WHAT IS A ZERO TRUST NETWORK?
Updated on October 22, 2022, by Xcitium
The old information security concept is no longer applicable today. Not all employees are happy with their work and their company’s management. This has led to the birth of internal threats coming from disgruntled employees. With this, you will need a zero trust security model to intensify your information security. But what is a zero trust network? What is a zero trust network and why do you need it? A network is a group of interconnected computers sharing information with each other. A zero trust security framework requires every user and device to undergo verification. Once successful, they then get access to the network’s resources. Authentication or verification is one of the primary network defenses against threats. It is important that your organization applies a zero trust architecture. What is a zero trust network and what do you gain from it? A primary benefit of a zero trust network is that it defeats firewall restrictions. A firewall can now observe inbound and outbound traffic for any suspicious activity. Encryption has also become a necessity in protecting data. What is a zero trust network and how to achieve it? Building a zero trust network from scratch is tedious. You have the option to pass this burden to a cloud service provider. They will provide the equipment and tools and manage the network for you. This is a cost-effective and convenient solution. You will learn more about zero trust security framework in the next sections. You will also understand the benefits of having a zero trust network and how to achieve one.
How Does a Zero Trust Network Work?
A Zero Trust Network works by continuously validating every user and device attempting to access company resources. Instead of granting broad network access, it provides users access only to the specific applications and data they need.
The process typically includes:
- Verify user identity with Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)
- Check device health and security posture
- Evaluate access request context and risk
- Grant least-privilege access
- Continuously monitor user activity
- Revoke access if suspicious behavior is detected
Core Principles of a Zero Trust Network
| Principle | Description |
|---|---|
| Verify Explicitly | Authenticate every user and device before granting access |
| Least Privilege Access | Give users only the permissions they need |
| Assume Breach | Operate as if attackers already exist within the network |
| Continuous Monitoring | Inspect and validate all activities in real time |
| Microsegmentation | Divide networks into smaller protected zones |
WHAT IS A ZERO TRUST NETWORK? — THE BENEFITS
There are many benefits to having a zero trust network, and here are just a few:
Benefit #1: Reduces Work Difficulty Upgrading every old component of your network is stressful and tedious. But what if you can forget all about the technical details? A cloud service provider can help you in this situation. They will lend you their hardware and software equipment and configure, set up, and manage your network.
Benefit #2: Reduces the Shortage Of Skills Cybercriminals are always looking for opportunities to exploit your network’s vulnerabilities. Do you have information security experts to help you combat them? There is a skill shortage in cybersecurity, and the demand for professionals is high. Hiring two or three pros is expensive enough. How much more if you need a staff of them? A cloud-based zero trust network is an ideal and cost-effective solution.
Benefit #3: Protects Client and Business Data You can stop data breaches from happening if you migrate to a zero trust network. An attacker needs to defeat various security measures for every network component. This would take time and lead to quick detection of their attacks.
Benefit #4: Satisfies the End-User Employees are inefficient if there are distractions around. Migrating to a zero trust network is a good solution to this scenario. A happy employee is someone who can work without any disruptions. This makes them productive and will attract more customers and business opportunities.
Benefit #5: Detects Breaches Quicker A zero trust network denies access to every user and device by default. Location does not show trust anymore. Remember the idea behind the Trojan horse? A threat can originate from inside the network at anytime. A zero trust network enforces the “never trust and always verify” principle. Spotting and stopping a threat before it can do any harm is the logic here. Prevention is always the best solution.
Zero Trust Network vs Traditional Network Security
| Traditional Security | Zero Trust Network |
| Trusts users inside the network | Trusts no one by default |
| Perimeter-based security | Identity-based security |
| One-time authentication | Continuous verification |
| Broad network access | Granular application access |
| Easier lateral movement for attackers | Limits attacker movement |
Benefits of a Zero Trust Network
Organizations adopt Zero Trust Networks because they:
- Reduce the risk of data breaches
- Prevent unauthorized access
- Protect remote and hybrid workforces
- Improve regulatory compliance
- Limit lateral movement during cyberattacks
- Strengthen cloud and SaaS security
- Enhance visibility across users and devices
Example of a Zero Trust Network
Imagine an employee working remotely who needs access to a financial application. Before access is granted, the Zero Trust system verifies the employee’s identity, confirms the device meets security requirements, checks the login location, and evaluates risk factors. If all checks pass, access is granted only to that application—not the entire corporate network.
WHAT IS A ZERO TRUST NETWORK? — THE BEST PRACTICES
Here are the best practices to follow in achieving a zero trust network:
#1: Update Network Security Policies Make it a habit to always review your security policies for any sign of weakness. Testing their effectiveness on a regular basis is also advisable. Make sure your people do so as well.
#2: Enforce Multi-factor Authentication (MFA) A single form of authentication is not recommended anymore. The ideal security measure is to use a mix of two or more authentication methods. Examples:
- Login authentication + Biometric authentication.
- Biometric authentication + One-time-password (OTP).
#3: Make No Exceptions for Verification Verify all users and devices trying to gain network access. Only give access to those who meet the security standards.
#4: Secure Everything Secure each network component through microsegmentation and perimeter segmentation. Every part of the network has its own set of security controls in place. Surrounding each part of the network with a perimeter type of defense is also necessary.
#5: Maintain Visibility Maintain visibility across the organization to avoid access abuse leading to data breaches. Enforcing restrictions on access is also vital. You don’t want every user or device gaining superuser or admin privileges. Review the list of user accesses and administrators on a regular basis.
Conclusion You learned what is a zero trust network is and the benefits of having one. You also understood how to achieve a zero trust network. For more information on what is a zero trust network, please click here.
Frequently Asked Questions About Zero Trust Networks
What is the main goal of a Zero Trust Network?
The primary goal of a Zero Trust Network is to prevent unauthorized access by continuously verifying every user, device, and connection before granting access to applications and data.
What are the three principles of Zero Trust?
The three core principles of Zero Trust are:
- Verify explicitly
- Use least-privilege access
- Assume breach
These principles help organizations reduce attack surfaces and limit cyber threats.
Is Zero Trust better than a VPN?
Yes. Unlike traditional VPNs that often provide broad network access after login, Zero Trust grants access only to specific applications and continuously validates users and devices throughout the session.
What is an example of Zero Trust?
A common example is requiring employees to use Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA), device verification, and identity checks before accessing cloud applications, regardless of whether they are working remotely or from the office.
What technologies are used in a Zero Trust Network?
Common Zero Trust technologies include:
- Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)
- Identity and Access Management (IAM)
- Zero Trust Network Access (ZTNA)
- Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR)
- Microsegmentation
- Continuous Monitoring and Analytics
