Best Practices for Integrating ZTNA with Existing Security Infrastructure

Many organizations might not find it easy to integrate existing security infrastructure with zero-trust network access (ZTNA) solutions. At first glance, ZTNA bolsters the safety and flexibility of having a distributed staff. However, implementing such systems can be challenging as they may clash with older systems and existing security protocols.

To begin with, security teams need to take into account the current architecture, potential friction points, and how user experience should be seamless when integrating ZTNA. Thankfully, there are rising tools and methodologies that make this process less complicated in order for companies to gain all the advantages of ZTNA without compromising their present state of security.

To help you through this process smoothly without compromising your cybersecurity strategy, here are some best practices on how you can successfully implement ZTNA using your existing security infrastructure.

Why should businesses implement ZTNA?

Organizations continue to fight against threats, so the need for cybersecurity measures has never been more apparent. Recent statistics show that four out of five (82%) cloud breaches in 2023 involved data stored in cloud environments.

In response to these threats, businesses recognize the value of a zero-trust approach to network security. In the financial sector, for example, nearly two out of five institutions have reported "extensive use" of zero-trust networks, leading to significant cost savings. These organizations have saved an average of $850,000 by implementing zero-trust principles.

The financial benefits of ZTNA extend beyond direct cost savings. Studies show that zero-trust strategies can reduce the overall cost of a data breach by approximately $1 million. This reduction stems from the ability to quickly identify and contain breaches, minimizing their impact and the associated costs of remediation, legal fees, and regulatory fines.

Beyond the financial incentives, ZTNA offers a security framework that addresses the unique challenges posed by today's distributed and cloud-centric business environments. By verifying the identity, device, and context of every user and device before granting access, ZTNA significantly reduces the risk of unauthorized access, data exfiltration, and other cyber threats.

Top ZTNA use cases

ZTNA is highly effective in managing remote access, balancing the flexibility of working from home, and maintaining network security. It allows users to access specific applications while preventing unrestricted access to the entire network, enhancing performance by directly connecting users to hosted resources. It alleviates internal bandwidth issues and ensures that access to applications is restricted by default until the user successfully authenticates.

Furthermore, ZTNA is more advantageous than traditional VPNs and MPLS systems. Unlike MPLS, which necessitates costly hardware installations or VPNs that may provide excessive access, ZTNA simplifies network management and offers controlled access to cloud resources.

Finally, ZTNA facilitates the effective isolation of internal networks. By adopting a least privileged access model, ZTNA minimizes the exposure of internal resources, allowing users only the essential permissions required for their roles. Such a strategy significantly mitigates the potential consequences of data breaches, restricting the amount of data cybercriminals could access and exploit.

How to implement ZTNA for your company

First, it's essential to understand the "Protect Surface" — the critical Data, Applications, Assets, and Services (DAAS) requiring the highest security level. Rather than attempting to map out the entire network, which can be daunting given its continual expansion, focus on identifying these most crucial elements.

Next, closely observe and document how specific applications interact with one another on your network. This insight will help you identify the areas where access controls and security measures need to be implemented, even if you don't have complete visibility into the entire system.

As you map out the "Protect Surface," you can begin to define the architecture of your zero-trust framework. This will involve adding security measures to limit access to your critical network areas.

Utilize the Kipling Method — the "Who? What? When? Where? Why? How?" approach — to determine the criteria for trustworthy access to your protected areas. Ensure that all user-application communication is known and approved by your administrators.

Constant documentation of the activity within your environment is as important. The data will empower your administrators to enhance your zero-trust network security by implementing additional access permissions over time. Monitoring is crucial to the effectiveness of your zero-trust model.

Choosing the right ZTNA solution provider

When selecting a solution provider, consider key factors such as flexibility, scalability, and ease of use. The ideal ZTNA solution should seamlessly integrate with your existing security stack and offer features without compromising performance or user experience.

Look for providers with solid authentication, device trust verification, and granular access controls. Compliance features and reporting capabilities must also be considered to meet regulatory requirements. The right ZTNA solution will be adaptable to your organization's needs, easy to manage, and capable of enhancing your security.

By carefully evaluating these factors, you can select a ZTNA solution that aligns with your requirements and sets the foundation for a successful zero-trust implementation. Such an approach ensures your organization is well-equipped to navigate the evolving cybersecurity landscape.

How NordLayer makes the zero trust journey easier

NordLayer is a ZTNA solution simplifying the transition to a zero-trust framework. As a multi-functional platform, it addresses essential ZTNA requirements by providing secure, segmented access to SaaS applications and network resources from any location.

NordLayer's features include single sign-on (SSO), biometric authentication, virtual private gateways and network segmentation, which are fundamental to ZTNA implementation. NordLayer enables organizations to enforce a zero-trust security across their entire ecosystem, improving security without compromising productivity.

For businesses ready to implement core Identity and Access Management (IAM) functionalities and enhance their cybersecurity stance, NordLayer serves as an ideal partner. Its combined features contribute significantly to a full zero-trust security model transition, making it a valuable ally in building a more secure and resilient digital infrastructure.

About Author: Andrius Buinovskis, head of product at NordLayer, began his IT journey in the early '90s when he exclusively experienced the thrill of technology by accidentally deleting and then reinstalling Windows on his PC. Since then, his passion for IT has grown, leading him to specialize in developing IT services across diverse industries, including banking, telco, aviation, and cyber defense. At NordLayer, Andrius is now deeply involved in strategizing and leading the product development agenda, further trailing his mark in cybersecurity.