What is ZeroTrust?
ZeroTrust is a security idea that assumes no one-whether inside or outside a network-should be trusted automatically. Every request to access data or a system must be checked and verified each time.
Let's break it down
- Zero: means “none” or “nothing” - there is no default trust.
- Trust: believing someone is safe without proof. In ZeroTrust you don’t give that belief away.
- Never trust, always verify: treat every connection as if it could be risky, and confirm it’s allowed before letting it through.
- Assume breach: act as if an attacker might already be inside, so you protect each part separately.
- Least privilege: give users only the minimum access they need to do their job, no more.
Why does it matter?
Because cyber-attacks are getting smarter, relying on old “trusted network” ideas leaves big gaps. ZeroTrust limits what a hacker can reach, reducing damage and protecting sensitive information.
Where is it used?
- Large companies securing employee laptops, cloud apps, and on-premise servers.
- Government agencies protecting classified data and critical infrastructure.
- Online banking platforms verifying every transaction and device.
- Healthcare providers safeguarding patient records across multiple clinics and devices.
Good things about it
- Cuts the impact of a breach by isolating access.
- Works well with modern cloud and mobile environments.
- Improves visibility: you see who is trying to access what, when.
- Supports compliance with regulations that require strict data protection.
- Encourages a proactive security mindset rather than reacting after an incident.
Not-so-good things
- Can be complex and costly to design, deploy, and manage.
- May cause friction for users if verification steps are too frequent or slow.
- Requires continuous monitoring and updating of policies, which can strain resources.
- Existing legacy systems may not easily integrate with ZeroTrust controls.