Zero Trust Principles
Zero Trust refers to security principles based on the mottos “never trust, always verify” and “assume breach”. Always verifying approved access and operating under the assumption that breaches will happen.
The cornerstone principles of Zero Trust include:
| Continual Monitoring and Verification | Zero Trust operates on the premise that ongoing attacks can originate from both inside and outside the network. Continuous monitoring of users is essential, and no individual is automatically trusted. This necessitates the verification of user identity, device identity, and user privileges. To uphold the principle of continual verification, the system periodically logs users out and terminates device connections. |
| Micro-segmentation | Micro-segmentation is a strategy used to enhance network security by dividing the network into smaller, isolated segments. This approach limits the ability of attackers to move laterally within the network if a breach occurs. By creating these secure zones, organizations can apply specific access controls and policies to each segment, ensuring that sensitive data and systems are better protected. |
| Prevent Lateral Movement | Preventing lateral movement is a critical aspect of Zero Trust security. It involves restricting the ability of attackers to move from one system or network segment to another after gaining initial access. This is achieved through techniques like strict access controls, continuous monitoring, and micro-segmentation, which collectively reduce the risk of widespread damage during a security breach. |
| Multi-factor Authentication | Multi-factor Authentication (MFA) is a key component of Zero Trust security. It requires users to provide multiple forms of verification before gaining access to systems or applications. By combining factors such as passwords, biometrics, or security tokens, MFA significantly enhances security and reduces the likelihood of unauthorized access. |
| Least Privilege Access | Least Privilege Access ensures that users and systems only have the minimum access necessary to perform their tasks. This reduces the potential attack surface and limits the impact of any security breaches. By enforcing strict access controls and regularly reviewing permissions, organizations can maintain a more secure and efficient environment. |
| Assume Breach | The Assume Breach mindset is a proactive approach to cybersecurity that operates under the assumption that a breach has already occurred. This perspective drives organizations to focus on detection, response, and containment strategies. By continuously monitoring for suspicious activity and implementing robust security measures, organizations can minimize the impact of potential breaches and maintain operational resilience. |
ZTDR Reference Architecture Example
This ZTDR Reference Architecture example shows you how a Zero Trust platform could be deployed in conjunction with backup management and storage systems.
