Why the Benefits of Zero Trust Outweigh Traditional Security Models

Every organization needs an effective cybersecurity framework, but choosing and implementing the right one is not an easy task. There are more frameworks than ever before for companies to choose from, and selecting one from the myriad of options can be incredibly confusing.

Selecting a cybersecurity model becomes especially complicated for organizations with operational complexity. For this type of modern company, network perimeters are no longer localized. They have remote workers, multiple locations, numerous third-party relationships and a dynamic environment—all factors that contribute to vulnerabilities in network processes and infrastructure.

One unique cybersecurity framework stands out as a strong choice for businesses just like this: the Zero Trust model.

Here, we outline the benefits of Zero Trust, the way it works and exactly how it can help keep your organization protected.

What is Zero Trust?

Most traditional cybersecurity models operate on the assumption that certain connections can be trusted by default. In contrast, Zero Trust is a cybersecurity model that follows the principle “never trust, always verify.”

Zero Trust assumes that nothing inside or outside of your network is safe and that everything—all users, devices, applications, etc.—should be treated as a potential threat. This principle is followed whether the network is on the premises, in the cloud or is hybrid.

How Does Zero Trust Work?

Zero Trust involves applying multiple strategies and using select technologies to create a secure environment.

Zero Trust is implemented by applying a series of stringent security measures that continuously verify and validate every access request. Every internal and external user must be authenticated and authorized using technologies like multi-factor authentication and endpoint verification solutions.

After verification, the user is granted the minimum level of access necessary. The validation of access requests is continuous as the user navigates the network, helping to enforce microsegmentation, no matter where the user is located or their relationship to your organization.

Zero Trust also requires the continuous, real-time monitoring of user, device and application activity to detect and respond to threats. Data is collected and analyzed from every aspect of your organization’s attack surface to reveal vulnerabilities and to lower risk.

Does Zero Trust Violate My Employees’ Privacy?

When implementing a Zero Trust approach to cybersecurity, you do not have to sacrifice your employees’ privacy.

The only data that is collected is the data needed to be able to detect anomalies and potential threats. Personal data and activities are not targeted.

Organization leaders should clearly communicate to their employees the details about Zero Trust so that they understand that their privacy is respected.

What Are the Benefits of Zero Trust?

For some companies, Zero Trust is a great cybersecurity framework option because of its unique advantages.

Some of the most popular benefits of Zero Trust are:

• Reduced risk of unauthorized access to your systems – Because of Zero Trust’s strict access control, you can regulate who has access to every part of your organization’s systems.
• More effective monitoring – Zero Trust’s continuous monitoring, supported by gathering data from a range of resources, can help with real-time threat detection and response. When threats are detected sooner, you can respond to them faster.
• Limited impact if a breach occurs – One of the key benefits of Zero Trust is the microsegmentation and isolation of devices and other endpoints. This means that if one endpoint is compromised, the attacker will be unable to move laterally within the system to access other network resources. The breach is contained to that one device.
• Support for flexible work arrangements – Organizations can be confident that their systems are protected wherever remote access is required. This is especially helpful for companies that offer remote work, support hybrid arrangements or whose employees travel regularly for work. Because Zero Trust doesn’t rely on location, verification and authentication rules apply for anyone trying to access the network from wherever they are.
• Alignment with many compliance requirements – Applying Zero Trust can make it easier to remain in compliance with data and network security requirements that exist for nearly all industries. This is particularly useful for organizations in the finance, governmental and healthcare industries which have particularly stringent requirements.
• Reduced need for multiple security systems – You won’t have to apply different policies that exist in their own silos. Every policy and technology used to implement Zero Trust supplements each other and works in concert to manage access to and protect network resources. Applying Zero Trust may also lead to lower security costs overall.
• Improved operational efficiency – By applying Zero Trust across your entire network, you can simplify and automate IT functions and enhance the efficiency of your data protection efforts.

Learn More About the Benefits of Zero Trust and How To Protect Your Organization

Zero Trust is a strategic approach to cybersecurity that can give your organization the security posture to withstand current and emerging threats.

Your organization’s specific needs, its current cybersecurity strategy and its degree of digital transformation will dictate exactly how you need to implement Zero Trust and if it’s really the best fit for you.

To learn more, connect with a Warren Averett Technology Group advisor to schedule a consultation.