What Are Zero Trust Networks And How Do They Work?

What are Zero Trust Networks and why are they the trending topic of conversation?  

Well, it’s probably all down to the ever-increasing sophistication of cyber threats. As a result, traditional security models are no longer sufficient. To drive this point home, cyberattacks are anticipated to cause $10.5 trillion in damages, a year, by 2025.

That’s why Zero Trust Networks (ZTN) are emerging as a revolutionary approach to network security and fundamentally redefining how we protect our digital environments.

What are Zero Trust Networks?

Zero Trust Network is a cybersecurity model founded on the principle of "never trust, always verify”. Unlike conventional security frameworks that rely on perimeter defences, ZTN assumes that threats can come from both outside and inside the network.  

Therefore, it enforces strict access control measures and continuous verification for every user and device, regardless of their location within or outside the network.

The Zero Trust concept was first introduced by Forrester Research in 2010. The central philosophy is that no entity, whether internal or external, should be trusted without verification. This model significantly reduces the risk of data breaches by ensuring every component within the network is scrutinised.

The three core elements of Zero Trust are:

• Continuous Monitoring and Validation: Constantly checking and validating the identity and intent of users and devices.

• Principle of Least Privilege: Granting only the minimum level of access required for users to perform their tasks.

• Assume Breach: Operating under the assumption that an intrusion has already occurred, thereby focusing on containment and damage reduction.

Core Components of a Zero Trust Network

To fully grasp what a Zero Trust Network is, it's important to know its core principles:  

Identity and Access Management (IAM): Defining and Implementing Robust Identity Controls

Identity and Access Management (IAM) is essential to the Zero Trust framework. IAM tools and techniques ensure that only authenticated and authorised individuals access the resources they need. This not only bolsters security but also streamlines user management across the network.

Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA): Enhancing Security with Layered Authentication

Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) is a critical element of Zero Trust security. MFA requires users to provide two or more verification factors to gain access to resources, adding a crucial layer of security. This reduces the likelihood of unauthorised access, even if one credential is compromised.

By employing MFA, companies can significantly mitigate the risk of data breaches and enhance their overall security posture.

Microsegmentation: Dividing Network into Isolated Segments for Enhanced Security

Microsegmentation involves dividing the network into smaller, isolated segments, each with its own security policies. This approach limits the lateral movement of attackers within the network, containing potential breaches to a single segment and protecting other areas of the network.

The primary benefit of microsegmentation is its ability to provide granular-level security, ensuring that even if an attacker infiltrates one segment, they cannot easily move to another.

Continuous Monitoring and Analytics:

Continuous monitoring and analytics are essential to the Zero Trust approach. These processes involve the real-time collection, analysis and response to security events. Advanced tools and technologies, such as Security Information and Event Management (SIEM) systems, play a crucial role in facilitating this monitoring and providing actionable insights.

Continuous vigilance allows organisations to quickly detect and respond to potential threats and maintain the integrity of their network security.

How Zero Trust Networks Work: Implementing Step-by-Step Security Measures

To further comprehend what is Zero Trust Network, it’s essential to explore how it works. The implementation of Zero Trust involves a series of logical steps designed to ensure comprehensive security across the network. These steps are:

• Step 1: Identify and Classify Assets: Start by identifying and classifying all assets, including data, applications and services to understand what needs protection.

• Step 2: Implement Strict Access Controls: Enforce stringent access controls to ensure that only authenticated and authorised users can access assets.

• Step 3: Continuously Monitor and Validate: Regularly monitor and validate the identity and intent of users and devices to detect any anomalies.

• Step 4: Enforce Least Privilege Access: Apply the principle of least privilege, granting users only the permissions necessary to perform their tasks.

• Step 5: Segment the Network into Microsegments: Divide the network into isolated segments to prevent lateral movement of threats and enhance security.

The Future with Zero Trust Networks

In conclusion, understanding what is Zero Trust Network is pivotal for any organisation aiming to enhance its cybersecurity posture. By adhering to its core principles and components, businesses can effectively protect their digital environments against the business connectivity landscape. This model not only strengthens security but also fosters a proactive approach to risk management.

Businesses looking to enhance their security posture should consider adopting Zero Trust principles. For more information on what is Zero Trust Networks, get in touch with our team today.