Best 11 Zero Trust Security Solutions (2026)
We reviewed the leading zero trust security platforms on identity verification depth, the granularity of resource segmentation, and how well each supports phased implementation for organizations transitioning from perimeter-based architectures.
Written by
Joel Witts
Technical Review by
Craig MacAlpine
Quick Summary
Zero trust security is an architecture that eliminates implicit network trust — requiring continuous identity verification and access context before granting access to any resource. Zero trust is a framework, not a single product; effective implementation requires coordinating identity, endpoint, network, and data controls. We reviewed the top platforms implementing zero trust and found ThreatLocker, NordLayer, and JumpCloud to be the strongest on identity verification depth and phased implementation support.
Zero Trust Security, also referred to as Zero Trust Networks or Zero Trust Architecture, is a security concept with one basic principle: don’t automatically trust anything to access your data, whether it’s a user trying to access an application, a network node, or a device trying to connect to the corporate network. In other words, trust must be established every time an access request is made, before access to any resource is granted.
The US National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) defines Zero Trust security as an “evolving set of cybersecurity paradigms that move defenses from static, network-based perimeters to focus on users, assets, and resources.” A Zero Trust Architecture uses Zero Trust principles to plan the deployment of industrial and enterprise workflows.
As such, the Zero Trust security solutions included in this list comprise a range of different technologies and processes that authenticate user access, segment and manage access to data, and continuously monitor and verify every request, all based on the core principle of “never trust, always verify.”
We’ve researched the top Zero Trust security solutions, considering key features including authentication methods, policies, and monitoring and reports. We’ve also considered pricing, target markets, and unique differentiating features that set each product apart from the competition.
Best Zero Trust Security Solutions Shortlist
- ThreatLocker – Best for strict endpoint control with deny-by-default policies
- NordLayer – Best for small to mid-sized teams wanting quick-to-deploy zero trust access
- JumpCloud – Best for consolidating identity, access, and device management in one platform
- Keeper Security – Best for zero trust credential and privileged access management
- Cisco Duo Premier – Best for push-based MFA and zero trust access in Cisco environments
- Check Point Harmony SASE – Best for consolidated ZTNA, web security, and threat prevention
- CrowdStrike Falcon – Best for AI-powered endpoint protection with managed threat hunting
- Microsoft Entra Private Access – Best for identity-driven zero trust in Microsoft environments
- Okta Workforce Identity Cloud – Best for organizations needing broad application integration with adaptive MFA
- Ping Identity PingOne for Workforce – Best for hybrid environments mixing modern SaaS with legacy applications
- Twingate – Best for lightweight VPN replacement with infrastructure-as-code support
ThreatLocker is a zero trust endpoint protection platform that enforces deny-by-default policies across your environment. It blocks anything not explicitly approved, from executables to scripts to USB devices. We think this approach makes it one of the strongest options for organizations that want strict endpoint control with no room for unauthorized execution.
ThreatLocker Key Features
The allowlisting engine is the real standout. You define what runs; everything else gets blocked. That approach eliminates entire categories of threats, including zero-days, because unknown code never executes in the first place. Ringfencing restricts what approved applications can do once running, limiting lateral movement even if an app is compromised. Storage controls handle USB, network share, and local file access policies, while elevation control lets admins grant temporary permissions without handing over full local admin rights. ThreatLocker also offers a built-in EDR module for real-time detection and response if something does get through.
What Customers Say
The onboarding experience gets consistent praise. Sales-to-deployment support is responsive and hands-on, which matters for a product that requires upfront policy tuning. Once policies are dialled in, day-to-day management is smooth. With that said, initial policy tuning demands significant effort in complex environments, and building allowlists across large device fleets comes with a learning curve.
Our Take
We think ThreatLocker is well worth considering if your priority is strict endpoint control. It fits well for SMBs and mid-market teams managing remote endpoints who want to eliminate unauthorized execution entirely. The deny-by-default model requires upfront investment, but once configured it delivers a level of control that traditional antivirus and EDR approaches can’t match.
Strengths
- Deny-by-default blocks unknown executables, including zero-day threats, before they run
- Ringfencing restricts what approved apps can access, limiting lateral movement
- Responsive onboarding support helps accelerate initial policy configuration
- Storage and USB controls for tight media access management
Cautions
- Reviews mention that initial policy tuning demands significant upfront effort in complex environments
- Learning curve for building allowlists across large device fleets
NordLayer is a ZTNA platform that replaces traditional VPN complexity with segmented, identity-based access to corporate resources. We think it works well for small to mid-sized teams that want to move to zero trust without a heavy deployment lift.
