Do you have faith in your network’s current security? Does it secure you from external and internal threats? Do you have the right tools to defend yourself from a cyber attack? If you answer no to any of these questions, then you need to apply a zero trust network model.
What is a zero trust architecture? It is an information security concept used by many organizations today. It is based on the principle, “never allow anything unless verified.” A zero trust network model strengthens the defenses of a computer network.
Eliminating network trust is a key principle of a zero trust network model. It assumes that all traffic is hostile regardless of location. All users and device should undergo verification first. This is what a zero trust network model is all about.
Users should only have enough privileges to do their work. They should not have access to parts of the network outside their work coverage. Segmenting the network into smaller zones is key here. A zero trust network model requires verification for every network segment.
A zero trust network model enforces continuous inspection and logging of all traffic. This checks both external and internal traffic for any sign of malicious activity. After finding one, then it logs or records it.
Those are the basic principles behind a zero trust network model. There are also other versions or implementations of the zero trust network model, as well as many amazing benefits that you can get from using one.
The Benefits of a Zero Trust Network Model
The more we rely on technology, the more we enjoy using it. Choosing the best implementation of a zero trust network model is a matter of preference. Most important are the benefits you get from using it.
Here are the benefits you get from using a zero trust network model.
1. Applying a zero trust network model decreases the hassle of doing tasks.
Upgrading old computing equipment will cost you money. Upgrading both hardware and software components is practically the same as buying new workstations. Upgrading programs to newer versions is also expensive. And how will you deploy and configure both hardware and software components? This also adds to the bill. Using a cloud-based zero trust network model simplifies things. The software vendor or cloud service provider will do all the technical aspects so you can have peace of mind.
2. Using a zero trust network model resolves the lack of cybersecurity skills.
When there is a skill shortage, people often look for pros and hire them. This is not a cost-effective solution. They can do the work but it will cost you more. An alternative would be to let a third party manage your network from the cloud.
They can provide you with 24/7 and 365 security solutions, as well as the equipment needed, which is a good cost-effective solution.
3. The implementation of a zero trust network model secures business and client data.
A breach occurs because of human negligence and inadequate security measures. Having a zero trust network decreases the chance of a security breach happening. This is possible through the “never allow and verify everything” principle.
Segmenting the network into smaller zones and applying security perimeters is advisable. This is what they call microsegmentation. Imagine a military base under red alert status. That’s the kind of security level that a zero trust network model offers.
4. The use of a zero trust network model gives better safety and end-user experience.
Managing and remembering passwords is a headache. This only adds stress to the user and lessens productivity. A cloud-based security solution takes away all your hardships, and it will enhance user performance. It provides a continuous good user experience across various devices as well.
5. A zero trust network model lessens breach discovery time
Location does not ensure one’s safety. A threat can come from within the network itself. This means that internal users and devices are not an exemption. The old belief that threats only come from outside the network isn’t applicable anymore. All users and devices regardless of location need to pass verification first.
It is easier to detect and report threats because of the effect of microsegmentation. The network is under continuous threat detection, prevention, and remediation all the time.
Conclusion
You have learned what a zero trust network model is and the amazing benefits of using a zero trust network model. For more information, please click here.