How to Implement Zero Trust Pragmatically

When implementing Zero Trust in today’s cybersecurity landscape, it’s easy to become entangled in the complex strategies and advanced technologies that often dominate the conversation. While the latest methods, like Zero Trust, play a crucial role, it’s essential to recognize that they are just one piece of a much larger cybersecurity puzzle.

Drawing from the soon-to-be-released in Q4 the Visible Ops Cybersecurity by Scott Alldridge, available at www.itpi.org it’s clear that while Zero Trust offers a powerful framework for securing modern enterprises, other aspects of a comprehensive cybersecurity program are equally vital. In fact, starting with what you have—before diving into the complexities of Zero Trust—can be just as impactful.

Start with Existing Resources

One practical approach to introducing Zero Trust is to leverage existing tools like Active Directory, integrating domain admin access with a ticketing system. This strategy, which I often emphasize, avoids the need for significant new investments and instead builds on what’s already in place. By implementing just-in-time (JIT) access management, organizations can immediately reduce their attack surface without overhauling their entire infrastructure.

I frequently challenge organizations with simple yet revealing questions: “How many domain admins do you have? Do these admins have standing privileges?” Often, the responses uncover vulnerabilities that could easily be mitigated by reducing unnecessary access. This straightforward step aligns perfectly with Zero Trust’s principle of least privilege.

Zero Trust in Practice: Focus on Least Privilege

Zero Trust isn’t merely about sophisticated technology; it’s about implementing principles that can be operationalized through practical steps. Privileged Access Management (PAM), for example, is where the Zero Trust philosophy truly shines. By adopting a zero standing privileges approach, where domain admins are granted access only on a JIT basis, tied to a ticketing system, organizations can drastically reduce the risk of unauthorized access.

Imagine a scenario where an admin needs to resolve an issue at 3:00 AM. Instead of having continuous access, they would request access through a PAM solution, receive it only for the time necessary, and have it automatically revoked once the task is completed. This method not only enhances security but also creates an auditable trail—a critical component of a robust cybersecurity posture.

Keep It Simple: Practical Steps First

Implementing Zero Trust doesn’t require a sweeping, complex overhaul from day one. Start with the basics. For instance, removing standing privileges for domain admins is a simple yet profound step that can be implemented using tools most organizations already possess.

Moreover, integrating your PAM with your ticketing system can streamline security processes, further reducing the risk of unauthorized access. These fundamental actions are not only achievable but also lay the groundwork for a more extensive Zero Trust strategy as the organization matures.

Conclusion: Zero Trust as Part of a Broader Strategy

While Zero Trust is an essential part of modern cybersecurity, it’s important not to overlook other elements that contribute to a strong security posture. As highlighted in the Visible Ops Cybersecurity book, beginning with manageable, practical steps can yield significant security improvements. By focusing on the basics—like eliminating standing privileges and integrating existing systems—organizations can embark on their Zero Trust journey without being overwhelmed by complexity.

Remember, Zero Trust is not a destination but a journey, one that starts with a single, thoughtful step.