How to Achieve Zero Trust in Company Networks: A Complete Guide

Zero Trust is a security model that reimagines how we protect networks against threats. Instead of assuming that everything inside your network is safe, Zero Trust encourages you to verify every access request. 

In other words, you are to trust no one and nothing, whether inside or outside the network perimeter. As well as verifying always and continuously, the Zero Trust model also urges network users to ‘assume breach’, meaning to assume that cyber-attacks will happen, rather than that they will happen.

The Zero Trust approach aligns perfectly with the complex, hybrid, and ever-evolving nature of modern company networks.

Key components of Zero Trust architecture

Identity and access management (IAM)

Every user needs a unique identity, whether they are an employee, contractor, or partner. We authenticate these identities rigorously before granting access to our resources. Think of IAM as a digital checkpoint every interaction has to pass through. 

For example, when engineers want to access the software repository, they use a secure login, often paired with multi-factor authentication (MFA). It's like adding a second lock on the door, such as a one-time code, fingerprint scan, or even facial recognition. This double-check ensures they're really who they claim to be.

Device security

We don't just verify the user; we also assess the device's legitimacy. Let's say an employee tries to connect from a personal laptop. Your system checks if this device meets security standards:

• Is it running the latest antivirus software? 
• Are firewalls enabled? 

If anything's amiss, access is denied or limited until the device complies. It's about ensuring the employee isn't connecting through an unsecured gateway. You may also employ network segmentation as part of your strategy. 

Segmentation separates sensitive data into secure zones. In a healthcare organization, patient records might be segregated from administrative data. If a breach occurs in one zone, the rest of the network remains safe.

Monitoring and analytics

Threats can come from anywhere, so you need eyes everywhere, watching every digital move, detecting anomalies, and raising alarms. Suppose your system notices unusual activity, like someone downloading vast amounts of data during odd hours. It flags this behavior and alerts us immediately. 

Automated systems powered by machine learning are invaluable here, continuously analyzing patterns and spotting outliers before they become threats. 

Data encryption helps too. Both data at rest and data in transit need protection. Whether files are stored on local servers or sent across the internet, they must remain confidential. Picture this as your data wrapped in layers of encryption; it's locked tight, even if someone tries to intercept it. Only authorized parties with the correct keys can ever decrypt and access the information.

Secure access service edge (SASE)

SASE enhances your architecture. The technology combines network security functions with wide area network capabilities. It provides secure access regardless of a user's location. Employees can work on the go, seamlessly connecting to the corporate network while SASE ensures their data is protected. 

These components, when integrated, form a robust Zero Trust architecture. It transforms how we perceive and manage network security, leaving no stone unturned in protecting our digital environments.

Networking

Segmentation separates sensitive data into secure zones. In a healthcare organization, patient records might be segregated from administrative data. If a breach occurs in one zone, the rest of the network remains safe.

Micro-segmentation switches things up even more. Think of each micro-segment as a secure zone, much like rooms in a house, each with its own lock and key. Take a healthcare network, for example. You might separate patient data from administrative tasks. This way, if someone hacks into the admin system, they can't automatically view sensitive patient records.

Micro-segmentation pairs beautifully with network monitoring and analytics. To keep an eye on what's happening across these zones, you need sharp, responsive tools that offer real-time insights. 

Imagine you're managing a vast office complex. You'd install security cameras to watch every corner. In the digital realm, monitoring tools serve the same purpose. If an employee in finance starts accessing enormous volumes of data in the middle of the night, that's a red flag. Your system should alert you immediately.

Advanced analytics goes hand-in-hand with monitoring. It's about teaching your systems to learn what's normal and what's not. Much like a seasoned store detective spotting fishy behavior, these systems use historical data to discern patterns, including those that suggest potential breaches before they fully unfold. For instance, if there's a sudden spike in attempted logins from overseas, our analytics tools should raise a red alert.

Bringing in Security Information and Event Management (SIEM) systems elevates your monitoring. These systems collect data from various sources, analyze the information, and give us a comprehensive view of our network's health. 

