¶ Executive Summary
In today's evolving threat landscape, traditional network security models are no longer sufficient to protect sensitive data and critical assets. The Zero Trust Network Access (ZTNA) model has emerged as a highly effective approach to cybersecurity. This solution brief explores how ZTNA, combined with device posture checks, can enhance security by ensuring that only trusted and compliant devices are granted access to corporate networks and resources.
¶ What is ZTNA
Zero Trust Network Access (ZTNA) is a security model that operates under the assumption that no device, user, or application should be trusted by default, regardless of their location. This approach mandates continuous verification and validation of all entities trying to access network resources. Device posture checks are an essential component of ZTNA, as they assess the security posture of devices before granting access, thereby minimizing the risk of security breaches.
¶ ZTNA with Device Posture Check
In a ZTNA environment, every access request is subject to continuous authentication. Instead of relying solely on user credentials, additional factors such as device health and posture are taken into account. Continuous authentication ensures that access privileges are dynamically adjusted based on the evolving security context.
Device posture checks involve evaluating the security posture of devices before granting access. This assessment considers factors such as the presence of up-to-date antivirus software, system patches, and compliance with security policies. Devices that do not meet the required criteria are either denied access or placed in a restricted network segment.
Effective identity and access management is at the core of ZTNA with device posture checks. It involves centralized identity verification and authorization, which ensures that only authenticated and authorized users gain access to network resources. Granular access controls are enforced based on user roles and device posture.
¶ Benefits of ZTNA with Device Posture Check
Enhanced Security: By continuously assessing device posture, ZTNA reduces the attack surface and minimizes the risk of unauthorized access.
Improved Compliance: ZTNA helps organizations enforce security policies and compliance requirements effectively.
User Convenience: With secure remote access, ZTNA allows users to access resources conveniently while maintaining a strong security posture.
Reduced Threat Exposure: Real-time threat prevention and detection capabilities help identify and mitigate security threats before they escalate.
¶ How Exium Checks Device Posture?
Exium platform continuously calculates and updates a Trust Quotient (TrustQ) for the user and the device requesting network access by taking into account 4 major factors as shown in the figure below. The users and devices falling short of the target TrustQ are denied access to the system.
¶ What I need to do to get Device Posture activated?
In order to deliver the highest levels of Zero Trust security controls, device posture checks (DPC) are automatically activated when you create a new workspace. To keep DPC active, you do not need to do anything. However, if you like to turn off DPC, you can follow the steps below.
- Navigate to the MSP admin console -> Client Workspace
- Click on Admin console in the left menu bar
- Click on Settings → Advanced shown in the Figure below
- Select “No" next to device posture checks
¶ Conclusion
Zero Trust Network Access with device posture checks is a proactive and adaptive security model that aligns with the modern IT landscape. By continuously verifying the trustworthiness of devices and users, organizations can bolster their security posture, reduce the risk of data breaches, and enable secure remote access for their workforce. Embracing ZTNA with device posture checks is a strategic move towards a more robust and resilient cybersecurity posture in an era of ever-evolving threats.
To learn more about implementing SASE for your organization and explore tailored solutions that meet your unique requirements, contact Exium at partners@exium.net for a consultation or demonstration. If you are ready to get started, check out our testing and onboarding process.