Question 1

What is zero trust security?

Accepted Answer

Zero trust security is a model that requires all users and devices to be authenticated, authorized, and continuously validated before accessing resources, regardless of location or network. It operates on the principle that all access requests require verification regardless of source, eliminating implicit trust even for internal users or systems. This approach replaces the traditional idea that anything inside an organization's network is safe. Instead, every access request is treated as untrusted until proven otherwise. Access is granted based on identity, device health, and context, with policies enforced dynamically. This reduces the risk of lateral movement by attackers who have breached the perimeter.

Question 2

How is zero trust different from perimeter-based security?

Accepted Answer

Zero trust security differs from perimeter-based security by rejecting the idea of a trusted internal network and requiring verification for every access request, regardless of origin. Perimeter-based models assume that once a user is inside the network, they are trusted, which allows attackers to move laterally after breaching the outer defenses. In contrast, zero trust enforces strict identity verification and least-privilege access for every request, even from inside the network. This limits an attacker's ability to move sideways after gaining initial access. Policies are dynamic and based on device status, user role, and request context, making the system more resilient to insider threats and compromised credentials.

Zero Trust Security

What is zero trust security?

How is zero trust different from perimeter-based security?