Zero trust is a security approach that requires strict authentication and authorization for every request for access, regardless of the user’s location or device. It follows the principle of “never trust, always verify.”
Built on the overarching principle that only verified persons interact with sensitive systems, the Zero Trust security architecture has increasingly been formalized to ensure digital transformation.
Why is Zero Trust Security Important?
Over 90% of businesses worldwide have fully adopted cloud technologies that allow users to access resources from multiple devices. Given the complexity of these technologies, traditional security models can’t defend against advanced cyber threats. Zero Trust security reduces entry points and blocks lateral movement within the network.
The top benefits of zero trust include:
- Limits exposure to potential threats by restricting access based on user identity and role.
- Helps meet regulatory requirements with robust authentication measures.
- Ensures sensitive information is only accessible to verified users.
- Limits the blast radius of breaches, preventing further damage.
What are the Principles of Zero Trust Security?
Zero Trust operates on three core principles that guide its framework and ensure a robust security posture:
1) Continuous Verification
Trust is never assumed. Every access request undergoes authentication and authorization checks from a new user or one already within the network. Continuous verification ensures that access rights remain valid, even during ongoing sessions. This makes it almost impossible for attackers to exploit weak points.
2) Least-Privilege Access
Users are given only the access they need to perform their tasks. Zero Trust restricts access to critical systems by limiting permissions, making it difficult for attackers to access sensitive data, even if they compromise a user account.
3) Minimize Blast Radius
The network is divided into smaller zones, similar to firewalls within a building. If an attacker breaches one area, this segmentation prevents them from moving freely across the network. It also limits the impact of an attack to a specific zone.
Zero Trust Architecture - NIST 800-207
The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) developed the NIST 800-207 framework to guide organizations in implementing Zero Trust Architecture effectively. 
Policy Engine
The policy engine is a component responsible for making access decisions. It evaluates incoming requests against established security policies and contextual factors like device health and location. Its primary objective is to ensure access decisions are based on real-time data.
Policy Enforcement Point (PEP)
PEP acts based on decisions made by the policy engine. It either grants or denies entry based on the policies defined. This component is crucial for enforcing security measures and ensuring that only authorized users access sensitive information.
Policy Administrator
The Policy Administrator manages communication between the policy engine and the enforcement point. It helps configure security policies and ensures they are correctly applied. It also monitors logs and access requests, providing valuable insights for compliance checks.
Pillars of The Zero Trust Network & How it Works
Zero Trust Network requires that all users be authenticated and continuously validated before access. It also ensures that security configurations are regularly assessed.
2) Network Segmentation: This is the division of the network into smaller, isolated zones with specific access controls. It reduces the opportunity for free movement within the network.
3) Data Micro-Segmentation: Sensitive data is divided into granular segments. This component applies strict access controls to each segment and minimizes the impact even if a breach occurs. It also ensures that only users with explicit permissions can access specific data sets.
4) Endpoint Management: This component authenticates devices that access the network, ensuring that only compliant devices interact with network resources.
5) Threat Detection and Response: It emphasizes continuous network monitoring for suspicious activities. Rapid response capabilities are crucial in limiting the impact of threats.
A Guide to Implement Zero Trust Model Security
Implementing a Zero Trust model requires significant effort. As businesses grow and face new challenges, their security approach must evolve. Here’s a guide to building a robust Zero Trust framework.
1) Assess Existing Resources
Look at your current environment and audit all IT assets, including networks, servers, workstations, applications, and data to uncover vulnerabilities. Identify weaknesses such as missing security patches, outdated software, misconfigurations, and unauthorized access points. Prioritize the most critical gaps by focusing on assets that are essential to your operations and those with the highest risk of exploitation.
2) Select the Right Zero Trust Provider
Selecting the right Zero Trust provider is as good as implementing it correctly. An effective Zero Trust security model should include robust identity authentication methods, such as SSO and MFA while ensuring comprehensive device management and monitoring. It must incorporate micro-segmentation to limit lateral movement within the network and maintain visibility into applications accessing your system. Above all, it should prioritize safeguarding your data at every level.
A product like Microsoft Intune allows you to configure policies that become part of the authentication and authorization process.
3) Implement Identity and Access Management (IAM)
Identity management is the core of the Zero Trust model. You must know your users' identities and verify every request they make. Multi-factor authentication (MFA) adds an extra layer of security, ensuring unauthorized users with misplaced credentials are kept out.
Also, consider implementing passwordless authentication methods, which reduce reliance on passwords. The goal is to ensure that users are who they claim to be without making their experience difficult.
4) Apply Micro-Segmentation and Policy Enforcement
Micro-segmentation involves dividing your network into smaller, manageable segments. If a breach occurs in one part of the network, it won’t spread. Each segment should have access policies that enforce the principle of least privilege, meaning users only have access to what they need. This prevents attackers from moving laterally in the event of a breach.
5) Train Employees and Create a Security-First Culture
No security system is complete without informed users. Employees are the first line of defense and, at times, the weakest link. Regular training is crucial to help them understand risks and their role in protecting systems. Simple habits, like recognizing phishing attempts and avoiding risky online behavior, can prevent many security incidents. The more educated your staff is, the fewer chances attackers have to exploit human error.
6) Use Automation and Response Tools
Today’s digital environment evolves so fast that relying on manual threat detection is no longer practical. Cyber threats are becoming more sophisticated, and the speed at which they emerge makes it nearly impossible for manual tools to keep up. Automated threat detection tools offer a proactive solution, continuously scanning your systems for anomalies and identifying potential threats before they escalate into serious risks.
Why Choose CrucialLogics for Zero Trust?
The Zero Trust security architecture is designed to eliminate security gaps by requiring strict authentication and authorization for every access request, regardless of the user's location or device.
CrucialLogics delivers tailored Zero Trust solutions built on the foundation of Microsoft technologies. Rather than relying on third-party vendors, we use Microsoft Intune to enforce policies that integrate seamlessly with your existing infrastructure, becoming part of your authentication and authorization processes.
Speak with us today for expert consultation and a personalized security assessment.
