Share Via
Table of Content
Zero trust vs zero trust network access: what you need to know
Zero trust (ZT) is a network security model that assumes no user or device is trusted by default, even if it is inside the network’s perimeter. Zero trust network access (ZTNA) extends this concept to provide secure access to applications and services based on strict identity verification. It is primarily used for mobile devices and remote access.
Both models aim to minimize security risks by continuously validating every access request. It’s crucial for organizations to understand how zero trust principles enhance network security by reducing the attack surface and ensuring robust access controls.
Understanding the difference between ZT and ZTNA can be very confusing. Where zero trust is an overarching approach that covers many areas and use cases, ZTNA is one component of SSE that focuses on securing data and applications from one entity from a network perspective. The confusion stems from zero trust also providing network security, but from the perspective of legacy NAC, VPNs and segmentation.
Nile has utilized zero trust principles in a modern way that eliminates VLANs and broader use of NAC for campus and branch use cases, such as controlling access for IoT devices. Nile maintains relationships with SSE vendors to ensure ZTNA solutions can be used. The remainder of this article highlights the differences between ZT and ZTNA and how to decide which is best for your organization.
Zero trust vs zero trust network access: how are they related?
Zero trust as a security philosophy
Zero trust is a comprehensive security philosophy that assumes no user or device is inherently trustworthy. This model dictates that all access requests, whether from within or outside the network, must be continuously authenticated and authorized. By eliminating implicit trust, zero trust principles help protect against insider threats and compromised accounts. It typically involves segmentation and the use of VPNs and sets the foundation for a robust, secure campus network environment.
Zero trust network access as an implementation
Zero trust network access (ZTNA) is a practical implementation of zero trust principles specifically for remote and mobile device network access. ZTNA ensures that users can access specific applications and services. By doing so, ZTNA helps to secure remote access and protect sensitive resources from unauthorized access.
Continuous validation in both models
Both zero trust and ZTNA emphasize the need for continuous validation of users and devices. Unlike traditional security models that trust users once they are inside the network, these models require ongoing authentication and authorization for every access request. This continuous validation helps to mitigate risks associated with credential theft and lateral movement within the network. By consistently enforcing access controls, organizations can better protect their critical assets.
Zero trust vs zero trust network access: what’s the difference?
Scope of application
Zero trust is a broad network security framework that applies to all aspects of an organization’s IT environment. It encompasses policies, practices, and technologies designed to eliminate implicit trust and continuously verify every access request. Zero trust aims to protect the entire network, including users, devices, applications, and data. This comprehensive approach ensures that security is maintained across all layers of the IT infrastructure.
Focus on specific access privileges
Zero trust network access, on the other hand, specifically focuses on securing network access per device. ZTNA controls access to applications and services by ensuring that only authenticated and authorized users can connect. It provides secure remote access by creating secure, encrypted connections that are verified continuously. ZTNA is particularly useful for organizations with remote workers or distributed networks, as it enhances security without relying on traditional VPNs.
Implementation methods
The implementation of zero trust typically involves a combination of identity management, multi-factor authentication, micro-segmentation, and continuous monitoring. These elements work together to create a security posture that is resilient to internal and external threats. ZTNA implementation focuses on creating secure access pathways using gateways or brokers that authenticate and authorize users before granting access to applications. This ensures that access is granted on a need-to-know basis, significantly reducing the attack surface.
User experience and deployment
Zero trust can be more complex to implement across an entire organization because it requires a holistic approach to security. It involves rethinking and redesigning security policies and integrating various technologies to achieve a unified security model. ZTNA, however, can be deployed more easily in specific areas where secure access is critical. It often integrates seamlessly with existing infrastructure, providing a smoother user experience while enhancing security for remote and on-premises access.
How to choose between zero trust and zero trust network access
1. Identify your security goals
The first step in choosing between zero trust and zero trust network access is to identify your organization’s specific security goals. Determine whether you need a comprehensive security framework that covers all aspects of your IT environment or if you primarily need to secure remote access and application-level interactions. Understanding your primary objectives will help guide your decision.
2. Evaluate your current infrastructure
Assess your existing IT infrastructure to determine which model will integrate more seamlessly. Zero trust may require significant changes to your current setup, including implementing new technologies and policies. ZTNA might be easier to deploy if you already have a distributed workforce or rely heavily on cloud services, as it can often be integrated with minimal disruption to your current operations.
3. Consider scalability and future needs
Consider how each model will scale with your organization’s growth and evolving security requirements. Zero trust provides a robust and scalable framework that can adapt to future security challenges. ZTNA is a component of SSE and offers flexibility, making it ideal for organizations expecting rapid expansion or changes in their remote work policies. Choose the model that aligns best with your long-term security strategy.
4. Budget and resource allocation
Analyze your budget and available resources for implementing and maintaining the chosen security model. Zero trust might involve adding separate solutions, higher upfront costs and require more ongoing management, but it provides comprehensive security benefits. ZTNA might offer a more cost-effective solution for securing specific access entry points with potentially lower maintenance overhead. Balancing cost with security needs is crucial in making an informed decision.
What is the future for zero trust and zero trust network access?
Increasing adoption
The use of zero trust and zero trust network access is set to rise as organizations seek stronger security within a campus and branches, and in a digital and remote work landscape. Growing cyber threats and the expansion of cloud services make these models crucial for protecting data and ensuring secure access.
Technological advancements
Advancements in AI, machine learning, and automation will enhance zero trust and ZTNA, improving real-time threat detection and response. These technologies will enable more effective continuous validation and adaptive access controls, strengthening overall network security.
Integration with other frameworks
Zero trust and ZTNA will increasingly integrate with broader security frameworks like secure access service edge (SASE) and endpoint detection and response (EDR). This integration will provide comprehensive protection against diverse cyber threats, enhancing overall security strategies.
Regulatory compliance
As data protection regulations tighten, zero trust and ZTNA will help organizations achieve compliance. Their granular control and continuous monitoring capabilities are essential for meeting standards such as GDPR, HIPAA, and CCPA, driving further adoption.
Stop attackers in their tracks with Nile
Explore how Nile Access Service sets a new standard for secure connectivity across your campus and branch locations. Nile has built zero trust principles into the network which eliminates IT organizations from needing to engineer solutions on their own. Relationships with SSE vendors provide the ability to leverage modern cloud-based ZTNA principles. Together, this provides a universal approach to zero trust security.
From a campus network perspective, Nile reduces the potential attack surface and automatically locks down any malware/ransomware presence to only infected devices, orchestrating zero trust isolation of each connected user and device within its wired and wireless access network fabric.
By eliminating the traditional complexities of VLANs and gateway ACLs, Nile makes it easy to enforce global security policies across your growing enterprise network for better visibility, performance, and reliability.
Don’t leave your network, users and data vulnerable. Authenticate and isolate all internal and guest users and devices with Nile’s built-in zero trust security features.
Discover how to take your network security to the next level.
