ZERO TRUST NETWORK ACCESS
The Zero-Trust Network Access (ZTNA) model has been transformative for many organisations, and its effectiveness can be further enhanced through the use of artificial intelligence. ZTNA operates on a “no-trust” policy, which forms the basis of zero-trust security. The key principle is that it assumes threats may exist both inside and outside the system perimeter. As a result, before any device can connect to a network—whether within or outside the perimeter—strict authentication is required. This approach contrasts with traditional security models, which tend to trust any device within the network.
TRADITION VERSUS ZERO TRUST
Traditional network security makes it difficult for users to gain access, but once a user is inside, they are automatically trusted. In today’s technology-driven world, this approach is no longer effective. Organisations no longer store data in a single location; instead, they rely on multiple systems and cloud providers. The shift to remote working during the COVID-19 pandemic further complicated matters, leading to a rise in cybercrime. The FBI’s cyber division reported receiving 3,000 to 4,000 security complaints daily, highlighting the increased security risks. Given these changes, adopting systems that trust no one, whether inside or outside the network perimeter, is becoming more sensible. Zero-trust security continuously monitors and verifies all requests to ensure they come from authorised users. It also enforces session timeouts, requiring users to re-authenticate if they wish to continue their session.
MORE PROTECTION AND AUTHENTICATION
Another factor that enhances ZTNA’s effectiveness in threat protection is its use of micro-segmentation, which divides the network into smaller, isolated segments. A user with access to one segment will not automatically have permission to access another, thereby increasing the overall security of the system. Zero-trust security, by employing micro-segmentation, can contain threats by isolating malicious actors, preventing them from compromising other parts of the network. Additionally, ZTNA relies heavily on multi-factor authentication (MFA), an additional security layer that requires more than just a password to verify a user’s identity.
ZERO TRUST OVERLOAD
A key shift in Zero Trust security frameworks is the move from a “trust-by-default” approach to “trust-by-exception.” However, when trust is needed, there must be a reliable method to establish it. Since requests are no longer assumed to be trustworthy, it is crucial to have a process in place to verify their trustworthiness at the time they occur. This verification depends on gaining visibility into the activities surrounding the request. Ideally, implementing point-in-time Zero Trust should be done across identities, devices, data, applications, infrastructure, and networks. These verifications enhance visibility, providing better data for making trust decisions. However, adopting Zero Trust in these six areas increases the number of incidents analysts must manage. This added workload, combined with the existing shortage of skilled professionals, can lead to chronic alert fatigue and the risk of critical alerts being missed. How can we overcome these obstacles?
ZERO TRUST AUTOMATION
Rather than being a single system or tool, Zero Trust is a comprehensive approach involving policies, people, and technology working together to prevent threats. Implementing Zero Trust architecture requires significant effort, particularly for organisations with legacy systems, and while the benefits are substantial, a more innovative approach is often needed. Zero Trust demands continuous verification, authentication, and re-verification of users, which can be difficult to enforce. Although these procedures can be time-consuming, automation offers a solution by accelerating these processes and allowing faster access for authorised users, thereby strengthening the zero-trust framework. In the event of a breach, immediate action is essential, but manual processes, such as attack reporting, can cause delays. Automation can help minimise these delays, enabling security teams to respond more quickly to threats. By automating many manual tasks, companies can enhance the effectiveness of an already robust security model, ensuring quicker and more efficient action against immediate threats.
THE BENEFITS OF ZERO TRUST AUTOMATION
Incorporating automation into Zero Trust architecture offers several key benefits:
- Saves time – Automation can accelerate many manual processes, such as verifying and authenticating users, making the overall procedure faster and more efficient.
- Reduces human error and increases consistency – Manual assessments are prone to errors, particularly under heavy workloads. Automation helps minimise these mistakes and ensures greater consistency.
- Improves user experience – By speeding up processes like authentication, automation reduces the wait time for authorised users, leading to a better overall experience.
- Enables faster response times – Automation and AI allow cyber teams to respond more swiftly to threats. Manual processes, such as breach reporting, can cause delays, but automation helps to eliminate these, enabling quicker action against potential risks.
GET AUTOMATED
If you are looking for affordable, intelligent and effective solutions to automate and digitally transform your business, you’re knocking on the right door. I have over 25 years of experience supporting SMEs with their IT in every possible realm, including workflow automation and implementing an automated Zero Trust model into your IT infrastructure. Let’s get together soon and see how easy it’ll be to get your automation up to speed. Reach out today and look forward to enhanced productivity and efficiency. At the same time, you’ll be keeping all your precious clients happy.