NordLayer Key Features
User management is straightforward and fast; adding, assigning, and removing users takes minutes. Network segmentation restricts users to specific applications and data rather than exposing the full network. The platform supports Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, and Android from a single dashboard, and a Kill Switch cuts traffic if the encrypted tunnel drops to prevent data leaks. IdP integrations with Azure AD, Google Workspace, Okta, and OneLogin make authentication straightforward. NordLayer also recently partnered with CrowdStrike to integrate Falcon Go and Falcon Enterprise directly through the platform.
What Customers Say
Setup and day-to-day usability get strong marks. The interface is clean, login is fast, and switching between VPN connections works without friction. Documentation and onboarding support are highlighted as strengths. Something to be aware of is that advanced configurations require support requests rather than self-service, which can slow things down for teams wanting more control.
Our Take
We think NordLayer is a good option for teams that prioritize ease of management over deep custom networking. If you need quick-to-deploy zero trust access without heavy infrastructure, this delivers.
Strengths
- Simple user management makes onboarding and offboarding fast
- Network segmentation enforces least-privilege access without full-network exposure
- Cross-platform support covers all major operating systems from one dashboard
- Kill Switch prevents data leaks if the encrypted tunnel drops
Cautions
- Customers note that advanced configurations require support requests rather than self-service
JumpCloud is an open directory platform that unifies identity, access, and device management into a single cloud-native console. It replaces the patchwork of Active Directory, scattered local accounts, and separate MDM tools with one platform. We think it is well worth considering for small to mid-sized teams, especially distributed workforces running mixed operating systems, who want to consolidate identity and device management without enterprise-grade complexity.
JumpCloud Key Features
Instead of buying separate products for identity, MFA, device management, and password vaulting, you get one console. The cross-platform agent handles Windows, macOS, and Linux endpoints from the same policy engine, which is a strong differentiator for mixed-OS environments. Conditional access policies enforce zero trust based on device compliance, user group, and network context. Passwordless authentication using biometrics and FIDO2 hardware keys is available, and RADIUS and LDAP support cover legacy network authentication.
What Customers Say
Support gets consistently high marks. Responses are fast, knowledgeable, and practical. Customers highlight how much easier fleet management becomes once everything is centralized, and smaller organizations appreciate the free tier for up to 10 users and 10 devices. With that said, advanced configuration workflows can be complex with nested menus and multiple panel navigation.
Our Take
We think JumpCloud is well worth considering if your identity and device management is scattered across multiple tools. It fits best for small to mid-sized teams, especially distributed workforces running mixed operating systems, who want centralized control without the overhead of traditional Active Directory.
Strengths
- Consolidates identity, access, and device management into a single cloud-native platform
- Cross-platform agent handles Windows, macOS, and Linux from one policy engine
- Conditional access policies enforce zero trust based on device and user context
- Passwordless options with biometrics and hardware keys
Cautions
- Reviews mention that advanced configuration workflows can be complex with nested menus
Keeper Security combines an enterprise password manager with a full privileged access management platform, all built on zero-knowledge encryption. We think the combination of credential management and privileged access in one platform makes it a strong option for mid-sized organizations that want zero trust controls over credentials and sessions without deploying separate tools.
Keeper Security Key Features
The zero-knowledge architecture encrypts everything locally before it reaches Keeper’s servers, so even Keeper cannot access your data. The password vault supports MFA, FIDO2 passkeys, and biometric login. KeeperPAM bundles session recording, browser isolation, and VPN-free privileged access into one package. Role-based enforcement policies let admins enforce password complexity, sharing rules, and MFA requirements across the organization. Secrets Manager handles API keys, database credentials, and certificates with automated rotation.
What Customers Say
Long-term users praise the vault’s reliability and the password generator. Support response times get positive mentions, with issues resolved within one to two business days. With that said, some customers report the vault search function can struggle to locate some records.
Our Take
We think Keeper is a strong option for mid-sized organizations that want zero trust access controls for credentials and privileged sessions without deploying separate tools. The zero-knowledge encryption is a real differentiator, and KeeperPAM adds capabilities that many standalone password managers don’t offer.
