How can you implement zero-trust into your organization? What are the methods you should consider?
In this article, you will find the five-step method to implement Zero Trust. Let’s begin.
What Is Zero-Trust?
Zero Trust is the concept that network access should be granted only at the time it is needed.
A user or device should not be granted permanent access to a resource until they have proven that they do not pose a threat.
You can also consider Zero Trust as an extension of Privileged Access Management. This is where employers monitor and control access to valuable information and systems.
The Five-Step Method to Implement Zero Trust
Step 1: Establish a security framework
A security framework provides a foundation for your company’s policies and procedures. It is along with the thinking and technology that you intend to use.
It is critical when putting together a zero-trust architecture. Your company will then be able to enforce policies based on its needs.
Step 2: Understand the security architecture and begin
Begin by researching your existing network.
It is important to understand how your network is set up so that you can build your new one on top of it. This will be easier and reduce costs.
Step 3: Define security requirements and begin
Based on your research, define the requirements for your new security design.
For example, what services you wish to make accessible to your users. And then, how many users do you want to grant access to these services. Also, how much access should each user have?
This is important because it will help you determine your network’s design and how to allocate resources.
It is also important to determine who will be granted access. For example, some users may need access to certain resources including the company’s data, whereas others shouldn’t have it.
To do that, create a team that will draft policies for who should have access to each resource and for how long.
Step 4: Determine who should have access
Begin by identifying the different users or devices that will require access to your network. Are there any internal users? What about external ones?
After you have identified these users, you can then determine what level of access they are allowed.
In addition, it is also important to determine how they are given access to the network. Are they given physical access or are they given virtual access?
Step 5: Create a policy for access
Now that you have determined who can have access to your network and for how long. You can then begin to create a policy for how each user is granted access.
You can then enforce this policy to ensure that the users do not have unlimited, permanent access.
Your policy should include how you manage the granting and revoking of access. Also, how you manage and monitor the users’ activities.
The last step is to train employees on how to use your zero-trust network. This will help them be more aware of their security.
To Conclude
Zero Trust is the concept that network access should be granted only at the time it is needed. A user or device should not be granted permanent access to a resource until they have proven that they do not pose a threat.
To do this, you must put together a security framework and determine what level of access each user will have.