Zero Trust Architecture

Zero Trust Architecture is a security framework that operates on the principle of "never trust, always verify." It assumes that no user, device, or network — whether inside or outside the organization’s traditional network perimeter — should be trusted by default. Instead, every access request must be authenticated, authorized, and continuously validated before access is granted.

The core tenets of Zero Trust Architecture include:

Verify explicitly: All access requests are authenticated and authorized based on all available data points, including user identity, location, device health, and the sensitivity of the data being accessed.

Use least privilege access: Users are granted the minimum level of access necessary to perform their jobs. This limits the potential for lateral movement and reduces the impact of a compromised account.

Assume breach: The network is always considered to be at risk. All traffic is inspected and logged, and systems are designed to contain and minimize the damage of a potential breach. This model shifts the focus from securing the perimeter to securing individual resources and data. It ensures that even if an attacker gains a foothold inside the network, their ability to move around and access sensitive information is severely limited.