Strengths
- Zero-knowledge encryption ensures even Keeper cannot access stored credentials
- KeeperPAM bundles session recording, browser isolation, and VPN-free privileged access
- Supports FIDO2 passkeys, biometrics, and flexible MFA across all endpoints
- Support resolves issues within one to two business days
Cautions
- Vault search function can struggle to locate some records
Cisco Duo Premier
Cisco Duo Premier (formerly Duo Beyond) is a zero trust security solution that provides user verification, authentication, single sign-on, and multi-factor authentication, designed with zero trust principles in mind. It is fully integrated into Cisco’s existing zero trust security architecture, alongside Cisco’s other security solutions including Cisco SecureX, AnyConnect, and the Meraki and AirWatch platforms. We think the MFA experience is one of the smoothest in the market, and the tight Cisco ecosystem integration makes it a strong choice for organizations already running Cisco infrastructure.
Cisco Duo Premier Key Features
Push-based MFA replaces traditional passwords with smartphone notifications, and FIDO2 support opens the door to hardware key authentication. The Duo Network Gateway allows users to securely access internal web applications using any device or browser, from any network, without having to use remote access software or VPNs. Trusted Endpoints lets admins define and manage which devices can connect to company accounts, granting secure access with role-based controls based on device posture. Device health checks cover OS patch levels, browser versions, and security agent status, blocking non-compliant endpoints before they connect. Duo also offers passwordless authentication capabilities for supported applications, combining biometrics and security keys with adaptive policies.
What Customers Say
The setup process and daily user experience get high marks. Customers describe the interface as well-designed, and the push-based login flow as fast and frictionless. Reporting and monitoring tools give solid visibility into access events. Something to be aware of is that Premier-tier customer feedback is limited compared to Duo’s other tiers, and some reviews flag that advanced ZTNA features add complexity beyond simpler access needs.
Our Take
We think Duo Premier is a solid choice for mid-to-large enterprises already in the Cisco ecosystem or those standardizing on a single identity and access platform. The push-based MFA is well-designed and drives high adoption rates. Deploying Duo requires that the Duo certificate is present on your organization’s trusted devices, which can be achieved through the Duo mobile app, integrations with Active Directory Domain Services, or manual installation on Mac, Windows, iOS, and Android devices.
Strengths
- Push-based MFA drives high adoption with minimal friction
- Duo Network Gateway enables VPN-less access to internal apps from any device
- Per-application and per-group access policies with device posture checks
- Strong integration with Active Directory, Meraki, and AirWatch
Cautions
- Premier-tier customer feedback is limited, making long-term assessment harder
- Reviews flag that advanced ZTNA features add complexity beyond simpler access needs
Check Point Harmony SASE
Check Point Harmony SASE (formerly Perimeter 81) is a cloud-native platform bundling zero trust network access, secure web gateway, SD-WAN connectivity, and threat prevention into a single service. We think the consolidated approach works well for organizations wanting to combine remote access, web security, and branch connectivity without managing separate tools.
Check Point Harmony SASE Key Features
The threat prevention capabilities are a standout; independent testing shows a near 99% malware block rate, which puts it at the top end for zero-day and advanced threat protection. The secure web gateway adds URL filtering, SSL inspection, and application control. On-device inspection reduces backhauling, which keeps browsing fast and latency low for distributed teams. Agentless deployment supports unmanaged devices for BYOD and contractor use cases, and policy updates propagate instantly across all endpoints. The platform supports IPSec, OpenVPN, and WireGuard protocols to encrypt all network traffic.
What Customers Say
Customers praise the centralized dashboard and the speed of cloud-based deployment. Remote users report solid performance with low latency. The solution’s support is highlighted as efficient and helpful. With that said, hybrid cloud and on-prem setup adds complexity during initial deployment, and logging and analytics lack depth for detailed troubleshooting.
Our Take
We think Check Point Harmony SASE is well worth considering if you need to consolidate remote access, web security, and branch connectivity into one platform. The near 99% malware block rate is a strong selling point, and the agentless deployment option makes it practical for BYOD environments.
