In network security, what does "zero trust" imply?

The concept of "zero trust" in network security fundamentally shifts the traditional approach to security by asserting that no individual or system, whether inside or outside the network, should be automatically trusted. Instead, it emphasizes that trust must be earned and continuously validated. This means that every user and device attempting to access network resources must provide verification of their identity and the security of their systems, regardless of their location within the network.

Continuous verification involves multiple factors, including user credentials, device health, behavioral analysis, and context around the access request. By applying this principle, organizations can mitigate risks associated with insider threats and the potential for compromised credentials, as trust is never assumed based solely on a user's position on the network.

The other options suggest more traditional security postures. For instance, the idea that all users are trusted within the network contradicts the zero trust paradigm, which inherently questions that assumption. Likewise, limiting security measures to external threats overlooks the very real risks posed by internal users and systems. Finally, assigning access strictly based on user location simplifies the complexity of verifying identity and security posture, which is central to the zero trust approach.