Exploring the Concept of Zero Trust: A Comprehensive Guide

The Zero Trust Model: A Modern Security Framework

The Zero Trust Model is a security framework that requires all users, whether inside or outside the organisation’s network, to be authenticated, authorised, and continuously validated. Only then can they receive or maintain access to applications and data. This model assumes that there is no traditional network edge. Networks can be local, cloud-based, or a hybrid combination, with resources and employees located anywhere.

Defined by several industry guidelines, Zero Trust is one of the most effective ways for organisations to control access to their networks, applications, and data. It combines a wide range of preventative techniques. These include identity verification, behavioural analysis, micro-segmentation, endpoint security, and minimal privilege controls. This helps to deter potential attackers and limit access in the event of an intrusion.

Fundamental Principles of the Zero Trust Model

1. Re-examine all standard access controls

In a Zero Trust model, there are no trusted sources. The model assumes that potential attackers may be present both inside and outside the network. Therefore, every system access request must be authenticated, authorised, and encrypted.

2. Take advantage of a variety of preventative techniques

A Zero Trust model relies on a variety of preventative techniques to prevent intrusions and minimise damage.

• Discovery: These are essential for a Zero Trust model. Keeping credentials and devices ready for auditing is the first step. This helps to establish what is normal and expected in the network ecosystem. Understanding how these devices and credentials behave and connect enables organisations to apply effective identity challenges and progressive authentication to anomalies.
• Multi-factor authentication (MFA): This is one of the most common ways to confirm user identity and increase network security. MFA relies on two or more pieces of evidence. These could include security questions, email/text confirmation, or logic-based exercises to assess user credibility. The more authentication factors an organisation uses, the stronger its network security.
• Least Privileged Access: Zero Trust also prevents attacks by granting the lowest possible level of access to each user or device. This helps to limit lateral movement within the network and minimise the attack surface in the event of an intrusion.
• Email, Encryption, and Cloud Access Security Broker Solutions: Zero Trust preventative models can use these to protect credentials and ensure that challenges are extended to software service provider transactions.
• Micro-segmentation: This security technique involves dividing network perimeters into small zones to keep access separate to each part of the network. This helps to contain attacks. This can be done through devices and functions, or more effectively, by control, identity groups, and users. If an intrusion occurs, the attacker cannot exploit areas outside their micro-segment.

3. Promote real-time monitoring and control

Organisations must incorporate real-time monitoring resources to improve breakout time. This is the critical window between when an attacker compromises the first machine and when they can move laterally to other systems on the network. Real-time monitoring is essential to detect, investigate, and correct intrusions.

4. Align with a broader security strategy

A Zero Trust architecture is just one aspect of a comprehensive security strategy. While technology plays an important role in protecting the organisation, digital resources alone will not prevent intrusions. Enterprises should adopt a holistic security solution that incorporates endpoint monitoring, scanning, and endpoint response resources.

Finally, it’s crucial to have a solid incident response plan, as well as business continuity and recovery plans. This helps to mitigate any unexpected incidents or potential intrusions.