Strengths
- Near 99% malware block rate in independent testing
- Centralized dashboard unifies ZTNA, SWG, and SD-WAN policy management
- Agentless deployment supports unmanaged devices for BYOD and contractors
- Instant policy propagation keeps security controls current across all endpoints
Cautions
- Customers note that hybrid cloud and on-prem setup adds complexity during initial deployment
- Reviews flag that logging and analytics lack depth for detailed troubleshooting
CrowdStrike Falcon
CrowdStrike Falcon is a cloud-native endpoint protection platform combining AI-powered threat detection, real-time response, and managed threat hunting in a single lightweight agent. We think the single-agent approach is a real differentiator; you get antivirus, EDR, and threat intelligence without stacking separate tools.
CrowdStrike Falcon Key Features
One install covers antivirus, endpoint detection and response, and threat intelligence. The agent runs with minimal performance impact, keeping end users productive. The detection engine uses behavioral analysis and machine learning to identify threats without relying solely on signatures, which is good to see for zero-day protection. CrowdStrike Query Language (CQL) lets security teams search telemetry across their environment for threat hunting. Falcon OverWatch provides 24/7 managed threat hunting, adding a human layer that catches what automated detection might miss. CrowdStrike scored 100% detection and 100% protection in the 2025 MITRE ATT&CK evaluation.
What Customers Say
Support quality is a consistent highlight. Customers describe the team as fast, knowledgeable, and available around the clock. The centralized console and detection page get praise for organizing complex data clearly. Something to be aware of is that advanced features create a steep learning curve for newer staff, and the cloud-dependent agent can struggle in air-gapped or isolated network environments.
Our Take
We think CrowdStrike Falcon is one of the strongest endpoint protection platforms on the market. The 100% MITRE ATT&CK scores, combined with the lightweight agent and managed threat hunting, make it well worth considering for any organization serious about zero trust endpoint security.
Strengths
- Single lightweight agent covers antivirus, EDR, and threat intelligence
- 100% detection and protection in 2025 MITRE ATT&CK evaluation
- CrowdStrike Query Language enables fast threat hunting without deep specialist training
- 24/7 support and managed threat hunting reduce the burden on internal teams
Cautions
- Reviews highlight that advanced features create a steep learning curve for newer staff
- Cloud-dependent agent struggles in air-gapped or isolated network environments
Microsoft Entra Private Access
Microsoft Entra Private Access is a ZTNA solution designed to replace traditional VPNs with identity-driven, per-application access controls. It plugs directly into Microsoft’s Entra identity platform, which means conditional access policies, device compliance, and risk signals all feed into every access decision. Microsoft have made a strong commitment to zero trust principles throughout their solutions, and many of the core features needed to execute an organization-wide zero trust policy are available across Microsoft 365 and Azure subscriptions. We think it is well worth considering for organizations already invested in the Microsoft ecosystem.
Microsoft Entra Private Access Key Features
The integration with Microsoft’s conditional access engine is the core differentiator. Access policies adapt based on user identity, device health, location, and risk signals, all enforced per application rather than at the network level. Quick Access simplifies migration from legacy VPNs by letting you configure broad private IP ranges and FQDNs with identity-based zero trust access. Per-app access supports both TCP and UDP applications, and microsegmentation controls access at user, process, and device level. Microsoft also provides an easy-to-use authenticator smartphone app for MFA, which supports push notifications, biometric verification, and one-time passcodes. Microsoft Entra Private Access is priced at $5 per user per month standalone, or included in the Entra Suite.
What Customers Say
Customers consistently praise the conditional access policies and MFA experience as low-friction but effective. SSO across Microsoft 365 and third-party apps reduces login fatigue, and admin reporting visibility gets positive marks. Something to be aware of is that the strongest value depends on existing Microsoft identity investment; organizations without Entra ID may find the migration effort significant.
Our Take
We think Microsoft Entra Private Access is well worth considering if your identity infrastructure already runs on Microsoft Entra ID. The conditional access integration is a strong advantage, and the Quick Access feature makes VPN migration practical. The platform works best when paired with the broader Microsoft security stack, where signals from Defender, Intune, and Entra ID all contribute to access decisions.
Strengths
- Conditional access policies adapt to user, device, and risk context per application
- Native Entra ID integration eliminates third-party authentication layers
- Microsegmentation controls access at user, process, and device level
- Quick Access simplifies migration from legacy VPNs
Cautions
- Users report that strongest value depends on existing Microsoft identity investment
Okta Workforce Identity Cloud
Okta is a market-leading identity and access management provider whose Workforce Identity Cloud helps organizations manage access to systems and achieve zero trust security. Okta provides a number of different products and feature sets, including Workforce Identity for secure remote access with SSO, adaptive MFA, and lifecycle management, plus a developer toolkit for building zero trust controls into custom applications. We think the breadth of integrations and the adaptive MFA make it a strong choice for organizations needing an identity platform that connects to nearly everything.
