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Network Security Architectures - Zero Trust Architecture

By IncludeHelp Last updated : July 27, 2024

What is Zero Trust Architecture?

Zero Trust Architecture refers to a framework that demands proper identity verification for every person and device attempting to access resources on a private network, whether they are within or outside the network's edge. Unlike traditional "castle and moat" security models, ZTA assumes that threats can come from within and outside the network.

Core Principles of Zero Trust

1. Terminate Every Connection

By terminating every connection, Zero Trust architecture ensures real-time monitoring of all network traffic including encrypted data. We use an inline proxy for termination as it breaks and examines each connection thoroughly before allowing data to reach to its destination. Zero Trust works on a defensive mechanism as it inspects all the data for possible threats before it reaches its target.

2. Protect Data Using Context-Based Policies

The access requests are verified by this architecture based on multiple parameters including user identity, device type, and location. The dynamic nature of policies helps them to adapt to changing situations, which ensures that access is given only when necessary.

3. Reduce Risk by Eliminating the Attack Surface

In a Zero Trust model, there is a direct connectivity of the user with the applications, hence the capability for lateral movement by attackers is reduced. The internet doesn't have access to applications and resources, which prevents subsequent attacks. In this way, the number of pathways attackers can exploit is the least, thereby reducing overall risk.

4. Enforce Least-Privilege Access

Zero Trust follows the principle of least-privilege access. This principle grants users only the minimum level of access necessary to get their job done. Access levels are continuously adjusted based on current behaviour and context, limiting the damage potential if an account is compromised. This ensures that users and devices have the least amount of access needed, thereby enhancing security.

5. Proper verification

Zero Trust architecture ensures there are regular checks on user activities and device states to identify anomalies. Unlike traditional security models that validate access only at login, Zero Trust continuously enforces security policies throughout a session. By using behavioural analytics, the system can detect and respond to threats quickly, maintaining a high level of security at all times.

The Five Pillars of Zero Trust

1. Identity: The verification of identity must be done with Zero Trust by implementing least-privileged access controls.
2. Devices: There is a check on the integrity of devices accessing the network with Zero Trust.
3. Networks: Incorporating application workflows for network segmentation and protection.
4. Applications and Workloads: There is a need to protect applications based on identity, device compliance, and other attributes with Zero Trust.
5. Data: There should be a focus on securing the data by first identifying, categorizing, and keeping track of all the data assets.

Benefits of Zero Trust Architecture

1. Enhanced Security

With Zero Trust Architecture, access to specific data and applications is granted only to authorized users and devices. Upon verification of identities and continuous monitoring, it prevents malware and other cyberattacks from exploiting vulnerabilities.

2. Improved User Experience

There is an improved user experience with Zero Trust as it enables remote workers to access data and applications securely from anywhere. Unlike traditional VPN setups that can be slow and unreliable, Zero Trust allows for direct and efficient access considering security.

3. Cost Reduction

The deployment and management process is eased with Zero Trust, without any traditional VPNs and complex network configurations. This reduction in infrastructure complexity can lead to cost savings associated with maintenance, support, and operational overhead, which is a cost-effective solution for organizations.

4. Greater Visibility

With Zero Trust Architecture, we can gain insights into who accesses what data and when as it provides detailed monitoring and logging of user activities. This results in organizations detecting potential threats and anomalies in real-time effectively.

5. Better Risk Assessment

The risk assessment is performed better with Zero Trust Architecture as organizations can conduct the assessments using detailed authentication logs and behaviour analytics. The continuous evaluation of user and device behaviours against established security policies is done efficiently.