With cybercrime disrupting business activity every 40 seconds, the focus on global security is on the rise. A cyberattack’s frequency, sophistication, and cost can cripple some of the most reputable companies. Yet, according to IBM’s cost of a Data Breach Report 2021, whenever an organization implemented a Zero Trust architecture, there were fewer data breaches.
The term Zero Trust has multiple meanings. By definition, the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) states, “Zero Trust is the term for an evolving set of cyber security paradigms that move defenses from static, network-based perimeters to focus on users, assets, and resources. Zero Trust assumes no implicit trust is authorized for assets or user accounts based solely on their physical location.” Additionally, Zero Trust architecture requires organizations to continuously monitor and validate that a user and their device have the right
privileges and attributes.
Historically, if you were a valued employee, you were trusted and, by default, granted access or connectivity to anything considered essential to the job’s responsibilities. However, Zero Trust has become far more critical with the evolution of remote and hybrid work, coupled with the rise in mobile devices and cloud-based services. Zero Trust treats all users, devices, and resources as untrustworthy, regardless of whether they are the chief marketing officer or the newest intern working part-time.
While more restrictive, Zero Trust creates a far more secure environment. And because of its holistic approach, it has a wide range of benefits.
Benefits of Implementing a Zero Trust Architecture
Threat Protection
Zero Trust security treats everything as hostile. Users, devices, and resources are untrustworthy, and Zero Trust relies on strong authentication and authorization before any access or data transfer can occur. When you implement a Zero Trust architecture, you are allowing your IT team to pivot and better protect the assets across your entire enterprise, whether inside or outside the network perimeter.
Greater Visibility into all User Access
With more remote workers daily, people collaborate from anywhere using multiple devices. Adaptive identity-based access control allows administrators to control user access to applications, files, and network features, providing real-time security across all domains. This visibility to all data access activities enables you to easily flag unwanted behaviors or entries to the data.
Improved Security Policies
Many security models are based on a siloed approach to threat prevention. Each security tool was configured and operated separately from the other, leading to several vulnerabilities. Zero Trust can be created once and then implemented from end-to-end throughout the organization.
Enhanced User Experience
When it comes to passwords, there are many, and it can be difficult tracking the various passwords needed to access applications necessary for job performance. Zero Trust deploys single sign-on (SSO) tools that can simplify the number of passwords a user must track.
Conclusion
Today’s modern workforce is becoming more mobile each day. They access applications from many devices outside the business perimeter, and IT resources will be taxed to keep up with the demand. Add to the complexities and new business requirements driven by the digital transformation increase your risk exposure. Advanced threats are moving quickly, and traditional security models are no longer effective. Eliminate the uncertainty in enforcing accurate access decisions. Zero Trust is not only a good decision for your IT security, but it is also a much more efficient approach to protecting your business’ infrastructure. To continue growing your business, we must shift from unconditional confidence in users to a Zero Trust strategy.
