There have been significant changes affecting the network perimeter. No longer definable by traditional boundaries within company headquarters, IT security teams need new ways to secure company assets while providing access to employees. Many are using zero trust security to shore up cyber security. There are many factors that have led to this trend:

• The increased use of cloud solutions has created new network vulnerabilities, while traditional data center backhauling for security screenings causes bottlenecks and performance issues.
• The shift to remote and hybrid work models means that users need access to resources with consistent performance and security protocols no matter where they are working.
• The increase in the Internet of Things (IoT) has significantly affected cyber security risk, introducing a multiplication of endpoints.

These, combined with other factors, have created a situation in which the network perimeter has all but disappeared. Network security teams must take a new approach.

The Rise of Zero Trust Security

The essential premise of zero trust security is that all users and devices are considered a threat unless proven otherwise. The approach combines various technologies, including multi-factor authentication, next-generation firewall, secure web gateway, and software-defined wide area networking (SD-WAN) to provide secure access to verified users and devices.

It’s important to note that zero trust is not a solution that is purchased off the shelf. It is a mindset, an approach to cyber security that can include a varying combination of tools and policies. Each company will adopt a unique set of practices that allows them to achieve a zero trust security strategy. In addition, zero trust is not something you will likely ever check off your to-do list. It is more of a journey, similar to digital transformation strategies, in that they are never quite complete. If you adopt a zero trust security approach, you will be continually working to improve it.

The Challenge

While many companies are eager to put zero trust policies in place, some are finding that there are many obstacles to pursuing it. For instance, some IT teams may find that implementation requires a major investment in upgrades. For others, it may be simply turning on features in an existing solution. In some situations, pursuing zero trust may require collaboration from vendors and other business partners. It can be challenging to get all of the right pieces in place.

The Platform Approach

As companies take a platform approach to solving many of their IT challenges, it becomes easier to select one that comes equipped with zero trust technology. With some integration and automation already incorporated, zero trust is easy to implement, even with the talent shortages plaguing many IT security teams. One major benefit of the platform approach is the reduced burden on your IT team. Changes to your cyber security risk may be demanding a zero trust security approach. Contact us at eXemplify to discuss the specific challenges you’re encountering. We can assist you in determining whether your existing solutions can support zero trust or if there are additional tools required.