Zero Trust Architecture for Modern Enterprise Networks: A Practical Solution Framework
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.63282/3050-9246.IJETCSIT-V7I2P116Keywords:
Zero Trust Architecture, Cybersecurity, Authentication, Encryption, Micro-Segmentation, Identity and Access Management, Digital Transformation, Cyber Threats, Enterprise Security, Post-Quantum Cryptography, AI in Security, System ArchitectureAbstract
In the evolving landscape of enterprise networks marked by increasing cloud adoption, remote workforces, and sophisticated cyber threats traditional perimeter-based security models are no longer sufficient to protect organizational assets. Zero Trust Architecture (ZTA) has emerged as a transformative cybersecurity paradigm that replaces implicit trust with continuous verification and strict access control. Guided by the principles of “never trust, always verify” and least privilege, ZTA enforces rigorous identity management, micro-segmentation, and continuous monitoring across users, devices, and workloads. This paper provides an in-depth analysis of ZTA’s core principles, architectural components, and implementation best practices, emphasizing the importance of comprehensive asset visibility, strong identity and access management (IAM), and phased adoption strategies. Through a synthesis of recent literature and industry frameworks, the study examines how ZTA addresses key security challenges such as insider threats, lateral movement, and data breaches. It further explores emerging directions in ZTA evolution, including integration with 5G, IoT, edge computing, artificial intelligence, machine learning, post-quantum cryptography, and blockchain technologies. The findings aim to offer a holistic understanding of ZTA and actionable insights for organizations seeking to strengthen their cybersecurity resilience in an increasingly dynamic digital environment.
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