What is Zero Trust and Why Is It Important? 

An intense discussion and trend over the last few years has been to move away from on-premises installed applications and replace them with cloud services. This is also pushed by the service providers as they see many advantages in delivery, scalability, support, and maintenance compared to an application installed on every customer site. But as both applications and data move out of the private data centres traditionally protected by firewalls, you need to have another approach to security that is based on the identity of the user. 

In a hybrid environment, where you have applications and data both on-premises and in the cloud, identity and identity controls are the key to security. With a Zero Trust or identity-based security approach, you apply security mechanisms based on the identity of the user. 

This approach to cybersecurity moves away from traditional network security models, which assume everything inside an organisation’s network can be trusted. Instead, Zero Trust operates on the principle that trust is never assumed, and verification is required from everyone and anything trying to access resources in a network. 

In this blog, we explain what is Zero Trust security architecture, why it’s important, and how you can implement Zero Trust security in your organisation to protect your digital assets and network.  

What is Zero Trust? 

Zero Trust is an identity-based security model. This security model assumes no inherent trust and requires verification for every access request, regardless of whether the access request originates from within or outside the organisation’s network. 

The Zero Trust model differs from traditional security models, often referred to as perimeter-based security, which operate on the assumption that everything within an organisation’s network can be considered safe. With the rise of remote work, mobile access, and cloud-based services, the traditional security perimeter has dissolved, making the Zero Trust model more relevant. It recognises that threats can originate from anywhere and treats every access attempt as a potential risk. 

Zero Trust model principles 

The Zero Trust model is built on several key principles. Understanding these principles is essential for any organisation considering implementing a Zero Trust framework. 

Never trust, always verify 

The fundamental principle of Zero Trust is simple: never trust, always verify. This means every request for access to resources, regardless of where it originates or what device is used, must be authenticated, authorised, and continuously validated for security before granting access. 

Continuous monitoring and validation 

Continuous monitoring and validation within a Zero Trust framework ensure that security checks are an ongoing process. It's not just a one-time verification but a continuous process of checking and rechecking the security status of an entity trying to access resources. 

Least privilege access 

Least privilege access is another key principle of Zero Trust. This involves giving users only the access that is strictly necessary to perform their jobs. By minimising each user's exposure to sensitive parts of the network, the potential damage from breaches can be significantly reduced. 

What is Zero Trust security? 

Zero Trust security is the specific practices, technologies, and policies implemented to achieve the principles of Zero Trust in an organisation. It encompasses various security measures such as multi-factor authentication (MFA), least privilege access, micro-segmentation, continuous monitoring, and identity verification. Zero Trust security is the practical application of the Zero Trust model to strengthen an organisation's defences against cyber threats. 

Strict identity verification and access control 

Strict identity verification and access control is an essential part of Zero Trust security. This involves authenticating and authorising the identity of every user and device attempting to access resources in a network. This process often includes checking user identities against known credentials, validating device security compliance, and even assessing the context of access requests, like time and location. This ensures that only legitimate entities gain access, reducing the risk of unauthorised or malicious access to sensitive systems and data.  

Multi-factor authentication (MFA) 

Multi-factor authentication (MFA) is a crucial component of Zero Trust security. MFA requires users to provide two or more verification factors to gain access to a resource, making unauthorised access significantly more challenging. Instead of using only username and password, the user instead gets prompted to perform multi-factor authentication with the identities issued and/or approved by the company (OTP’s, mobile apps, smart cards, virtual smart cards, tokens, etc.). 

Multi-factor authentication can also be applied at different levels. For example, if the device being used is controlled by the company, joined to the domain, and authenticated to the corporate network with a certificate, then maybe for some services and applications single sign-on to the service is enough. If trying to access the same service from home or from the airport, multi-factor authentication is always needed to ensure identity. 

Least-privilege access implementation 

Least-privilege access in Zero Trust security is designed to minimise the potential risks within an organisation's network. This approach entails assigning users and devices the minimum levels of access needed to perform their duties or functions. For example, a regular employee may only have access to the tools and data necessary for their daily tasks, while an IT administrator might have broader access, but still confined to what is necessary for their role.  

Network micro-segmentation 

Network micro-segmentation is a method of creating secure zones in network architectures. Each segment functions almost like a separate mini network with its own specific access controls and security protocols. It's a crucial strategy in Zero Trust architecture to prevent lateral movement of attackers within a network. 

Device access control 

Controlling device access is another important aspect of Zero Trust security. This involves ensuring that only devices that meet the organisation's security standards are allowed to access network resources. Whether the device is a laptop, smartphone, or IoT device, its access to network resources is tightly controlled and monitored.  

Data encryption 

Data encryption is a security method where information is converted into a code to prevent unauthorised access. In Zero Trust security, data encryption is used to protect data at rest and in transit. This ensures that even if data is intercepted, it remains unreadable and secure.  