Okta Workforce Identity Cloud Key Features
With 7,000-plus pre-built connections, getting SSO and MFA working across your application stack happens faster than with most alternatives. The universal directory consolidates user identities into one source of truth, which simplifies administration as organizations grow. Automated lifecycle management handles onboarding and offboarding, enforcing least-privilege policies throughout each user’s tenure. Phishing-resistant adaptive MFA adjusts authentication requirements based on device, location, and risk signals. Okta can be deployed across cloud-based or on-premises applications, and the Okta Integration Network provides pre-built integrations with leading identity, security, and IT tools.
What Customers Say
The SSO experience gets consistent praise. Having one secure portal for all tools improves both security and daily efficiency. Customers highlight how easy it is to organize applications by team or department and manage access at scale. With that said, admin settings spread across multiple panels make single-pane policy management harder, and configuration complexity increases misconfiguration risk without dedicated IAM staff.
Our Take
We think Okta is a strong choice for organizations that need an identity platform connecting to nearly everything. The 7,000-plus integration catalog and automated lifecycle management are real differentiators, and the adaptive MFA adds context-aware security without creating login friction for end users.
Strengths
- Over 7,000 pre-built integrations accelerate SSO and MFA deployment
- Automated onboarding and offboarding enforce least-privilege throughout the user lifecycle
- Phishing-resistant adaptive MFA adds context-aware security without login friction
- Universal directory consolidates identities into a single source of truth
Cautions
- Customers note that admin settings spread across multiple panels complicate management
- Configuration complexity increases misconfiguration risk without dedicated IAM staff
Ping Identity PingOne for Workforce
PingOne for Workforce is a cloud-based identity and access management platform focused on adaptive authentication and SSO for enterprise environments. We think the integration flexibility is a real strength; the platform supports SAML, OAuth, and OpenID Connect, which makes it well suited to hybrid environments mixing modern SaaS with legacy and on-premises applications.
Ping Identity PingOne for Workforce Key Features
The adaptive authentication engine adjusts based on contextual signals like device, location, and risk level, enforcing zero trust without creating unnecessary friction for trusted login scenarios. SSO covers both cloud and on-premises apps through the same policy framework. Automated provisioning and deprovisioning handle the full user lifecycle, and the DaVinci no-code orchestration engine lets admins build identity workflows without writing code. API security features protect machine-to-machine communication alongside user access.
What Customers Say
The SSO experience and security posture get strong marks. Customers highlight smooth SAML and OIDC integration, with clear metadata exchange guides that simplify application onboarding. Authentication reliability gets consistently positive feedback. Something to be aware of is that multiple admin interfaces across the Ping ecosystem complicate management, and smaller teams may find the initial configuration requires more time than expected.
Our Take
We think PingOne for Workforce is well worth considering if your environment mixes modern SaaS with legacy and on-prem applications. The adaptive authentication and protocol flexibility are strong, and the DaVinci orchestration engine adds real value for teams building custom identity workflows.
Strengths
- Adaptive authentication adjusts based on context without adding user friction
- SAML, OAuth, and OpenID Connect support covers hybrid and legacy environments
- Automated provisioning and deprovisioning handle the full user lifecycle
- DaVinci no-code orchestration engine for custom identity workflows
Cautions
- Customers note that multiple admin interfaces across the Ping ecosystem complicate management
Twingate
Twingate is a ZTNA solution that replaces traditional VPNs with application-level access controls and split tunnelling. It routes traffic directly to resources rather than backhauling through a central gateway, which keeps latency low. We think it is well worth considering for small to mid-sized teams wanting a modern VPN replacement with low setup effort and strong infrastructure-as-code support.
Twingate Key Features
The admin console is clean and fast to work with; adding resources, creating groups, and managing policies takes minimal effort. The Terraform provider is a standout for infrastructure teams, covering users, groups, connectors, and resources. Device trust checks verify posture before granting access, and the client app runs on Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, and Android with consistently positive usability feedback. Split tunnelling ensures only corporate traffic routes through Twingate, keeping personal browsing unaffected.
