Transforming a business’ digital infrastructure into a zero trust architecture requires three important elements: security applications, on-site tools, and a winning strategy. With these three elements, every endpoint on a company’s network can be better protected and authenticated when access to information is needed. The right tools and the right strategy translate to incrementally changing your business’ digital infrastructure in a way that keeps employees informed on how their network navigation is changing and what they need to do to aid in making the network more secure. In this article, we want to take a closer look at what’s needed to begin moving to zero trust architecture, so SMBs can work with their IT consultant closely during their digital transformation!
Security Applications
The security applications you implement into your business’ network must cover every user, whether they are working remotely or in the office. An important example of these applications is a multifactor authentication (MFA) solution that verifies a user’s identity and device trust. The security app you choose should double check that the credentials used to log in are those of a valid employee and then ask for a push notification or other means of verifying user identity. The best MFA tools will then check the device’s health to ensure it meets security standards before allowing access to the network or application.
On-Site Tools
One security tool that can help move an SMB’s digital infrastructure to a zero-trust model is a network gateway. A network gateway can help restrict access to sensitive applications or important data because it connects users trying to log into an app to a proxy server first. This server will verify the credentials used to log in and verify the health of the device just like the security applications for remote workers. Not every business will need a network gateway, but this security tool showcases well the kind of security features used by the security solutions your IT professional will recommend for moving your network to a zero trust architecture.
Long-Term Strategy
By working with an IT consultant, your business can acquire the security solutions needed for a zero trust architecture, but this transition demands a long-term strategy. Not only will the business need to plan the implementation of MFA apps, next-generation firewalls, and endpoint protection, but employees will need to stay informed as well. This strategy should include a timeline for implementing the solutions needed for zero trust architecture and an explanation of how an employee’s workflow will change. It is recommended to also account for troubleshooting needs and working with your IT specialist to plan how employees can reach out for help while new tools and resources roll out.
Summary
Moving to a zero trust architecture will make a business’ network more secure, but it is critical to understand what zero trust security tools look like and have a strategy for rolling out their implementation. The security services mentioned in this article are just a few of the options available to SMBs, and it is encouraged to work with your IT specialist to identify the best tools for your unique situation. When looking for an IT consultant to partner with, your business should have a partner that helps plan for every step of your transition and equips you with the knowledge and applications needed for a more secure network environment!
