As the technologies that support zero trust architecture move increasingly further into the mainstream, CIOs, CISOs and other corporate executives are rushing to adopt it. But what is zero trust? And why should you care?
As cyberattacks become ever more sophisticated, a zero trust network could be the best means of protecting enterprise systems and their data. This holds especially true in this new normal of remote working.
What is zero trust architecture?
The term “zero trust” essentially refers to a security method that runs counter to what we’re currently used to. It requires all users — even those inside the organization’s enterprise network — to be authenticated and authorized. In addition, it continuously validates security configuration and posture. It performs all of this before anyone is granted or allowed to keep access to applications and data. Rather than using the traditional “trust but verify” method, zero trust means precisely that: “Never trust, always verify.”
Why does remote work require zero trust?
Using a zero trust architecture doesn’t mean you don’t trust your employees. Rather, the opposite is true. The zero trust model assumes employees are not responsible for their security, putting the onus on the company’s IT organization. And from a corporate standpoint, it also means taking on a more global responsibility for dealing with the unique challenges of the modern world.
It’s simply an unfortunate truth that attacks on — and through — remote workers will continue to escalate. This not only puts their own corporate networks and data at an even higher level of risk than normal, but also has a detrimental effect on cybersecurity throughout the whole world. In other words, it affects all of us.
How do you implement a zero trust architecture?
If you’re looking for a starting place for adopting a zero trust framework, it can be a bit difficult to pick through to figure out the absolute basics. It’s a total overhaul of cybersecurity that will involve a lot more asking for permission than many users are used to. In general, however, the process looks something like this:
- Network segmentation
- Access management and identity verification
- Establish firewall privileges and rules
- Gather and analyze security log events
Depending on your organization’s current setup, adopting a zero trust posture can certainly be a lot of work. However — and we can’t stress this point enough — it is certainly worth it. In our next blog, we will share a more comprehensive guide for setting up a zero trust architecture. Regardless of the situation, you can count on V2 Systems to help you make these changes. We urge you to contact us for assistance in this important changeover.
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Since 1995, Manassas Park, VA-based V2 Systems has employed local systems administrators, network engineers, security consultants, help desk technicians and partnering companies to meet a wide range of clients’ IT needs, from research, to implementation, to maintenance. Concentrate on your VISION…We’ll handle the TECHNOLOGY!