What Customers Say
Setup speed and daily usability get strong marks. Customers highlight how easy it is to onboard users and manage group-based resource access. The client app receives positive feedback across all operating systems, and the alias feature handles multiple networks with overlapping IP schemes well. With that said, enterprise MDM deployment can be complex, according to some user reviews.
Our Take
We think Twingate is well worth considering for small to mid-sized teams wanting a modern VPN replacement with low setup effort. The Terraform provider is a real differentiator if your team works with infrastructure-as-code, and the direct routing approach keeps performance strong.
Strengths
- Terraform provider enables full infrastructure-as-code management of access resources
- Direct routing reduces latency compared to traditional VPN backhauling
- Clean admin console makes resource and group management fast
- Cross-platform client app gets consistently positive usability feedback
Cautions
- Reviews mention MDM deployment across NinjaRMM, Intune, and Jamf Pro can be complex
Other Network Security Services
A cybersecurity architecture which drives secure access without the need for a VPN.
Secure access to internal apps without a VPN using identity and device posture.
Context-aware access to applications and data based on risk.
Delivers ZTNA and secure access via a unified SASE platform.
Cloud-native platform enforcing least-privilege access across users and apps.
How We Compared The Best Zero Trust Security Solutions
We assessed each platform across authentication methods, access policy enforcement, device posture verification, network segmentation, reporting and analytics, deployment flexibility, and real-world customer feedback. Products were evaluated on how effectively they enforce the core zero trust principle of “never trust, always verify” while maintaining a practical experience for end users and administrators.
What To Look For In Zero Trust Security Solutions
When selecting a zero trust security solution, consider which components of zero trust matter most for your environment. Some platforms focus on identity and access management, others on endpoint control, and others on network segmentation. Evaluate authentication methods (MFA, passwordless, adaptive), device posture verification, segmentation capabilities, and whether the platform integrates with your existing identity providers and security tools. Deployment model matters too; cloud-native solutions deploy faster, but organizations with on-premises infrastructure need hybrid support. Finally, consider whether you need a single-purpose tool or a broader platform that consolidates multiple security functions.
The Bottom Line
Zero trust security is not a single product but a set of principles applied across identity, access, endpoints, and network segmentation. The solutions in this list take different approaches to zero trust, from strict endpoint allowlisting to identity-driven access controls to full SASE platforms. The right choice depends on where your biggest gaps are. Organizations with strong identity infrastructure may benefit most from ZTNA and conditional access tools, while those with endpoint control concerns should look at deny-by-default platforms. For distributed workforces, cloud-native solutions with broad OS support and fast deployment will deliver the quickest time to value.
FAQs
Zero Trust Security: Everything You Need To Know (FAQs)
The zero Trust model is a security strategy that recommends not trusting any users, devices, or systems within your network, until they have been authenticated to be genuine.
In practice, this means continuous authentication of internal users and devices to reduce potential security risks, alongside enforcing the principle of least privilege. This ensures that users and systems only have access to the specific applications they need for the prescribed function of their job role.
It’s important to note that Zero Trust is not a ‘type’ of security solution (although many vendors have evolved their product suites to fit the Zero Trust model and now advertise their solutions as ‘Zero Trust’ services) but is a philosophy for how to approach security and verify access. Zero Trust can only be achieved by using a combination of technologies, including continuous authentication, network segmentation, network access control, and user management. As such the above list covers solutions that span these categories and can help organizations on their Zero Trust journey.
Zero Trust architecture is becoming increasingly adopted by both vendors and organizations looking to improve endpoint security and control access. As cyber-crime has continued to become more advanced and targeted, many organizations have opted to adopt zero trust strategies to secure their network. Organizations are adopting more complex network environments with the rise of cloud applications. As users have shifted from the office to hybrid ways of working, the threat landscape has become much more dynamic.
All these factors, in addition to others, have led the traditional perimeter-based security approach – which assumes everything outside the network is a security risk, while everything inside is secure – to become outdated when faced with the complexity of the modern cyber-threat landscape.
This has led many analysts, governments, and regulatory bodies to recommend organizations look to a Zero Trust to improve resilience. After the Colonial Pipeline cyber-attack of May 2021, US President Joe Biden signed an executive order mandating that all federal agencies implement a “Zero Trust” architecture and urged private organizations to do the same.
Zero Trust Software is a broad term to describe solutions that enable organizations to implement a Zero Trust approach into their network security strategies. This can include multiple different features and tools, such as network microsegmentation, user privileges management, Zero Trust Network Access (ZTNA), and identity controls such as multi-factor authentication (MFA) and Single Sign-On (SSO) which ensures users are continuously verified and monitored.
