Hackers and data thieves are getting more sophisticated every day, and companies are vulnerable to their attacks because almost all companies use the cloud to store valuable information. This is why many companies implement the Zero Trust Network to block out attacks and safeguard their technology from getting compromised.
So what is Zero Trust? As the name suggests, it’s a principle where security measures are so strict; it doesn’t trust anybody. The system is instructed not to let anyone through – to gain access to the network; each user must undergo a stringent identity verification process.
Typical Scenarios of Zero Trust Environments
A lot of companies in the information technology field use the Zero Trust approach, and for obvious reasons. If you work for a tech company, you may have encountered the Single Sign-in Method. One of the most common forms of Zero Trust implementation is Single Sign-in – when a user has to sign in and verify their identity each time they access data on the network.
With normal security protocols, users sign in when they first access the company network. Once there, a person stays signed in throughout the entire time, and they can choose to save their credentials, so they don’t have to keep typing in their credentials each time they want to log in.
With Zero Trust, you need to undergo identity verification each time you log in. Many companies complement the Single Sign-in method with multi-factor authentication. This means that each time you log in, the system sends a code to either your email, phone, or an app created by the company. The code usually expires in 1-2 minutes, so you have to provide the right code within the time limit, or your account will be locked out.
Another typical scenario where Zero Trust is implemented is the Least Privilege Access method. In this method, users have a variety of permission restrictions. For example, a person working in Human Resources can only access employee files and other data required for them to do their jobs properly.
Security Difficulties with Zero Trust Networks
The Zero Trust network, while effective in protecting intellectual property, does have its weak points. One of the biggest problems with Zero Trust is that it takes a lot of effort to implement it. If you’re switching from a less secure system, you have to completely change company processes and policies to accommodate this new protocol. Likewise, you would need to train your employees under the new system and hire more people to monitor the Zero Trust network. You also need to spend a lot of time segmenting your network and creating user restrictions for employees, clients, customers, and other people.
Because the system is so secure, some degree of technical sophistication is required. One of the common complaints regarding Zero Trust is that the system is so secure that sometimes employees get locked out of their accounts simply because they make a mistake or don’t input the code fast enough. For employees, it does feel like overkill, having to go through a long verification process just to view a single document.
Mainstream Solutions To Zero Trust Difficulties
While the Zero Trust system does have its flaws, there are ways to circumvent the difficulties that it brings:
Multiple Security Levels
Just because you have Zero Trust implemented in your company doesn’t mean that all data should be under it. If you want to switch to a Zero Trust approach, first identify what needs the most protection. You can enact several layers of security in your company. Highly sensitive data can be protected by your Zero Trust network, while data that is not highly sensitive can be other some other security protocol to prevent interfering with your employees’ productivity.
Continuously Adjust Protocols
Zero Trust Principle integration takes a while, and there’s no single formula that works for everyone. Once the security protocol is in place, make sure to collect data on it and monitor its progress. Make changes regularly – as stated earlier, hackers and data thieves are extremely sophisticated, and what is secure now might be vulnerable next week. Continue updating and upgrading the system until you get the formula that’s just right for your company.