How Identity and Access Management Fits Into Zero Trust

“Never trust, always verify.”

If you’ve heard anything about zero trust network access (ZTNA), you’ve likely heard the above phrase. Verifying identity is at the crux of zero trust, and identity and access management is how you make it happen. But isn’t it enough to use multi-factor authentication? Not exactly. In this post, we’ll dive into everything you need to know about the role of identity and access management in zero trust architectures and environments. 

Introduction to zero trust Identity and Access Management (IAM)

Let’s face it: there is no shortage of cyberattacks in the news. Threat actors are looking for ways to compromise your company’s security – and small or mid-size businesses are not immune to these threats. In fact, 61% of SMBs reported being hit by a successful cyberattack in 2023.

The traditional security model – which relied heavily on perimeter defenses like firewalls – is no longer sufficient. This is where zero trust Identity and Access Management (IAM) comes into play. Zero trust IAM is the discipline that ensures every user, device, and application are continuously verified before gaining access to resources. In doing so, the goal is to mitigate the risks associated with data breaches and cyber-attacks.

What is the difference between zero trust Identity and Access Management (IAM) and Zero Trust Network Access (ZTNA)? 

ZTNA and IAM seem quite similar on the surface level.

According to Gartner, “Zero trust network access (ZTNA) is a product or service that creates an identity- and context-based, logical access boundary around an application or set of applications.” 

Doing this hides the apps from discovery and restricts access using a trust broker and a set of named entities. The broker verifies users based on identity, context, and policies — and stops lateral movement in the network. Because application assets are removed from public visibility, potential attack surface is reduced. 

However, ZTNA is not one singular product or service, but is a collection of services and solutions that work together to accomplish the principles of zero trust and least privilege.

One such technology that works in tandem with others to achieve ZTNA is IAM. 

Gartner defines IAM as “a security and business discipline that includes multiple technologies and business processes to help the right people or machines to access the right assets at the right time for the right reasons, while keeping unauthorized access and fraud at bay.”

Unlike traditional IAM devices or technology, which typically rely on a one-time verification at the network boundary, zero trust IAM requires the user to continually verify. 

In other words, IAM is the discipline that enforces zero trust principles. 

The evolution of Identity and Access Management

Initially, IAM systems were designed to manage user identities and control access within the boundaries of a corporate network. However, with the boom in cloud computing, mobile devices, and remote work, the scope of IAM has expanded to include external users and resources. This evolution set the stage for the adoption of zero trust principles, which are essential for protecting distributed and dynamic environments.

Why zero trust is crucial for modern security

Zero trust addresses the limitations of traditional security models by assuming there are threats both inside and outside of the network. Zero trust requires strict verification of all access requests, regardless of their origin – deploying least privilege access so bad actors can’t gain access to an entire network just because they have the compromised credentials of one person. This reduces the risk of unauthorized access and ensures that security measures are applied consistently across the entire network.

Core principles of zero trust IAM

The core principles of IAM do not differ greatly from those of zero trust as a whole. These principles require businesses to take the following steps. 

Verify explicitly

To verify explicitly means that every access request is thoroughly checked and authenticated. This involves validating the user’s identity, the health of the device, and the context of the request. Only after these criteria are met is access granted. This also means that you cannot assume that just because a request is coming from a previously trusted device or IP address, that it does not need to be verified. 

Use least privilege access

Least privilege access, or role-based access control, means that there is not a single employee – even those at the top of the corporate ladder – who has access to every single system. Instead, different roles will have access to different technologies necessary to complete their job functions. This simple measure ensures that users are granted the minimum level of access necessary to perform their duties, thereby limiting the potential damage that can be caused by compromised accounts or malicious insiders. In other words, even if someone is a victim of a phishing attempt and their information is compromised, the bad actor would not be able to access every application being used by a company. 

Assume breach

Assuming that there has been a breach is a fundamental principle of zero trust. This involves designing security measures with the assumption that an attacker has already infiltrated the network. This mindset, however stressful it may seem on the surface, encourages the implementation of robust monitoring, rapid incident response, and continuous improvement of security practices.

Components of zero trust IAM

Now that we’ve covered what zero trust IAM is and why it matters, let’s dive into the technical details you need to know. There are several components of IAM that you can incorporate into your security strategy, but you don’t necessarily have to use them all. These include: 

Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)

MFA tools add an extra layer of security by requiring users to provide multiple forms of verification before accessing resources. This significantly reduces the risk of account compromise due to stolen credentials. This can be done through a third-party authentication tool. 

Single Sign-On (SSO)

SSO simplifies the user experience by allowing users to authenticate once and gain access to multiple applications. This should be used in conjunction with MFA and may also use SAML. SSO not only enhances convenience but also improves security by reducing password fatigue.

Identity Federation

Identity Federation allows different organizations to share identity information, enabling seamless access to resources across organizational boundaries. This is particularly useful for businesses that collaborate with partners and vendors.

Privileged Access Management (PAM)

PAM involves managing and monitoring privileged accounts that have elevated access to critical systems. For example, if you have someone in IT with access to multiple critical systems, you may want to implement PAM. Utilizing PAM helps prevent misuse of privileged credentials and ensures that high-risk actions are closely monitored.

Continuous monitoring and analytics

Continuous monitoring and analytics involve the real-time collection and analysis of data to detect and respond to security incidents. This may take a bit more effort and to some extent may be automated by various types of software or features, but this will help you assess user behavior and access patterns so that organizations can identify and mitigate threats more effectively.

