Zero Trust
Definition
A security model that requires verification for every access request, regardless of location, ensuring robust protection against threats.
Use Cases
- Google: Replace traditional VPN-based access with identity- and device-aware access for employees and contractors. — Google developed BeyondCorp, a Zero Trust approach where access decisions are based on user identity, device state, and context rather than being on the corporate network. Internal applications are protected with policy enforcement points and continuous evaluation of trust signals. (Reduced reliance on perimeter security and VPNs, enabling more secure access from untrusted networks and improving workforce mobility while maintaining strong access controls.)
- Cloudflare: Provide Zero Trust access to internal tools and SaaS apps for a distributed workforce. — Cloudflare implemented identity-aware access controls using its Zero Trust platform (Cloudflare One), integrating SSO/IdP, enforcing MFA, and applying device posture checks and per-application access policies instead of broad network access. (Improved control over who can access which applications, reduced exposure from implicit network trust, and supported secure remote work without granting full network-level access.)
Provider Equivalents
- AWS: AWS Verified Access
- Azure: Microsoft Entra ID (Azure AD) Conditional Access
- GCP: BeyondCorp Enterprise
- OCI: OCI IAM
Frequently Asked Questions
- What's the difference between Zero Trust and VPN?
- A VPN extends your network to the user, often giving broad access once connected. Zero Trust does not assume the network is safe; it verifies each request to each app or resource using identity, device posture, and policy, typically granting only the minimum access needed.
- When should I use Zero Trust?
- Use Zero Trust when you have remote or hybrid workers, multiple cloud environments, sensitive data, third-party access needs, or you want to reduce the risk of lateral movement after an account is compromised. It’s especially useful when you want per-application access instead of full network access.
- How much does Zero Trust cost?
- Costs depend on scope and tooling: identity provider licensing (SSO/MFA), device management/EDR, access proxies or ZTNA services, logging/SIEM, and implementation effort. Pricing is often per user/month for identity and ZTNA, plus usage-based costs for logging and network egress. The biggest cost drivers are the number of users/apps, required security signals (device posture, risk scoring), and integration/operations work.
Category: emerging
Difficulty: advanced
Related Terms
See Also