Organizations today have hybrid environments, mobile users, and cloud apps.
The Zero Trust model helps secure this dynamic landscape by continuously validating
users and devices.
Zero Trust Principles
Principle Description Example
Verify
explicitly Validate every access attempt using
multiple data points. Check user identity, device health,
and location before login.
Use least
privilege
access Limit user access to only what’s
required, using JIT (Just-In-Time) or JEA
(Just-Enough-Access). An admin gets elevated privileges
only for 30 minutes to perform a
specific task.
Assume
breach Design systems as though they are
already compromised. Use segmentation, encryption,
and analytics to detect and
contain threats.
Deploying Zero Trust
Zero Trust applies across six pillars:
1. Identity.
2. Endpoints.
3. Data.
4. Applications.
5. Infrastructure.
6. Network.
Each pillar both provides signals and is protected by Zero Trust policies.
Example Scenario:
A salesperson uses their laptop (endpoint) to access CRM data (app/data). The system
checks their Entra ID credentials, device compliance, and location before granting access.
Zero Trust Architecture
Central Policy Engine: Makes access decisions dynamically.
Identity and Access Management: Verifies users and devices explicitly using risk
signals.
Information Protection: Enforces access control and data encryption in real-time.
SIEM and XDR Integration: Combines threat detection, alerts, and automated
response.
Goal: Ensure only the right people access the right resources, at the right time, from secure
devices.