Endpoint security 

Endpoint security refers to the practice of securing endpoints or entry points of end-user devices such as desktops, laptops, and mobile devices from being exploited. Endpoint security in Zero Trust involves securing each network endpoint to prevent breaches and attacks. This includes regular fixing of vulnerabilities, antivirus protection, and endpoint problem detection and response systems. 

User behaviour analytics 

User behaviour analytics (UBA) are used in Zero Trust security to analyse patterns of user activity, establishing what normal behaviour looks like for each individual user or role within the organisation. By establishing a baseline of normal activities, these systems can then detect deviations or anomalies that could indicate potential security threats. An example of this would be a user accessing files they normally don't or logging in at unusual times. 

Zero Trust Network Access (ZTNA) 

Zero Trust Network Access (ZTNA) provides secure remote access to an organisation’s network. Unlike traditional Virtual Private Network (VPN) solutions, which grant broad network access, ZTNA provides a more targeted and secure connection to specific applications and services based on strict identity verification and least-privilege access policies. ZTNA also provides a better user experience by allowing users to directly connect to the required applications, streamlining the process.  

What is Zero Trust architecture? 

Zero Trust architecture is the framework for implementing Zero Trust principles within an organisation’s IT infrastructure. It involves the design and deployment of network systems, software, and protocols in a way that aligns with the Zero Trust model. This architecture typically includes segmented network access, stringent access controls, robust identity verification mechanisms, and comprehensive monitoring and logging. The focus is on creating a secure IT environment where security is integrated and pervasive, rather than being concentrated at the network perimeter. 

Why is Zero Trust important? 

Zero Trust security is vital for organisations looking to safeguard their networks effectively. This approach focuses on both external and internal threats, offering a well-rounded defence against various cyber threats like insider attacks, advanced persistent threats (APTs), and phishing. This is especially beneficial as modern IT environments become increasingly complex, with cloud computing, remote work, and BYOD (Bring Your Own Device) policies blurring the traditional network perimeter. 

It is also important for industries with strict data protection and privacy regulations to utilise Zero Trust security. It enables these organisations to meet rigorous compliance standards by offering effective security for sensitive information.  

Zero Trust security focuses on continuous monitoring and validation. This allows organisations to quickly adapt to emerging threats and changing business requirements, making it a future-proof approach to cybersecurity. 

How to implement Zero Trust security 

Implementing Zero Trust security requires a comprehensive approach that encompasses identity verification, network segmentation, endpoint security, and ongoing monitoring. You can utilise our Zero Trust checklist to ensure accuracy during the implementation process.  

We highlight five steps in Zero Trust security implementation:  

Step 1: Conduct a security audit and define policies  

Start with a comprehensive security audit to understand your current network and data security state. Identify sensitive data, key assets, and potential vulnerabilities. Based on this, define clear Zero Trust policies, including access control, identity verification, and user behaviour guidelines. 

Step 2: Implement strong identity verification and access control 

Introduce multi-factor authentication (MFA) across your organisation to ensure robust identity verification. Establish least privilege access principles, giving users and devices only the necessary access to perform their roles. 

Step 3: Employ network micro-segmentation 

Within your Zero Trust architecture, divide your network into smaller, isolated segments. This step involves setting up security controls for each segment to restrict movement within the network and enhance security. 

Step 4: Strengthen endpoint security and monitoring 

Ensure all devices accessing the network are secure and meet established security standards. Implement continuous monitoring solutions, like intrusion detection systems and user behaviour analytics, to identify and respond to potential threats promptly. 

Step 5: Regular review and adaptation 

Zero Trust security is an ongoing process. Regularly review and adjust your security measures, policies, and technologies to adapt to new threats and changing organisational needs. This includes continuous training and awareness programs for employees. 

Achieve Zero Trust Security with Nexus Group 

Implement Zero Trust security in your organisation with Nexus Smart ID. Our Smart ID solution enhances security measures by providing a robust platform for secure, passwordless authentication and stringent access control. By choosing Nexus Smart ID, you gain a comprehensive security strategy tailored to meet the evolving challenges of online working environments. 

Get in touch to discuss how you can manage trusted identities in your organisation with Smart ID.  

FAQs about Zero Trust 

What is not a principle of Zero Trust security? 

Zero Trust does not assume that everything inside the network can be trusted. This is a key difference between Zero Trust and traditional security models. 

What are the goals of Zero Trust? 

The goals of Zero Trust include preventing data breaches, protecting user data, and ensuring secure access to network resources, regardless of location or device. 

Does Zero Trust replace VPN? 

Zero Trust does not necessarily replace virtual private networks (VPNs) but rather complements them. Zero Trust Network Access (ZTNA) is a more specific and secure solution compared to traditional VPN access.