Integrating SIEM with your micro-segmented architecture ensures that you have all the pieces of the puzzle in one place. It's like having a central command center where all your security feeds converge, allowing you to respond swiftly and effectively to any potential threats.

Identity and Access Management (IAM)

Every user, whether an employee, contractor, or partner, needs a unique identity. We authenticate these identities rigorously before granting access to our resources. Think of IAM as a digital checkpoint every interaction has to pass through. 

For example, when an engineer wants to access the software repository, they use a secure login, often paired with multi-factor authentication (MFA). It's like adding a second lock on the door, such as a one-time code, fingerprint scan, or even facial recognition. This double-check ensures they're really who they claim to be.

When building a Zero Trust environment, robust Identity and Access Management (IAM) is essential. Imagine a scenario where an engineer needs access to your software repository. Instead of relying solely on a password, they use multi-factor authentication. 

This could involve entering a one-time code sent to their phone or even using biometric verification like a fingerprint or facial recognition. It's like double-locking a door, ensuring only the rightful person gets through.

You should also focus on the legitimacy of devices, not just the users. Say an employee wants to access sensitive company data from their personal laptop. Before granting access, your system evaluates if this device meets your security benchmarks:

• Is the device running updated antivirus software? 
• Are the firewalls active? 

If anything is amiss, access is either denied or restricted until the device complies. This ensures no one enters through an unsecured gateway.

You must also employ the principle of least privilege. Users only have access to the resources essential for their roles. This limits the potential damage if their credentials are compromised. 

IAM also plays a role in adapting your security posture based on risk assessments. If a user logs in from an unusual location or device, you can trigger additional verification processes. Think of this as constantly checking that everyone is still who they say they are. It’s about vigilance, not just at the point of entry, but throughout the session.

Integrating IAM with other security tools is vital. For example, you can leverage Secure Access Service Edge (SASE) to provide secure access regardless of where users are located. This keeps them protected whether they're working from a bustling café or their home office.

Throughout this process, you must manage data effectively. Ensure it’s encrypted both at rest and in transit. So, when an employee sends an email or stores files in the cloud, encryption acts as a locked box, guarding it against prying eyes. Whether on a local server or across the internet, only those with the right key can access the data.

Just-in-Time access

To truly embrace Zero Trust, you must move beyond standing privileged accounts that remain vulnerable, even when not in use. That's where just-in-time access steps in. 

Just-in-time access offers a more secure way to manage privileged access by granting temporary permissions exactly when they're needed and revoking them as soon as the task is done. This method reduces the risk that comes with longstanding permissions that can be easily exploited if breached.

Picture an IT professional tasked with updating software across the network. Instead of using a permanent admin account that gives them unfettered access, they request elevated privileges for that specific task. 

Once the approval is granted, they receive just the right amount of access to perform their duties. As soon as they finish, these permissions disappear. It's like borrowing a key to a secure room, using it for a specific purpose, and returning it promptly before any security risk emerges.

This approach dramatically reduces the attack surface. Hackers have fewer opportunities to exploit standing accounts since there are none. Just-in-time access ensures that privileges align perfectly with immediate needs, leaving no room for excess rights that could be misused. 

Whether it’s an IT pro rolling out updates or a business user stepping in for a colleague, they receive permissions tailored to specific tasks and not a bit more.

Compliance thrives under this model too. With just-in-time access, you can easily meet regulatory requirements by showing auditors that access is granted based on well-defined business needs. It simplifies enforcing the principle of least privilege and separating duties, as you can demonstrate how permissions are tightly controlled and monitored.

Operational efficiency doesn't suffer. Thanks to automation, the process of requesting and granting access is fluid. Users receive the permissions they need without unnecessary delays or roadblocks. 

An effective just-in-time solution empowers staff to get their jobs done swiftly while maintaining strict security protocols. It's like having a concierge service for access management, efficiently balancing speed with security.

The beauty of this system is its adaptability. For instance, if an employee needs access outside their regular scope due to unforeseen circumstances, just-in-time access can accommodate these needs without permanently altering their access level. This flexibility, combined with robust security measures, makes it a cornerstone of a reliable Zero Trust strategy.