The Zero Trust strategy we know today was designed in 2010 by John Kindervag, who was the Principal Analyst for global research firm Forrester. But the concept goes back almost 15 years earlier than that, when it was coined by Stephen Paul March in his doctoral thesis on computational cybersecurity.
Zero Trust networks were seen as the ideal, but difficult to execute and measure. Starting in 2009, Google began working on “BeyondCorp”, it’s implementation of the Zero Trust architecture, working alongside Forrester’s analyst.
In the following decade, Zero Trust security became increasingly prevalent, especially with the rise of smartphones, cloud-based technologies and software-as-a-service. By 2019, Gartner was recommending that businesses implement Zero-Trust solutions as a component of their security strategy.
Today, almost all of the leading IT providers have adopted a Zero Trust Security model for their solutions, and many cybersecurity vendors offer Zero Trust Security solutions for their enterprise and SMB customers.
The COVID-19 pandemic and the resulting move to home working for much of the world’s population has accelerated the need and business drive to implement Zero Trust Security. In Forrester’s ‘Zero Trust Security Playbook’, they recommended Zero Trust Security as the best way to unify network and security infrastructure, while protecting a remote workforce.
In the modern workplace, applications and data are not centralized in one location. Instead, people, devices and connections are spread out and each employee holds the key to multiple points of entry to your business data.
To ensure that only trusted users can access systems, security processes typically require users to verify their identity with a username and password, and perhaps a secondary form of identification, like a biometric scan or a randomly generated one-time passcode.
However, this alone is not enough to protect against data breaches. Social engineering attacks such as phishing and spear-phishing, and the increasing threat of data breaches from insiders, mean that you cannot assume anyone connected to your network is safe.
The average cost of being hit with a data breach in 2020 was $4.4 million USD according to the IBM, with 52% of data breaches caused by a malicious cyberattack.
Zero Trust Security solutions help to mitigate against data breaches, by allowing organizations to continuously monitor network activity and automatically detect suspicious user behavior, prompting users to give further verification if needed, or preventing them from accessing certain software.
Zero Trust solutions can also help you to better manage user permissions, as one of the central components of a Zero Trust security model is that users should only ever have access to the data they absolutely need to – and data should be as segmented as possible to avoid widespread data breaches.
As we mentioned previously, Zero Trust security solutions don’t necessarily refer to any specific types of technology, security tool, or type of product. Instead, it refers to a range of holistic technologies and processes, designed to help organizations reduce the risk of data breaches by managing user identities and minimizing individual access to data.
There are a range of cybersecurity technologies that can help organizations to implement a Zero Trust security solution. Products and technologies that are designed to help organizations to achieve these aims can be categorized as Zero Trust Security Solutions.
These technologies include multifactor authentication (MFA), VPNs, identity and access management, data encryption, privileged access management, user permissions and adaptive authentication for users.
These solutions are designed to govern user access, ensuring that only verified users can access your systems, and continuously validating their identity, rather than giving everyone with a password access to your systems. These solutions also help to monitor user traffic and behavior, and can help to segment your network – splitting access to different departments and individual users into groups to limit user access to sensitive data.
It’s likely that your organization is already using one or more of these technologies to govern access to data; they are critical to staying protected against sophisticated cybersecurity threats.
As implementing Zero-Trust Networks have been recommended widely across the security industry, many vendors have launched Zero Trust security solutions, designed to help organizations to implement the technologies they need to stay secure.
If you’re considering implementing a Zero Trust Security solution for your organization, there are a number of key features, you should look for.
User Authentication And Access Management
The first and one of the most important features is user authentication and access management. This compromises a broad set of features and technologies that allow you to continuously verify user permissions and prevent unauthorized users from gaining access to your data.
In a typical security environment, once a user has logged into their account, they would be able to access any data within it as long as they remained authorized to do so. With systems like adaptive authentication in place, user behavior is continuously monitored, and if any unusual activity is detected, users are prompted to verify their identity with additional factors, which can include biometric controls and one-time-passcodes. This is most commonly implemented as multifactor authentication.
This means if users attempt to access data when they are in unusual locations, outside of working hours, or on new devices, they will be asked for additional levels of verifications to limit the risk of data breaches and successful phishing attacks.
