on and off the network. Zero Trust can be used to create a minimal-risk network system with these factors in mind.
