Many organisations have understood that they need a new approach to digital workplace security – and that it is a matter of top priority. Cybercrime is the largest threat to our democracy and to our society-critical infrastructure, but also to your assets.
In the conventional security model, you implement perimeter protection, and then you blindly trust anyone and anything that’s inside your perimeter. According to the conventional security model, you may use anti-virus software, firewalls, and password-based credentials as an extra layer of protection.
Organisations are increasingly moving away from the conventional security model and adopting the Zero Trust security model. This identity-based security approach, which is based on the principle of “never trust, always verify,” ensures rigorous authentication and constant monitoring, essential in today’s security context.
This guide provides a step-by-step approach on how to implement Zero Trust security and architecture in your organisation.
What is Zero Trust architecture?
Zero Trust architecture is the framework for implementing Zero Trust security principles in an organisation. The Zero Trust model is based on the concept that you don’t trust anyone or anything before verifying who they are and what access rights they may have. That means every user or device needs a trusted identity, regardless of whether the access request comes from within or outside the organisation’s network.
Zero Trust architecture includes key components that work together to enforce the strict security protocols of the Zero Trust model. These components are continuous identity verification, least privilege access control, micro-segmentation, and continuous monitoring of network activity and access requests. It involves a layered approach to security, including security technologies such as multi-factor authentication (MFA), data encryption, and endpoint security.
Zero Trust architecture is especially effective in modern working environments where organisational perimeters have become fluid due to cloud computing, remote work, and BYOD (Bring Your Own Device) policies. By assuming that threats can exist both outside and inside the traditional network boundary, Zero Trust architecture provides a more robust and dynamic approach to securing digital assets and sensitive data.
How to implement Zero Trust architecture in 6 steps
Successful implementation of Zero Trust architecture is a multi-step process that requires planning and phased execution.
Here is a step-by-step approach to setting up an effective Zero Trust security model in your organisation:
Step 1: Identify users, devices, and digital assets that need network access
The first step is to identify and catalogue all users, devices, and digital assets that require network access. This inventory will help you understand the scope of what needs protection.
Begin by creating a detailed list of all users who access your network. This includes employees, contractors, remote workers, and any third parties. For each user, document their role, access requirements, and the type of data they need to access. This information is crucial for implementing least privilege access later in the process.
Identify and record every device that connects to your network. This includes not just company-owned devices like servers, desktops, and laptops, but also personal devices used under BYOD policies, mobile phones, and IoT devices. Each device should be assessed for its security posture and the level of access it requires.
List all physical and virtual assets. Physical assets consist of tangible resources like hardware and network infrastructure. Virtual assets encompass cloud services, software applications, databases, and any stored data. Understanding where your data resides and how it is accessed is key to securing it effectively.
Step 2: Identify sensitive data
The next step involves identifying sensitive data across your IT infrastructure, including on-premises servers, cloud storage, and endpoint devices. Types of sensitive data include personal identifiable information (PII), financial records, intellectual property, and confidential business information.
You then need to categorise the sensitive data based on regulatory requirements. Proper classification helps in enforcing appropriate security controls and managing access rights efficiently. Regular reviews and updates of data classifications are necessary to align with the evolving nature of the organisation and its data.
Step 3: Create Zero Trust policy
A Zero Trust policy is a set of guidelines and principles that form the foundation of a Zero Trust security framework within an organisation. This policy should define the methods of authenticating and authorising users and devices, and detail procedures for handling different types of network traffic and access requests. It is important to create the Zero Trust policy before designing the Zero Trust architecture to ensure it aligns with the established security principles.
Step 4: Design Zero Trust architecture
With a clear Zero Trust policy in place, you can move on to designing the Zero Trust architecture. This architecture serves as the structural framework of your network’s security. The design process involves these key components:
Micro-segmentation
Micro-segmentation involves dividing your network into smaller, controlled segments. Each of these segments operates independently, with its own specific security controls. This segmentation limits the potential for lateral movement within your network, reducing the overall impact of any breaches. You will need to define access controls for each segment, tailoring them to the level of data sensitivity and the needs of the segment.
