A Zero Trust Security Framework for Cloud-Based Enterprise Systems in Hybrid Work Environments

Abstract

The cloud-based enterprise applications, and the work-from-home model adopted by organizations today have significantly expanded the security perimeter of an organization. A layered Zero Trust security framework is proposed for continuous identity verification, multi-factor authentication, device/workload trust assessment, least-privilege access, microsegmentation, application/API security, data security, and monitoring. The framework proposes to incorporate a contextual risk assessment based on user identity, device posture, resource sensitivity, session context, and security-related telemetry. An Enterprise Use Case has been described to highlight how Zero Trust security framework can help in restricting access, minimizing excessive privilege, restricting lateral movement, and enhanced security visibility in a cloud-hybrid environment. The paper also provides a comparison of Perimeter Security models, existing Zero Trust models, and the proposed Zero Trust security framework. The future research areas have also been outlined which include behavioral analytics, intelligent threat detection, risk assessment and adaptive security mechanisms.