Encryption

It's essential for keeping data confidential, whether at rest or in transit. Let's imagine a scenario where a sales team sends sensitive documents to a client. Without encryption, anyone intercepting the communication could access its contents. 

However, with robust encryption protocols, even if someone were to intercept the data, they’d only see a jumble of meaningless characters. It’s akin to sending secret messages locked in a digital vault that only authorized parties can open with the right key.

Encryption at rest is equally important. Consider files stored on a company’s servers or at a cloud service provider. These should be encrypted to ensure that even if someone gains unauthorized access, they cannot read the data without the proper decryption key. 

You must also focus on end-to-end encryption, particularly when dealing with communications such as emails or instant messaging. This ensures that only the communicating users can read the messages, not even the providers of the communication service. 

For instance, if an employee sends an email with sensitive company strategies, the end-to-end encryption ensures that only the intended recipient can read the message, keeping prying eyes at bay.

Encryption keys are a topic of their own. Managing them securely is vital. If a key falls into the wrong hands, it could unravel the whole security fabric. Therefore, you must implement strict key management policies, ensuring that keys are regularly rotated and securely stored.

Encryption in a Zero Trust model enhances security without hindering usability. Employees continue their work, from sending emails to accessing cloud-based documents, without cumbersome processes. 

Meanwhile, your encryption safeguards ensure that all data remains confidential and secure. Integrating these encryption practices aligns perfectly with Zero Trust principles and protects your data from evolving threats.

Virtual Private Network (VPN)

While VPNs aren’t a magic bullet on their own, they still play a valuable role in this robust security model. At its core, a VPN creates an encrypted tunnel between the user's device and the destination network. This means that even if someone intercepts the data being transferred, they can't decipher the contents. 

Imagine an employee working from a coffee shop, logging into the corporate network. Without a VPN, their data could be exposed to prying eyes. But with it, their connection is secure, like sending a locked briefcase that only the company's server can open.

However, in a Zero Trust environment, relying solely on VPNs isn’t enough. You must ensure that once inside the network, the VPN user still faces rigorous checks. It's like inviting someone into a secure building; even if they have a pass, they must still go through security screenings. Every access attempt within the network requires authentication, often using multi-factor methods, to confirm the user's identity continuously.

Combining VPNs with micro-segmentation also enhances security. Imagine an employee in the finance department using a VPN to access financial systems. Through micro-segmentation, they're restricted to only those systems necessary for their job, without free reign over the entire network.

Monitoring is crucial too. You may use analytics tools to observe VPN traffic for any suspicious activity. Suppose an employee’s VPN connection suddenly starts downloading large volumes of data at unusual times. A good monitoring tool would flag this anomaly, allowing you to investigate promptly.

Finally, a VPN setup must incorporate Secure Access Service Edge (SASE) to enhance security. SASE combines the traditional VPN capabilities with cloud-based security functions, providing secure access regardless of where the employee is. 

Whether they’re at home or traveling abroad, their connection remains protected. Think of SASE as a personal bodyguard, shielding them from threats while they navigate different networks.

By integrating VPNs thoughtfully within a Zero Trust framework, you ensure they act as one more layer of defense rather than the single point of security, effectively fitting into the broader Zero Trust architecture.

How to implement Zero Trust in different environments

Data centers

Implementing Zero Trust in data centers involves a strategic mix of stringent access controls, continuous monitoring, and robust segmentation. You start with the basics: strict identity and access management. 

Every individual, whether an IT engineer or a contractor, needs verified credentials to get in. For instance, when a technician needs to perform maintenance on the servers, they don’t just waltz in with a badge. They must authenticate their identity using multi-factor authentication. This might include a one-time code sent to their phone, ensuring they're indeed who they claim to be.

In the data center environment, micro-segmentation is also an essential tool. Imagine you have sections dedicated to different operations like storage, network management, and applications. You create virtual walls between these areas. 

So, if a vulnerability is exploited in one segment, it doesn't cascade across the entire center. It’s like having separate locked compartments in a warehouse; a breach in one doesn’t compromise the others. For example, if a database storing customer information is compromised, the attacker won't automatically gain access to the application servers because they're isolated by these virtual barriers.

