Summary

Before remote working a company’s perimeters for security were the physical office and a corporate Firewall for safety.

Nowadays, a company’s security perimeter is the user’s local device (Laptop/desktops), whether they are working in the office, at home or in a coffee shop. The birth of hybrid working is now truly active.

Because of this, companies need to use a Zero Trust Architecture or security framework.

What is the Zero Trust security framework?

Zero Trust is a security framework requiring all users, whether in or outside the organisation’s network, to be authenticated, authorised, and continuously validated for security configuration and posture before being granted or keeping access to applications and data.

The Zero Trust Architecture basic principle is not to trust anything!

The principles are to verify explicitly, make sure the users have “Least Privileged Access” to systems and to assume a breach will happen on your network (Cloud or On-Premise).

Zero Trust starts with locking down the individual user’s authentication, reducing user’s access permissions to IT systems (taking the less privileged approach) and then continuously monitoring access.

Below is a diagram that outlines the Zero Trust Architecture.

Why should my organisation use the Zero Trust security framework?

The benefits of deploying the Zero Trust security framework include:

• Productivity everywhere – empower your users to work securely anywhere and anytime, on any device – without disrupting the end user experience.

• Risk Mitigation – close security gaps and minimise risk of lateral movement.

• Threat Detection – increased speed of threat detection and remediation.

• Data Protection – all data is kept safe and secure – complying with data regulations.

Deploying a new security model, such as the Zero Trust security framework, that embraces the hybrid workplace, ensures that people, devices, apps, and data are secure, wherever they’re located.

Additional Information

Microsoft are pioneers of the Zero Trust security framework.

Take a look at their webpage for further information.

Further Information

If you have any questions about this or need assistance, then please contact the GCC Group Support Team on 0345 260 1151 or servicedesk@gccgroup.co.uk

What is flexible work?

Cloud technology has made it possible for employees to work remotely and collaborate with colleagues from any device, in any location.

Facilitating remote work expands the talent pool for recruitment on a global scale, rather than just individuals within commuting distance.

From access to cloud-based apps and software, to communication and collaboration tools, flexible working allows employees to work from home, a café, or even a beach, as long as there’s Wi-Fi.

Increased connectivity can help individuals to achieve a better work-life balance – flexible working arrangements empower employees to fit work around their daily lives, not the other way around.

Speak to us today to find out how which Microsoft applications could be deployed in your business.