7 Zero Trust Strategies from Security Leaders
In today’s rapidly advancing technological landscape, it is crucial to protect sensitive information from unauthorized access. Data breaches can result in significant financial losses, as evidenced by the Cost of a Data Breach Report 2020, which revealed an average global cost of $3.86 million per breach. To combat this growing threat, security leaders have adopted the Zero Trust model and developed strategies to ensure comprehensive security measures. In this article, we will explore seven essential Zero Trust strategies recommended by security leaders.
1. Use identities to control access
To implement a robust Zero Trust approach, it is essential to validate the identities of individuals, services, and IoT devices attempting to connect to your systems. Ensure that access privileges are assigned based on individual identity characteristics and tailor them accordingly.
2. Elevate authentication
In addition to identity validation, incorporating multifactor authentication strengthens your company’s security status. Continuous authentication verifies user identities using factors such as IP address, behavioral patterns, or other contextual information.
3. Incorporate passwordless authentication 
Replace traditional passwords with passwordless authentication methods that utilize two or more verification factors. Generate a public and private key for each registered device and consider options like PIN, fingerprint, facial recognition, or iris scanning for private key authentication.
4. Segment your corporate network
Enhance visibility and prevent unauthorized access by segmenting your corporate network. This approach ensures that outsiders cannot freely move within your network, improving overall security.
5. Secure your devices 
Enforce consistent security policies across all devices, regardless of whether they are corporate or personally owned. Zero Trust principles apply to all devices, ensuring that only reliable and secure devices gain access to your systems.
6. Segment your applications
Properly manage application permissions by segmenting your applications. Monitor user actions for abnormal behavior, enforce restrictions, and validate the security of configuration options to prevent unauthorized access and potential security breaches.
7. Define roles and access controls 
While managing roles may initially seem beneficial, it’s crucial to carefully consider the number of roles created. Excessive roles can lead to complications and outdated accounts. Define and manage roles and access controls effectively to maintain a streamlined and secure authorization process.
Adopting the Zero Trust model is a journey, and organizations can choose different entry points based on their specific needs. Whether starting with access and identity management or network segmentation, successful implementation of these strategies will enhance your organization’s data security. Determine the best approach for your company and take the necessary steps to protect your valuable information.
To ensure comprehensive data security and leverage the power of the Zero Trust model, consider partnering with the Microsoft Cloud Security Services provided by Team Venti. Our experienced team can help you implement and manage advanced security solutions tailored to your organization’s unique requirements.
Contact us today to learn more about how our Microsoft Cloud Security Services can strengthen your data protection efforts and safeguard your business against evolving cyber threats.
