It is estimated that the cost of cybercrime could reach a massive $9.5 trillion in 2024 and exceed $10.5 trillion in 2025. With more and more organizations adopting a hybrid work model that allows employees to work remotely, cybercrime is becoming increasingly problematic. Cybercriminals are becoming smarter, and cyberattacks are more difficult to detect and predict.
Recently, more vulnerabilities emerged in Ivanti Connect Secure, a leading VPN (virtual private network) service, sending VPN utility vendors into a frenzy. These and other threats demonstrate that our conventional cybersecurity defenses are no match for the constantly evolving cybersecurity threats.
However, zero trust access (ZTA) emerges as a promising cybersecurity defense, particularly in remote working configurations. Here is a rundown of how the ZTA model works and what makes Cloudbrink better than ordinary ZTA.
Understanding Zero Trust Access
As cybersecurity threats continue to evolve and increase, organizations are constantly changing their approach to cybersecurity. ZTA is one strategy that organizations can use to bolster their network security and ward off cyberattacks. ZTA is also commonly referred to as perimeter-less security because the model extends the security to apps and data hosted outside of the enterprise networks (perimeter), such as SaaS apps, multi-cloud apps, and so on.
ZTA is founded on the basic security idea that an actor should not be assumed to be trustworthy simply because they are already in a network. There is always a risk that a malicious actor might infiltrate a network and, thus, it is always safe to authenticate based on the situation. This simply means that not everyone in a network should be trusted.
ZTA is based on three core principles: least-privilege access, assumed breach, and explicit verification. With ZTA, data access is granted only to those who need it and when they need it. This model also assumes that there is a breach or one is occurring soon. With this assumption, network administrators are always ready to respond to and defend against an attack. With this in mind, it is imperative to verify identity every time a user is granted access to a network.
When building the framework of a zero-trust access network, organizations must take a series of steps:
- They must define the most sensitive and useful data, for this will be the target. The applications and services that are most likely to be targeted must be singled out and the network built around them.
- They must study and understand traffic flow within their network to identify vulnerabilities, which are the most probable breach points. With this at hand, the organization can then build the ZTA architecture and policy with the following questions in mind: what is being protected; where are access requests originating from; who is making these requests; what is the reason for the request; and when should the request be granted.
- They must continuously stand guard over their network, as this is what zero-trust access networks are all about. This way, organizations can prevent unauthorized access to their valuable resources and prevent cyberattacks.
One of the biggest misconceptions that compromise the success of ZTA networks is the assumption that VPNs will work. A VPN is another potential point of failure; logging in remotely will not work if malicious actors are also in the VPN network.
Benefits of ZTA
ZTA has three main benefits:
- Enhanced security: ZTA requires authentication during each request—regardless of location. While a VPN asks users to verify their identity upon logging in (and thereby grants access to the entire network), ZTA authentication procedures keep activities separate by authenticating each activity separately. This separation of access permissions reduces the risk of unauthorized access to resources and data.
- Improved monitoring: IT (information technology) teams stand to benefit from granular access; with automatic logging of requests, your IT teams can more easily observe the virtual environment in real-time.
- Scalability: ZTA models are highly scalable, as end users are supported in remote and hybrid work—allowing companies to grow with fewer concerns about physical infrastructure.
Accelerated Adoption of New Technology
Technology is constantly advancing and changing, significantly impacting business operations. Businesses are embracing new technologies as a means to gain and sustain a competitive edge. However, choosing the right technology to adopt early presents challenges and risks. In the tech industry, where technological changes occur rapidly, keeping up with trends can be daunting. Emerging technologies such as AI, blockchain, quantum computing, behavioral analytics, and IoT are driving the evolution of the tech industry. This explains the substantial investments in research and development by tech companies. It is a race to stay ahead of the competition.
In the cybersecurity sector, new products are being unveiled daily, with companies eager to adopt them in a bid to remain competitive. This rush has significantly shortened the lifespan of cybersecurity technologies before they become obsolete. Leaders in the industry cannot afford to overlook highly innovative and emerging technologies.
The primary impact of new technology adoption by tech companies has been the stimulation of innovation. Continuous innovation is crucial for business growth as it enhances all operational areas. Innovation increases efficiency and productivity, which in turn reduces operating costs. For example, Cloudbrink’s HAaaS, a highly innovative Zero Trust Architecture, utilizes machine learning and AI to identify and respond to cyber threats in real time. Organizations deploying this security system significantly reduce threats to their data and reputation. Looking ahead, the prospect of accelerated technological innovation appears limitless.
Why Cloudbrink’s Personal SASE Is Better Than ZTA
Cloudbrink’s Personal SASE service offers more than traditional ZTA, thanks to its high-speed connectivity and additional security. This service combines high-performance zero trust network access (ZTNA) with automated moving target defense (AMTD) to ensure that all connections are not only ultra-fast but also secure.
Led by CEO Prakash Mana, Cloudbrink has focused on developing solutions that not only meet the demands of modern cybersecurity but also enhance user experience. The Personal SASE service is simple to install and manage, providing frictionless onboarding and an unmatched experience for companies implementing ZTNA. The absence of a need for extra hardware makes the service cost-effective, rendering it an ideal cybersecurity solution for businesses seeking to accelerate their success.
The points of divergence between Cloudbrink’s service and other ZTA services are best encapsulated by the acronym FAST – highly flexible, autonomous, secure, and temporal (FAST). It delivers consistent network performance and top-grade security against a wide range of threat factors. Hybrid employees will enjoy faster uploads and downloads, offering them peace of mind to work from anywhere.
Closing Remarks
Cloud computing has emerged as the new frontier in the digital landscape. The allure of enhanced data security through cloud encryptions is drawing organizations to the cloud in large numbers. Zero trust access stands out as one of the most effective security solutions for hybrid workforces. The advantages of ZTA networks extend beyond enhanced security, encompassing better compliance with regulations and improved user experience. For organizations aiming to fortify their security, adopting the ZTA model is becoming increasingly essential.
If the transition to ZTA seems daunting, we are here to help. Our service is easy to set up, operate, and manage. It’s crafted not only to safeguard your data and resources but also to empower you in laying a robust foundation for growth. Cloudbrink assures a return on investment after adopting its Persnal SASE service. ZTA represents the future of network security. Ensure your organization is not left behind.
