Zero Trust Architecture

Viewing Data Security Through a New Lens

As mission requirements and security needs continue to evolve, so does the ability to better navigate the issues surrounding access and security of information and systems. In years past, once a new employee signed their NDA, agreed to the terms and conditions of their employment, and initialed the acceptable use policies, they had free reign. Often this would include access to the various innerworkings of the business, confidential information that may not be necessary to their job functions, and other data that need not be shared amongst the entirety of the company. If that last part made you nervous of the potential ramifications regarding security, then you may already be moving toward the Zero Trust Architecture framework.

Zero Trust Architecture is the concept that only those with a specific need be granted access to specific facets of the business. Think of it as a maze where certain rules and policies must be in place and met before you can gain access to the next room or door. To take the exercise a step further, imagine that each employee has a set of keys, the keys only go to the rooms that they need to access instead of an entire floor or suite of rooms. Other rooms remain inaccessible to mitigate the loss of data integrity or confidentiality. Viewing security through the Zero Trust Architecture lens allows companies to put restrictions in place that allow for an increased level of control and visibility.

While it may seem that implementing a Zero Trust Architecture could be extensive, in reality it uses, pivots, and builds upon the current foundation of the existing  security controls. A properly executed Zero Trust Architecture approach can enable organizations to implement Zero Trust principles without disrupting the Mission. To provide another visual example, think of a large moving box, this represents the existing perimeter system. Once you add the dividers for cups or glasses you have a fortified framework for security. The Zero Trust Architecture are those dividers. More importantly, Zero Trust principles are applicable to more than in-person networks. They can be applied to a remote workforce and public cloud networks as well.

Be advised, utilizing a Zero Trust framework will highlight areas of vulnerability and potential holes, but we’d rather those be discovered in the adoption of a more refined system than by exploitation. This verify first, trust second approach to security helps to contain potential breaches from becoming system wide without resistance. Zero Trust Architecture is the most secure way to protect your data both inside and outside your organization.

If you’re seeking more information on the Zero Trust Architecture strategy, implementation, and maintenance, let’s have a conversation. At SkyePoint Decisions, we excel in designing and implementing the end-to-end cybersecurity approach to secure your most precious business processes.