Multifactor authentication (MFA)
Multifactor Authentication (MFA) enhances security by requiring multiple forms of verification before granting access to any part of the network. This could involve a combination of passwords, security tokens, biometric verification, or other authentication methods. By implementing MFA, the risk of unauthorised access is significantly reduced, as it becomes considerably more difficult for attackers to bypass multiple authentication barriers.
Least privilege access
The least privilege access principle dictates that users are granted only the level of access necessary to perform their job functions. By limiting access rights to what is essential, you minimise the potential damage in the event of a security breach. It is crucial to regularly review and adjust these access rights to ensure they remain aligned with the evolving roles and responsibilities within your organisation.
Step 5: Implement Zero Trust Network Access (ZTNA)
Following the design of your Zero Trust architecture, the next crucial step is the implementation of Zero Trust Network Access (ZTNA). ZTNA is a method of securing network access that verifies and authenticates every access request. This means evaluating factors such as the security posture of the device being used, the location from which the request is made, and the specific network resources being accessed.
The implementation of ZTNA involves integrating technologies like multi-factor authentication (MFA) and context-aware access controls into your network infrastructure. Context-aware access controls allow for the adjustment of access permissions based on the real-time context of each access request.
This implementation phase is critical in ensuring that all access requests are thoroughly scrutinised and authorised according to the security protocols of your Zero Trust architecture.
Step 6: Monitor your network
Continuous monitoring is a critical aspect of Zero Trust. This involves using advanced analytics and threat detection tools that continuously scan network traffic to detect unusual patterns, behaviours, or potential security vulnerabilities. Regular audits and adjustments to security protocols are also essential to stay ahead of evolving cyber threats.
Common Zero Trust implementation challenges
Implementing Zero Trust security will establish a strong security framework in your organisation. While essential, the implementation process can involve challenges that require careful consideration and effective solutions.
We highlight two key challenges commonly faced during Zero Trust implementation:
Integration with legacy systems
One common challenge in implementing Zero Trust is integrating it with legacy systems. Integrating Zero Trust architecture with these systems can be complex, as it often requires significant modifications or upgrades. The right Identity and Access Management (IAM) provider can offer solutions that seamlessly integrate with these systems, ensuring secure and efficient identity verification.
Managing complex access policies
Another challenge lies in the complexity of managing and enforcing detailed access policies across diverse IT environments. An IAM provider can simplify this process through automation and user-friendly interfaces, making policy management more manageable. By choosing an IAM provider that offers scalable solutions that adapt to various organisational sizes and complexities, you can ensure consistent enforcement of Zero Trust principles across all levels of the enterprise.
Implement Zero Trust with Nexus Group
At Nexus Group, our Nexus Smart ID solution is specifically designed to address the complexities of digital identity management within a Zero Trust framework. By simplifying and streamlining the management of digital identities, Nexus Smart ID ensures that access control is both secure and efficient. We provide the support necessary to overcome any Zero Trust architecture implementation challenges, ensuring that your organisation’s security is strengthened and compliant.
Contact us today to transition to a robust Zero Trust architecture.
FAQs about how to implement Zero Trust security
How long does it take to implement Zero Trust?
The time required to implement a Zero Trust security model can vary significantly depending on several factors, including the size and complexity of your organisation, the current state of your IT infrastructure, and the specific Zero Trust solutions you are implementing. For smaller organisations with relatively modern IT infrastructures, it could take a few months to transition to a full Zero Trust model. For larger enterprises or those with complex, legacy systems, the process could take a year or more.
Is Zero Trust easy to implement?
The ease of implementing Zero Trust depends on the existing infrastructure and the organisation’s adaptability to change. Proper planning, the right technological solutions, and a phased approach make Zero Trust architecture implementation manageable.
Why should I implement Zero Trust?
Implementing Zero Trust is crucial for modern organisations to enhance their cybersecurity posture, comply with regulations, and minimise the impact of cyber incidents. It offers a comprehensive security framework that continuously monitors user behaviour, device trustworthiness, and network traffic, enabling early detection and response to threats.