By Dilip Panjwani
The Zero Trust approach to security is centred on the concept of ‘least privilege’ — granting the minimal level of access required for an individual user. Across verticals, an increasing number of organisations are looking to implement Zero Trust models to safeguard their data, applications and networks amidst an ever-evolving threat landscape. This is reflected in the growth projections for the global Zero Trust security market – with an estimated value of $24.84 billion in 2022, it is expected to grow at a CAGR of 16.6% from 2023 to 2030.
Key challenges with implementation
Zero Trust requires each user to have personalised rules for access and authentication, increasing the complexity for IT teams by making it incumbent on them to design and deploy multiple sets of policies. The reliance on identity management solutions such as multi-factor authentication also requires attention.
Securing all devices connected to the network is another key challenge – necessitating implementation of rigorous endpoint security measures. Effective implementation of machine learning and analytics, to detect malicious activity, also requires additional time and resources.
Getting started with Zero Trust
An organisation’s shift towards a Zero Trust approach should begin with an assessment of its existing security infrastructure to identify potential vulnerabilities, explore measures to strengthen user authentication processes, and ensure robust policies to regulate access to business systems and data. Investments in data analytics solutions to monitor user activity for anomalous patterns should also be examined at this stage.
Additionally, three key factors must be considered while instituting Zero Trust.
Implementing digital trust: This comprises implementation of multi-factor authentication for verification, and a regular recertification process for auditing privilege access ensures safeguarding of sensitive data.
Assuming breach in applications: It is a Zero Trust principle to assume a breach in the environment, and to regularly perform vulnerability assessment and penetration testing on applications for risk mitigation.
Device management: A Zero Trust model requires monitoring of any device that accesses the network and rigorous enforcement of authentication protocols.
Amidst the rapid technological evolution and disruptions that lie ahead, a security model that effectively adapts to the complexity of modern business operations and empowers enterprises to take a proactive approach to security, has become a critical requirement. In the long-term, a Zero Trust approach holds immense potential to revolutionise the security posture of organisations and usher in a bold new era of cyber resilience.
The writer is global head of cybersecurity practice and CoE, LTIMindtree