Monitoring plays a pivotal role here, too. As does encryption and physical security of the data center. Security is not just about digital protection. The environment itself needs robust defenses. This includes biometric scanning for entry, surveillance cameras, and secure locks. 

Imagine approaching a secure facility where every step is monitored, from the perimeter to the core. Each layer bolsters the center's defenses, making unauthorized entry extremely difficult. By doing this, you ensure that both digital and physical aspects are equally secured, aligning perfectly with Zero Trust principles.

Office environments

In an office environment, embracing Zero Trust requires a shift in mindset. You shouldn’t assume that being within the office network perimeters equates to being secure. Instead, you apply the principle of "never trust, always verify" at every level of access.

Let's talk about access control. When an employee wants to enter a secure area within your office network, they go through rigorous authentication. So, a finance manager accessing financial reports doesn’t just punch in their password. They use multi-factor authentication, like a code sent to their phone, to confirm it's really them. This step goes beyond mere passwords, adding an extra layer of assurance that helps keep the bad actors at bay.

Device security is another focus area. Just because a device is within your office doesn't mean it's automatically trusted. If an employee connects their personal laptop to our network, it must first meet your security standards:

• Is the antivirus up-to-date? 
• Is the firewall enabled? 

If something looks off, access is restricted. This check ensures that no weak spots are exploited, even when devices are physically present in the office.

Network segmentation plays a critical role too. I divide the office network into isolated segments. Picture the marketing team’s workspace as separate from the HR department's. In this setup, if someone breaches one segment, they can't easily jump to another. It's like having different rooms in a house, each with its own lock. Even if a key is lost, only one section is at risk.

Monitoring within the office environment is also vital. You can use analytics to spot any unusual activity. Suppose someone accesses sensitive data late at night. Your system flags this behavior, triggering an immediate security alert. With continuous monitoring, you don't just react to threats; you preempt them. 

Even within the office, encryption is crucial. Whether data is stored locally on servers or being transmitted internally, it's encrypted. This means even if someone manages to access the data, they won't be able to make sense of it without the proper keys. It's like locking important documents in a secure briefcase that only a few can unlock.

By applying these Zero Trust principles, you ensure that your office remains secure. No matter who or what tries to access your network, everything undergoes the same scrutiny. This approach makes your office environment not just a place of collaboration but a fortress against potential breaches.

How to develop Zero Trust policies 

Understand what you need to protect

Start with a clear understanding that every rule you implement is a direct reflection of your organization's specific needs and threats. It's not a one-size-fits-all situation. Instead, it's like tailoring a suit—it needs to fit perfectly. 

Identify critical assets and data within your company. For example, consider a healthcare organization. Patient records and billing information would be at the top of my list. These assets require the most stringent security measures, which means your policies are crafted to safeguard them with the utmost priority.

Map out who needs access to what and why

Now you focus on user roles and access levels. It's essential to map out who needs access to what, and why. Let's say you are in charge of a retail company. 

Ensure that a store manager has access to sales data but not to the company's financial forecasts, which might be reserved for top executives. This principle of least privilege is non-negotiable in a Zero Trust setting. It ensures each user gets just the right level of access to perform their duties and nothing more.

Consider the security features your different devices need 

Consider the devices used across your network. If an employee uses a personal smartphone to check work emails, you need policies that enforce security measures on that device:

• Is it running the latest software updates? 
• Does it have an active firewall? 

For instance, if an employee’s device doesn't meet your security requirements, the policy might restrict their access until they comply. This approach is crucial in preventing vulnerabilities from being introduced into your network through unsecured devices.

Set protocols that limit access between different segments of your network

Network segmentation also factors into policy development. You must set protocols that limit access between different segments of your network. In a tech company environment, for instance, you separate the development team's workstations from the customer support department's systems. 

A policy might dictate that only certain personnel can bridge that gap, ensuring that even if one part of the network is compromised, the attackers can't freely move to another section.

Ongoing monitoring and real-time analytics are another pillar of my Zero Trust policies. For example, if an employee attempts to download sensitive data from an unusual location, the system flags it immediately, triggering additional verification processes. Ensure your policies reflect the need for this level of vigilance, requiring regular reviews and updates based on the latest threat intelligence.

