What are the first steps for implementing a Zero Trust Architecture in a hybrid cloud environment?

All answers to this question.

The most effective starting point is a comprehensive inventory of your users, devices, and applications. You cannot protect what you don't see. Begin by implementing robust Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) across all entry points, as identity is the new perimeter in Zero Trust. Once identity is secured, move toward micro-segmentation by grouping workloads based on their function and sensitivity. This prevents lateral movement by attackers. It is vital to adopt a "never trust, always verify" mindset, ensuring that every access request is fully authenticated and authorized regardless of where it originates.

   Answered 2024-03-17 by Margaret Higgins

That inventory step is crucial, but how are you planning to handle legacy applications that don't support modern authentication protocols? Are you looking at placing them behind a specialized identity-aware proxy, or is there a plan to refactor those apps to fit the new security framework?

   Answered 2024-03-19 by Mark Patterson

• Mark, we are currently utilizing an identity-aware proxy to wrap our legacy systems. It allows us to apply modern MFA and conditional access policies without touching the underlying code of those older applications. It has been a life-saver for our compliance audits this year.

     Commented 2024-03-21 by Kimberly Adams

I highly recommend starting with "Least Privilege Access" for your administrative accounts. Reducing the number of users with global permissions is a quick win for reducing your overall risk.

   Answered 2024-03-23 by Brandon Clark

• I agree with Brandon. We implemented Just-In-Time (JIT) access for our admins, and it significantly reduced our attack surface overnight. It makes the environment much more manageable.

     Commented 2024-03-25 by Margaret Higgins