How can you design IT systems for zero-trust security?

Zero-trust security is a principle that assumes no network, device, or user is inherently trusted and requires continuous verification and authorization. It is a proactive approach to protect IT systems from breaches, data leaks, and cyberattacks. In this article, you will learn how to design IT systems for zero-trust security by following these steps:

1 Identify assets and data

The first step is to identify and classify your assets and data, such as servers, applications, databases, files, and devices. You need to know what you have, where it is, who owns it, and how sensitive it is. This will help you determine the level of protection and access control required for each asset and data.

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Alejandro Alvarado

IT Help Desk Technician Currently still NOT Able to work.
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Deny all incoming and outgoing and only allow what is basically needed to function. This strategy has worked for me in the past.

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2 Segment the network

The second step is to segment the network into smaller zones based on the function, location, or sensitivity of the assets and data. This will limit the exposure and damage in case of a breach, as well as reduce the attack surface and complexity. You can use firewalls, routers, switches, or software-defined networking (SDN) to create and enforce network segmentation.

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Alejandro Alvarado

IT Help Desk Technician Currently still NOT Able to work.
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I do not recommend. It requires more work and time to setup,implement and manage. (My personal opinion based on experience.) It is good though.

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3 Implement multi-factor authentication

The third step is to implement multi-factor authentication (MFA) for all users and devices accessing the IT systems. MFA is a method of verifying the identity of a user or device by requiring two or more factors, such as a password, a token, a biometric, or a device fingerprint. MFA adds an extra layer of security and prevents unauthorized access based on stolen or compromised credentials.

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4 Apply least-privilege principle

The fourth step is to apply the least-privilege principle for all users and devices accessing the IT systems. The least-privilege principle means granting the minimum level of access and permissions needed to perform a task or function. This will minimize the risk of data loss, misuse, or abuse, as well as reduce the impact of a breach or an insider threat. You can use role-based access control (RBAC) or attribute-based access control (ABAC) to define and enforce the least-privilege principle.

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5 Encrypt data at rest and in transit

The fifth step is to encrypt data at rest and in transit. Data at rest is data that is stored on a device, such as a hard drive, a flash drive, or a cloud storage. Data in transit is data that is moving between devices, such as over a network, a wireless connection, or an email. Encrypting data at rest and in transit will protect it from unauthorized access, interception, or modification. You can use encryption algorithms, keys, certificates, or protocols to encrypt data at rest and in transit.

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6 Monitor and audit the IT systems

The sixth and final step is to monitor and audit the IT systems for any anomalies, incidents, or vulnerabilities. Monitoring and auditing will help you detect and respond to any potential or actual threats, as well as measure and improve the performance and compliance of the IT systems. You can use tools such as logs, alerts, dashboards, reports, or audits to monitor and audit the IT systems.

By following these steps, you can design IT systems for zero-trust security and enhance the protection and resilience of your assets and data.

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Alejandro Alvarado

IT Help Desk Technician Currently still NOT Able to work.
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This is very helpful to keep on top of Your game. I very highly recommend it. There are very good software and network security appliances to acomplish this.

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7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?

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Adam Al-Shunnaq

Cybersecurity Specialist @ CBJ
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1. **Verify Explicitly:** Continuously authenticate and authorize all users and devices, whether inside or outside the network. 2. **Assume Breach:** Never trust any user or device by default. Always verify and monitor access, even within the network perimeter. 3. **Least Privilege Access:** Grant users and devices only the minimum level of access required for their tasks. Avoid granting blanket access. 4. **Use a Risk-Based Approach:** Continuously assess and adapt security controls based on real-time risk factors, such as user behavior and device posture. 5. **Monitor and Automate:** Continuously monitor network traffic, device activity, and user behavior for anomalies

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How can you design IT systems for zero-trust security?

1

2

3

4

5

6

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1 Identify assets and data

2 Segment the network

3 Implement multi-factor authentication

4 Apply least-privilege principle

5 Encrypt data at rest and in transit

6 Monitor and audit the IT systems

7 Here’s what else to consider

IT Operations

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How can you design IT systems for zero-trust security?

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

1 Identify assets and data

2 Segment the network

3 Implement multi-factor authentication

4 Apply least-privilege principle

5 Encrypt data at rest and in transit

6 Monitor and audit the IT systems

7 Here’s what else to consider

IT Operations

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