5 Key Components of Zero Trust Security Models

Due to the ever-changing nature of cyber threats, the strategy organizations use for their cyber security needs to continue evolving as well. One newer approach that organizations have been adopting is a Zero Trust security model.

Many cyber security strategies focus on their perimeter defenses only. However, in many traditional cyber security models, if a cyber threat gets past those initial perimeter defenses, then there are often fewer internal network defenses to handle the threat. Zero trust security models will use a “never trust, always verify” principle for their security setup. Here we will explore 5 key components of zero trust security models, their benefits, and implementation.

What is Zero Trust?

Zero trust is a security framework that assumes no user or device should be trusted by default, regardless of whether the user or device is inside the network or outside. Rather, every time access is requested, the request must be verified before the access needed is granted. This is primarily in place to prevent lateral movement within a network.

Key Components of Zero Trust Security

1. Identity Verification – Zero Trust security requires continuous verification of user and device identities. Multi-factor authentication (MFA) and other identity verification methods to ensure that only authorized users can access resources.
2. Least Privilege Access – Zero Trust enforces the principle of least privilege. This means that users are granted the minimum access necessary to perform the tasks of their role. This reduces the attack surface by limiting the potential damage that could be inflicted by a breach.
3. Micro-Segmentation – Zero Trust security divides the network into smaller segments with specific security controls for each segment. This is another measure to prevent lateral movement within the network.
4. Continuous Monitoring – Zero Trust security requires continuous monitoring. Part of that continuous monitoring is an assessment of user behavior and network activity. The results of assessments are reviewed, and any suspicious activity is flagged and investigated for preventative measures.
5. Data Encryption – Zero Trust security ensures data is encrypted at rest and in transit. This is done to protect sensitive information at all points.

Benefits of Zero Trust

1. Enhanced Security – By verifying every access request and limiting access to the minimum necessary, Zero Trust significantly reduces the risk of unauthorized access and data breaches.
2. Reduced Attack Surface – As mentioned earlier, Zero Trust security requires micro-segmentation and least privilege access. Both of those reduce the attack surface of your network and make it more difficult for a cyber attack to be successful.
3. Improved Visibility – Due to the continuous monitoring of your network under a Zero Trust security model, organizations have improved visibility of their networks allowing them to identify and respond to threats quickly.
4. Compliance – Many organizations are now under certain compliance obligations when it comes to data. A Zero Trust security model can help an organization meet those compliance obligations.
5. Adaptability – Zero Trust security is adaptable and scalable for various environments. So whether it is on-premises, cloud, or hybrid infrastructures, using a Zero trust security model allows an organization to be flexible across its entire digital environment.

Implementing Zero Trust Security

A strategic approach and careful planning are required when implementing a Zero Trust security model. Here are a few basic steps to implement a Zero Trust security model for your organization. (Please note, these are general principles and not complete recommendations. Please consult your IT administrator for a more detailed and specific plan for your organization.)

1. Assess Current Security Posture – The first thing you’ll need to do is complete a thorough assessment of your current security posture to identify vulnerabilities in your digital environment.
2. Define Access Policies – Establish clear policies based on the principle of least privilege. Then determine what roles need access to which resources.
3. Implement Multi-Factor Authentication – Deploy MFA to authenticate that users are actually who they say they are. Using MFA adds another layer of security to the authentication process.
4. Segment the Network – Determine ways to divide your network into smaller segments. Then figure out what each segment will be used for and apply the appropriate security policies.
5. Monitor and Analyze – Implement continuous monitoring and analysis of user behavior and network activity. Using threat intelligence and advanced analytics you can begin responding to threats immediately.
6. Educate and Train – Educate members of your organization about the key principles of a Zero Trust security environment. Part of that education includes training that will help them know the best practices for secure behavior in a digital environment. You want members of your organization to have a security-conscious mindset so that it is a part of your organization’s culture.

Conclusion

While traditional perimeter-based cyber security models have their limitations, a Zero Trust security model provides organizations with the ability to stay on top of the latest in cyber threats. By implementing this model your organization can scale their security and flex it to fit a number of different environments.

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