Traditional network security assumes that anything within your local area network (LAN) can automatically be trusted, while anything beyond the firewall and in the wide-area network (WAN) is untrustworthy. That means if a hacker is able to break through your firewall and access your LAN, they are free to navigate your entire internal network undetected.
Zero trust architecture, on the other hand, takes the approach that nothing and no one is trustworthy. Every single user and device must be verified every single time they make a request to access your network of technology. So, if a hacker makes it past your firewall, they will be easy to detect and unable to access anything in your internal network.
Why Is Zero Trust Important in Business?
Implementing a zero trust approach to security will give your business better protection from cyberattacks and ransomware. Because no users are automatically trusted, there is little risk of blind spots in your security. For instance, business owners often overlook printers when securing their network. Cybercriminals can hack printers and other office equipment just like other devices.
Zero trust architecture requires securing all technical elements of your business, including your office equipment. Make sure to include printing in your zero trust strategy by requiring authorized access for every user and enabling end-to-end encryption on your devices.
Three Benefits of Zero Trust Security Architecture
1. Protects Sensitive Data
Developing a zero trust framework will ensure security when printing, scanning, emailing, and otherwise handling sensitive information. Data breaches are extremely costly—your business will likely not only lose money, but also important employee and client relationships. Once that trust is gone, it’s difficult for your business to build back its reputation. Eliminate the risk of a data breach by implementing and enforcing a zero trust security strategy as soon as possible.
2. Secures Remote Employees
With the recent increase in remote work, secure office technology is more vital than ever. Remote employees work outside of a business’s internal network, so they aren’t as protected by traditional security measures as in-person employees. Because of this, it can be difficult to verify whether an access request is coming from a remote employee or a hacker impersonating their user identification. Zero trust architecture utilizes a combination of verification methods, making it easier to confirm whether external users are actually who they say they are.
3. Controls Cloud Access
Cloud computing is a technology trend that hasn’t been losing any steam. While cloud computing is necessary for flexible collaboration and better scalability, the security of the service depends on your cloud provider. Zero trust architecture can help strengthen cloud security, however, by controlling and limiting user access to the cloud.