Use of strong encryption standards

End-to-end encryption is a crucial aspect of policy, too. Whether for emails, file transfers, or data storage, make sure policies mandate the use of strong encryption standards. 

If employees are sending sensitive documents or accessing secure databases, your policies require those communications to be encrypted. This way, even if the data is intercepted, it's just a meaningless jumble without the decryption key.

Integrate just-in-time access into our policies

This ensures that elevated permissions are granted only when necessary and revoked immediately after. Imagine an IT technician requested temporary admin access to troubleshoot a server issue. 

Your policy must provide this access for the duration of the task and nothing more. This reduces the risk posed by unmanaged standing privileges and is a cornerstone of maintaining a secure environment.

Developing Zero Trust policies is about understanding the nuances of your organization's operations and aligning security measures accordingly. It's a meticulous but rewarding process that fortifies your defenses, making you ready for any potential threats.

How to ensure secure data access

Classify and label your data

This is crucial. It’s like organizing a library: unless you know what each book contains, you can't protect them properly. Use automated tools to scan your digital content for sensitive information and tag it based on its sensitivity. 

For example, you might classify financial reports as "highly confidential," ensuring they’re handled with extra care. Automated classification scales well across the entire data estate, but sometimes manual intervention is necessary. 

For instance, when working with curated datasets for analytics, a knowledgeable team member might be best suited to establish the correct classification and sensitivity label.

Apply encryption and access control

Suppose you have client contracts stored in your system. With the right sensitivity labels, these documents are encrypted automatically, both at rest and in transit. 

When your employees send these documents via email, the sensitivity labels also apply content markings to the emails. These markings act as constant reminders for recipients about the document's importance and confidentiality, promoting awareness and compliance.

Control access to all your data

Consider your marketing team needing access to data insights housed on a team SharePoint site. With container sensitivity labels, you can implement conditional access policies. Only users within the approved group can access this site. 

This control extends beyond mere access authorization; it encompasses sharing restrictions too. It’s like giving them a key to a special room, but under strict rules about who can come in with them and what they can share.

To prevent data leakage, rely on Data Loss Prevention (DLP) mechanisms. Imagine your sales team using Microsoft Teams to collaborate on a project. DLP policies can stop them from inadvertently sharing sensitive client information outside the organization. 

If someone tries to attach a confidential file to an email headed for a competitor, the system flags it, blocking the message and alerting us. It’s like setting up an invisible barrier that ensures your data doesn’t slip through cracks, intentionally or otherwise.

Manage insider risk

This goes beyond monitoring external threats by focusing internally. For example, if an employee suddenly accesses large volumes of data that are unrelated to their role, our systems detect this anomaly. 

Insider Risk Management tools analyze these behaviors, helping us address potential threats from within. It’s akin to having a sensor that lights up when an unusual pattern appears, allowing you to act swiftly before any damage is done. By following these steps, you ensure your data access policies are continually aligned with Zero Trust principles, offering robust protection at every turn.

How Netmaker Helps Your Business Achieve Zero Trust

Netmaker offers powerful solutions for implementing Zero Trust principles by facilitating secure and efficient virtual overlay networks. With features like the Egress Gateway, Netmaker enables clients to access external networks securely, ensuring that even if a breach occurs, network segmentation limits the threat. 

This aligns with the Zero Trust principle of micro-segmentation, creating isolated zones within the network to prevent lateral movement by potential attackers. Moreover, Netmaker’s integration capabilities, such as OAuth support, enhance identity and access management, ensuring that every user and device is rigorously authenticated before accessing network resources.

Additionally, Netmaker's ability to create site-to-site mesh VPNs without requiring software installation on every device simplifies the implementation of secure connections across multiple locations. This feature is particularly beneficial for organizations with hybrid or multi-cloud environments, as it maintains secure, consistent connections while respecting the least privilege access principle by controlling which segments of the network each user or device can access.

Sign up here to get started with deploying Netmaker for a robust Zero Trust architecture.