Glossary

Zero Trust

Table of Contents

Grand door surrounded by 4 pillars

Key Takeaways

Zero Trust Security: Requires strict identity verification for all users and devices, regardless of their location.
Principles: Continuous monitoring, least privilege access, device access control, microsegmentation, and multi-factor authentication.
Benefits: Reduces attack surfaces, limits damage from breaches, and supports secure remote work.
Best Practices: Monitor traffic, keep devices updated, apply least privilege, partition the network, and incorporate threat intelligence.

Zero Trust Security Overview

Zero Trust security is an IT model that requires strict identity verification for every person and device trying to access resources on a private network, regardless of location. Unlike traditional security models, which trust anyone inside the network, Zero Trust assumes no user or device is trustworthy.

Core Principles

Continuous Monitoring and Validation: Verifies user and device identities continuously, requiring re-authentication.
Least Privilege Access: Grants users only the access they need, minimizing exposure to sensitive areas.
Device Access Control: Monitors and authorizes devices, ensuring they are not compromised.
Microsegmentation: Divides the network into small zones to control access and limit breaches.
Preventing Lateral Movement: Contains attackers by restricting their ability to move within the network.
Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA): Requires multiple authentication factors to verify user identities.

Benefits

Reduced Attack Surface: Limits access points for potential attackers.
Damage Control: Contains breaches to small segments, lowering recovery costs.
Secure Remote Work: Extends secure access control beyond traditional perimeters.
Mitigated Credential Theft: Decreases the impact of stolen credentials through MFA.
Enhanced Device Security: Protects against vulnerabilities in IoT and other devices.

History and Adoption

The term “Zero Trust” was coined by Forrester Research in 2010. Google’s implementation of Zero Trust security further popularized the approach. Today, it is a core component of secure access service edge (SASE) solutions.

Zero Trust Network Access (ZTNA)

ZTNA is the technology that enables Zero Trust security by setting up encrypted connections between devices and the resources they need, concealing most infrastructure and services.

Common Use Cases

Replacing VPNs: Offers a more secure alternative to traditional VPNs.
Supporting Remote Work: Provides secure access for remote workers without creating bottlenecks.
Cloud and Multi-Cloud Security: Verifies every request, reducing unauthorized cloud service use.
Third-Party Access: Quickly extends secure access to external contractors and partners.
Employee Onboarding: Facilitates rapid and secure onboarding for new users.

Best Practices

Monitor Traffic and Devices: Ensure continuous visibility and authentication.
Keep Devices Updated: Patch vulnerabilities promptly.
Apply Least Privilege: Minimize access for all users to reduce potential damage.
Partition the Network: Use microsegmentation to contain breaches.
Act as if No Perimeter Exists: Assume all network touchpoints are potential vulnerabilities.
Use Security Keys for MFA: Prefer hardware-based tokens for greater security.
Incorporate Threat Intelligence: Stay updated on the latest threats.
Balance Security and Usability: Avoid overly stringent measures that could lead to security circumvention.

Discover the Power of Enclave

As cyber threats continue to evolve, the need for robust, adaptable, and efficient cybersecurity solutions has never been greater. Enclave stands at the forefront of this challenge, offering a powerful platform that embodies the principles of Zero Trust. If your organization is seeking to enhance its cybersecurity measures, reduce the risk of breaches, and streamline compliance efforts, then Enclave is the solution you’ve been looking for.

Experience firsthand how Enclave can transform your organization’s security landscape. Schedule a demo today and take the first step towards a more secure, resilient, and compliant future. With Enclave, elevate your cybersecurity to meet and exceed the NSA’s best-practice recommendations, ensuring your network remains impervious to the ever-changing threat landscape.

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