Understanding Zero Trust Architecture

Zero Trust represents a fundamental shift from traditional perimeter-based security models to a comprehensive “never trust, always verify” approach. This architecture assumes that threats exist both inside and outside the network, requiring continuous verification of every transaction and interaction.

Core Zero Trust Principles

Never Trust, Always Verify

• Assume all users, devices, and applications are untrusted
• Require verification for every access request
• Continuously validate trust throughout sessions
• Apply principle of least privilege access

Verify Explicitly

• Authenticate and authorize based on all available data points
• Consider user identity, location, device health, service or workload
• Evaluate request anomalies and risk patterns
• Use real-time analytics for dynamic decision making

Assume Breach

• Minimize blast radius by segmenting access
• Verify end-to-end encryption and analytics
• Use analytics to gain visibility and drive threat detection
• Improve defenses through continuous monitoring

The Evolution from Perimeter Security

Traditional Castle-and-Moat Model Limitations

• Implicit trust for internal network traffic
• Vulnerable to lateral movement attacks
• Inadequate for cloud and remote work environments
• Single point of failure at the perimeter

Zero Trust Transformation Benefits

• Reduced attack surface and blast radius
• Enhanced visibility and control
• Improved compliance and governance
• Support for modern work environments