Implementing Zero Trust IAM for SMBs

We know what you might be thinking: “This all sounds great, but how do we put this into real-world use?” 

To start, you’ll need to understand that IAM vendors are often separate from your VPN provider (but should still be compatible). Once you’ve considered your VPN vendor and your IAM options, our step-by-step guide can help. 

Step-by-step implementation guide

Implementing zero trust IAM can be broken into a few simple steps, which are fairly similar to getting started with ZTNA as a whole:

• Start by conducting a thorough assessment of your current security posture. Identify critical assets, users, and access points. Use this time to think like an attacker. Where are weak points? Where are strengths? Who has access to which platforms?
• Next, strengthen the authentication process by implementing MFA and SSO. Remember, no device is trusted when it comes to zero trust; you must always verify.  
• After you’ve set up MFA and SSO, segment user groups and user access. At this point, you can deploy PAM solutions to control privileged access. 
• Finally, integrate continuous monitoring and analytics to detect anomalies. You may do this through software you already use, like your VPN software, or you might do this through a combination of manual and automated means. Appoint specific people to own the monitoring portion of your strategy as well so nothing can fall through the cracks. 

Key technologies and tools

Few, if any, providers exist who can provide all aspects of ZTNA. That’s because IAM and zero trust are not able to be turned on with the flip of a switch. That would be like saying that you can implement all cybersecurity in one toggle – it isn’t going to happen. (So sorry if you had hoped otherwise, we do hate to burst your bubble.) However, there are a few tools and technologies you can combine to achieve your zero trust goals. 

Identity Providers (IdP)

Identity Providers authenticate and manage user identities, ensuring that only authorized users gain access to resources. Examples include Microsoft Azure AD and Okta.

Access Gateways

Access Gateways control access to applications and resources, enforcing zero trust principles. They act as intermediaries that verify and authenticate access requests.

Security Information and Event Management (SIEM) systems

SIEM systems collect and analyze security data from across the network. They provide valuable insights into potential threats and help organizations respond to incidents swiftly.

Challenges and considerations for small businesses

When you have an enterprise-sized business with additional resources and people to implement new technologies and strategies, this doesn’t seem very large of an undertaking. But, when you have a smaller business with a team who wears many hats and fills many roles, it’s a different story. There are a few things to consider as you work through ZTNA implementation and IAM practices. 

Managing change and user adoption

Let’s be real with each other: one of the primary challenges in implementing zero trust IAM is getting people on board with using it, especially when it requires them to take additional steps. User adoption is tough when you have to move quickly. That’s why it’s essential to communicate the benefits of the new security measures and provide training to help users adapt.

Integrating with existing systems

Integrating zero trust IAM with existing systems can be complex. It requires careful planning and execution to ensure seamless integration without disrupting business operations. Whether looking into SAML for SSO or another type of technology, you’ll need to make sure your systems integrate seamlessly. 

Scalability concerns

Scalability is a critical consideration for small businesses – after all, as you grow you don’t want to be strapped into costly solutions that won’t grow with you. Ensure that the chosen zero trust IAM solutions can scale with your business as it grows.  

Regulatory compliance

Compliance with regulatory requirements is another challenge. For example, you may need to remain SOC 2 compliant, which means you need additional security measures. Implementing zero trust IAM can help businesses meet these strict compliance standards by providing robust security measures and audit trails.

Work-from-home considerations

With the rise of remote work, ensuring secure remote access for no matter where your team is located is a game-changer. Zero trust IAM provides the necessary controls to secure remote access and protect sensitive data, even if they are on an unsecured network at a coffee shop or connecting from the airport. 

Future trends in zero trust IAM for small businesses

We mentioned earlier that zero trust IAM has evolved, and that evolution is not over. In the future, we believe the following technologies and trends will grow: 

Artificial intelligence and machine learning in IAM

You can’t log onto LinkedIn or any news apps without seeing a headline about AI lately – and for good reason. Regardless of whether you think AI is not all that it seems, AI and machine learning are poised to revolutionize IAM by enabling more sophisticated threat detection and response capabilities. These technologies can analyze vast amounts of data to identify patterns and anomalies that may indicate security threats.

The role of biometrics

Biometric authentication, such as fingerprint and facial recognition, is becoming increasingly popular. What once seemed futuristic as it was added to our mobile devices has become the standard on laptops and other pieces of technology. Biometrics offer a higher level of security and convenience compared to traditional authentication methods, and when used in conjunction with MFA can offer better security and protection overall. 

Decentralized identity and blockchain

Decentralized identity solutions, powered by blockchain technology, provide users with greater control over their identities. This emerging trend promises to enhance privacy and security in the digital world.

Conclusion

Zero trust and IAM are just the beginning when it comes to security of your business, yet they are a foundational and pivotal piece of the puzzle. By verifying every access request, using least privilege access, and assuming breach, organizations can significantly enhance their security posture. Leveraging technologies like MFA, SSO, and continuous monitoring, small businesses can implement zero trust IAM effectively. As the landscape continues to evolve, you’ll need to verify customers, workforce users, and IoT devices without disrupting user experience. 

With OpenVPN, you can implement the essential tenets of ZTNA while protecting your remote or hybrid workforce through encryption – all without slowing their internet speeds. Get started for free today or check out our interactive product tour on how to enforce zero trust with CloudConnexa. You can also take a look at OpenVPN pricing to see how you can save on your secure remote access and network security strategy. 

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