Policy Enforcement And Network Segmentation
The second important feature to look for is the ability to create policies and segment data to limit the risk of data loss. One of the central philosophies underpinning Zero Trust is segmenting data and access to that data – to limit the extent of data breaches in the case of unauthorized access.
Zero Trust solutions can help you to implement this, by allowing your admins to create systems, processes and policies to govern who has access to data, where data is stored, create groups and departments, and restrict access on an individual user level.
This is a crucial set of features to minimize the risk of phishing and account compromise. It limits the amount of data that any malicious users can access if they are able to breach you company accounts and gives your IT admins important control over data access and user privileges.
Reporting And Monitoring Of Traffic And User Behavior
The final feature to look for in Zero Trust security solution is an extensive range of reports and automated alerting when suspicious user behavior is detected. This is important both to proactively detect any signs of account compromise or malicious network activity.
It’s important that your Zero Trust security solutions provide detailed visibility into users, devices and components across your entire network environment, so you can better react to threats and track security risks.
The best solutions will provide detailed logs, reports and automate alerts that detail who has accessed data, alert you to suspicious behavior and give you the tools you need to better detect and respond to threats.
Despite the emergence of a number of technologies and solutions designed to help you shift to a Zero Trust security approach, it’s important to remember that Zero Trust is a process designed to work across your entire network infrastructure.
The US National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), in its 2020 standards for Zero Trust architecture, defines Zero Trust as an “evolving set of cybersecurity paradigms that move defenses from static, network-based perimeters to focus on users, assets, and resources.”
In their report, they outline that “Implementing a ZTA is a journey rather than a wholesale replacement of infrastructure or processes. An organization should seek to incrementally implement zero trust principles, process changes, and technology solutions that protect its highest value data assets.”
NIST outlines seven steps for organizations looking to implement Zero Trust Security solutions. These are:
- Identifying Actors on The Enterprise.
- Identifying Assets on The Enterprise.
- Identifying Key Processes and Evaluate Risks Associated with Executing Process.
- Formulating Policies for the ZTA Candidate.
- Identifying Candidate Solutions.
- Initial Deployment and Monitoring.
- Expanding the ZTA.
You can read NIST’s full 2020 report for establishing Zero Trust in your organization here: https://nvlpubs.nist.gov/nistpubs/SpecialPublications/NIST.SP.800-207.pdf
“It’s no secret that Zero Trust can be a journey and there is no magic switch to “turn it on” overnight. That being said, we recommend customers build a thoughtful plan before getting started with their Zero Trust approach.
“Similarly, implementing Zero Trust is not just about a product roadmap: it’s also about identifying use cases and prioritizing your deployment. For instance, we recommend customers first take stock of what is currently being accessed so they can identify what needs to be secured most urgently.
“This way, you can choose and prioritize sets of user groups and applications. Once you have this list, you can deploy sequentially – there is no need to try and boil the ocean at once. A phased approach like this – specific sets of users and applications across your core use cases – can also help you break down the change management aspect that is crucial to any large-scale IT project.”
We researched lots of Zero Trust solutions while we were making this guide. Here are a few other tools that are worth your consideration:
Written By
Joel is the Director of Content and a co-founder at Expert Insights; a rapidly growing media company focussed on covering cybersecurity solutions.
He’s an experienced journalist and editor with 8 years’ experience covering the cybersecurity space. He’s reviewed hundreds of cybersecurity solutions, interviewed hundreds of industry experts and produced dozens of industry reports read by thousands of CISOs and security professionals in topics like IAM, MFA, zero trust, email security, DevSecOps and more.
He also hosts the Expert Insights Podcast and co-writes the weekly newsletter, Decrypted. Joel is driven to share his team’s expertise with cybersecurity leaders to help them create more secure business foundations.
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Craig MacAlpine is CEO and Founder of Expert Insights. Before founding Expert Insights in August 2018, Craig spent 10 years as CEO of EPA Cloud, an email security provider that rebranded as VIPRE Email Security following its acquisition by Ziff Davis, formerly J2Global (NASDAQ: ZD) in 2013.
Craig is a passionate security innovator with over 20 years of experience helping organizations to stay secure with cutting-edge information security and cybersecurity solutions.
Using his extensive experience in the email security industry, he founded Expert Insights with the singular goal of helping IT professionals and CISOs to cut through the noise and find the right cybersecurity solutions they need to protect their organizations.