Zero-trust and Architecture

Question 1

Concept of Zero Trust

Answer 1

■ Modern approach to cybersecurity due to sophisticated threats
● De-perimeterization
○ Protect systems and data using encryption, secure protocols, and host-based protection
○ Allows cost reduction, global business transactions, and increased agility
○ Resulted from cloud migration, remote work, mobile tech, wireless networks, outsourcing

Question 2

Zero Trust Principles

Answer 2

■ Trust nothing, verify everything
■ Verify every device, user, and transaction regardless of origin
■ Addresses threats from inside and outside networks

Question 3

Zero Trust Architecture: Control Plane

Answer 3

■ Control Plane
● Defines, manages, and enforces access policies
● Elements:
○ Adaptive Identity
■ Real-time validation based on behavior, device, and location
○ Threat Scope Reduction
■ Limiting user access to minimize attack surface
○ Policy-driven Access Control
■ Enforcing access based on roles and responsibilities
○ Secured Zones
■ Isolated environments for sensitive data access

Question 4

Zero Trust Architecture: Data Plane

Answer 4

● Ensures execution of policies
● Components
○ Subject System
■ Individual or entity seeking access
○ Policy Engine
■ Cross-references access requests with predefined policies
○ Policy Administrator
■ Establishes and manages access policies
○ Policy Enforcement Point
■ Executes access decisions

Question 5

Key Takeaways

Answer 5

■ Zero Trust assumes no user or system is trusted by default
■ Requires continuous verification for access regardless of location or origin
■ Complements traditional perimeter-based defenses
■ Offers a roadmap for robust security in remote work, cloud computing, and diverse device environments