What to Avoid When Establishing Zero Trust Security

The cybersecurity landscape is changing at a breakneck pace, and Zero Trust security is a big part of the overall transformative improvement. Its approach is to continuously verify every connection attempt before granting resource access rather than the traditional perimeter-based security models.

56% of global organizations say adopting Zero Trust is a “Top” or “High” priority.

While Zero Trust offers significant security advantages, the transition process presents several potential pitfalls. Running afoul of these can significantly harm a company’s security efforts.

Let’s examine these common roadblocks and offer guidance on navigating a successful Zero Trust security policy.

What is Zero Trust in simple terms?

Here in the IT Support LA blog pages, we have likened network security to a castle with all its fortifications, but Zero Trust throws out the simple old periphery-based ‘castle and moat’ security model where everyone inside the network perimeter is trusted and only those outside are held to scrutiny.

Trust but Verify? NO – Verify, THEN Trust.

Zero Trust assumes everyone and everything is a potential threat until proven otherwise. This is true even for users already inside the network. This may sound extreme, but it enforces a rigorous ‘verify first, access later. approach.

What are the three principles of Zero Trust?

Least Privilege: Users only get access to the specific resources they need to do their jobs, no more.

Always Verify: Authentication doesn't happen once. It's an ongoing process. Users and devices are constantly re-evaluated for access rights.

Risk Mitigation Through Micro-Segmentation: Your IT Services team will divide the network into smaller segments. This limits the damage if a breach occurs.

Typical Zero Trust Adoption Errors

Zero Trust isn't just a plug-and-play you can simply buy, take out of the box, and deploy. Care must be taken to implement it, but it’s worth it. Here are some missteps you must not take:

Do NOT treat Zero Trust as a Product, But as a Strategy

Some purveyors of Zero Trust might make it sound like a product they can sell you. Don't be fooled! It is a security philosophy that requires a cultural shift within your organization.

A Zero Trust strategy requires the use of many approaches and tools, include things like multi-factor authentication (MFA) and advanced threat detection and response.

Do NOT Focus Only on Technical Controls

While technology does play a crucial role in Zero Trust, its success hinges on people and processes too. Your employees will need to be trained on the new security culture and the updated access control policies. The human element is an important one in any sound security strategy.

Do NOT Overcomplicate the Process

For it to work, the steps to Zero Trust must be calculated and measured. Do NOT try to tackle everything at once, because that can be overwhelming, and smaller companies may give up. Start with a pilot program focusing on critical areas. Then, gradually expand your Zero Trust deployment bit by bit.

Do NOT Neglect User Experience

Don’t just throw this at your staff – that can create excessive hurdles for legitimate users. Adopting controls like MFA can backfire if employees aren’t involved. Find the right balance between security and a smooth user experience. Use change management to help ease the transition process.

Do NOT Skip the Inventory

How can you secure what you don't know exists? Take stock and catalogue all your devices, users, and applications before deploying Zero Trust. This helps identify potential access risks. It also provides a roadmap for prioritizing your efforts.

Do NOT Forget About your Legacy Systems

While conscientiously implementing Zero Trust, you still need to rely on your older security systems. Do NOT leave yourself unprotected during your Zero Trust transition. Integrate your legacy systems into your security framework or consider secure migration plans. Forgotten legacy systems can lead to data breaches that impact your entire network.

Do NOT Overlook Third-Party Access

Third-party vendors can be your weakest security point. Clearly define access controls and check their activity within your network. Set time-limited access as appropriate.

DO Remember That Zero Trust is a Journey

Do NOT be in a hurry, like The White Rabbit in Alice in Wonderland, who prophetically stated, "The hurrier I go, the behinder I get." Building a robust Zero Trust environment takes time, effort, and care.

Here's how to stay on track:

Set Realistic Goals: Be patient - don't expect overnight success. Define achievable milestones and celebrate progress along the way.

Establish Continuous Monitoring: Security threats are constantly evolving, and so must you. Continuously watch your Zero Trust system and adjust your strategies as needed.

Employee Training: Empower your employees as active participants in your Zero Trust journey. Regular security awareness training is vital.

Reap the Rewards of a Secure Future

If you avoid these common mistakes and adopt a strategic approach, you enable your business to leverage the big advantages of Zero Trust security. Here's what you can expect:

Data Protection Enhancement: Zero Trust minimizes the damage from a potential breach. It does this by limiting access to sensitive data.

Improved User Experience: Streamlined access controls create a smoother experience for authorized users.

Increased Compliance: Zero Trust aligns with many industry regulations and compliance standards.

If you are ready to take the first step with Zero Trust security, then equip yourself with knowledge, plan your approach, and avoid these common pitfalls. This will enable you to transform your security posture and build a more resilient business in the face of evolving cyber threats.

This Cybersecurity strategy provides for better peace of mind.