As technology infrastructure continues to evolve globally, many private individuals and corporate entities are finding traditional perimeter-based defenses inadequate for their needs. Conversely, the introduction of various highly sophisticated protection techniques has, unfortunately, also failed to curb the spate of attacks.
For context, in 2023, there were 72% more security breaches than we saw in 2021, the year that previously held the infamous record for the most cyberattacks in history. These facts go to show that there is a need for a granular approach to securing networks. In steps zero trust.
What is Zero Trust Security and How Does it Differ from Castle & Moat Protection?
Zero Trust operates under the assumption that there exists no traditional network edge and no user is inherently trustworthy. As such, the security framework requires the verification of every device trying to access its networks, whether from within or outside the organization. Potential users are scrutinized based on device health, identity and least privilege principles.
Often contrasted with Castle & Moat frameworks, Zero Trust network access is deemed the most fitting for hybrid cloud environments. Castle & Moat frameworks work by allowing users within the network access to data while restricting devices on the outside.
However, unlike Castle & Moat approaches that typically utilize intrusion detection and intrusion systems, Zero Trust adopts sophisticated individual context-based security perimeters.
Exploring Microsegmentation in the Context of Zero Trust Security Frameworks
Many security experts believe that Zero Trust systems work well with microsegmentation. For the unaccustomed, microsegmentation is simply an advanced measure that carves up a network into small zones or segments.
Imagine a large open office being divided into individual cubicles, each with its own lock and access control. Microsegmentation does the same thing in a network, creating isolated zones around specific workloads or applications. This way, the security framework can better control how users and devices access data.
When combined with a Zero Trust network access, microsegmentation not only requires verification before access grant but limits authorized users to a restricted set of data. It essentially creates a virtual moat around critical assets and prevents lateral movement, thereby limiting the potential damage if a breach occurs.
As expected, the benefits of this approach are simply immense. Firstly, it is a simple security policy technique. Also, it helps to streamline incident response as teams can quickly isolate threats, thereby saving time and money.
Types of Microsegmentation Models
One interesting facet of microsegmentation is its diversity. It comes in different forms, ultimately depending on the type of network layer your business operates. That said, here are the three major microsegmentation models available.
Network-based Microsegmentation
Arguably the most common microsegmentation technique, this approach leverages existing network facilities like routers and firewalls. It then creates and implements security policies for isolated network segments, making it a good starting point for organizations newly establishing their infrastructure.
Host-based Microsegmentation
Compared to network-based approaches, host-based segmentation is more granular and secure, though requiring extra software deployment. This technique works with software agents directly installed on individual endpoints. Access control and security policy enforcement is typically implemented at workload level when integrated with Zero Trust.
Hypervisor-based Microsegmentation
This microsegmentation technique relies on a hypervisor, a program which manages virtual machines, to establish isolated segments on workloads and enforce security policies. Most suitable for network environments with existing virtualization, this approach offers a high level of granular control.
Steps to Implement Microsegmentation Within a Zero Trust Environment
Between 2021 and 2023, there have been several instances of security breaches in casinos across Canada and the U.S. This is just one example of many industries that are trying hard to combat the menace. Besides, the frequency and impact of such occurrences are simply alarming.
In addition to existing security obligations, Canadian casinos need to put more stringent measures in place. The best casinos in the country have a remarkable variety of games from leading software developers. Similarly, they offer a massive variety of payment methods appealing to the average customer, and these features underscore the need for microsegmented Zero Trust.
Looking to implement the security technique? Here’s a quick six-step guide to help you.
- Define your Zero Trust network across the three main on-ramps (user and device identity, applications and data, the network)
- Inventory your network environment
- Evaluate available microsegmentation options
- Set up your Zero Trust framework and segment your network
- Integrate with microsegmentation and existing security tools
- Perform regular monitoring, review and updates.
Final Words
Zero Trust frameworks do come with inherent challenges. The entire process, though appearing simple, can prove quite complex without technical knowledge. Also, as workloads grow with the organization, deployment measures may need to be constantly updated, which can prove stressful.
However, with automation software and investments in monitoring infrastructure, you can circumvent these problems and enjoy the benefits of microsegmentation and Zero Trust security without hassles.
