Enhancing security through IT modernization

Zero trust implementation and IT modernization are interconnected concepts that enhance cybersecurity and operational efficiency, respectively. When organizations undertake them together, as a coordinated initiative, the benefits can multiply well beyond what either one alone can do. 

IT modernization goals typically include cloud adoption, improved agility, compliance and the integration of advanced technologies. These things demand a heightened level of security and, in turn, provide an ideal foundation for a zero trust framework. 

Understanding zero trust

Zero trust is a security model that assumes that threats come from inside the network as well as from beyond. It assumes the network has been breached, and therefore, treats any request for access to a network or resource as a potential threat subject to verification.

Implementing a zero trust architecture involves adopting technologies and practices that support these principles. This is where IT modernization comes in.  

Adding zero trust to IT modernization 

The goals of IT modernization usually include improving efficiency, agility, and scalability, thereby reducing costs, enhancing security, and enabling digital transformation. Organizations accomplish these goals by replacing legacy systems and adopting new software, migrating to a cloud or hybrid arrangement, and automating processes. It often also includes adopting powerful new and emerging technologies such as advanced analytics and artificial intelligence (AI). Adversaries are modernizing too, and attacks are always becoming more sophisticated, challenging the ability of defensive measures to keep up. Meanwhile, the changes that come with modernization efforts, as important and powerful as they are, can also open new vulnerabilities and risks. 

Zero trust provides the robust security framework that agencies need to guard against these threats. It aligns with the goals of IT modernization by ensuring that security is integrated into every aspect of the IT environment. 

• Cloud adoption: IT modernization frequently involves migrating to cloud services. Zero trust principles are particularly well-suited for cloud environments, where traditional perimeter-based security models are less effective. Zero trust in the cloud often involves adopting software-defined networks and cloud security posture monitoring to secure cloud resources and ensures that access controls are consistently applied.

• Agility and flexibility: Both zero trust and IT modernization aim to create more agile and flexible IT environments. Zero trust supports this by enabling secure access from any location and device, which is essential for modern, distributed workforces and dynamic IT infrastructures. 

• Compliance and risk management: Zero trust helps organizations achieve compliance and reduce risk by continuously verifying and enforcing access controls and continuously monitoring for suspicious activity. 

• Integration of advanced technologies: IT modernization may include the adoption of advanced technologies such as AI and machine learning, along with cloud native technologies such as serverless workloads and Internet of Things applications. Zero trust provides a security framework that can accommodate these technologies, ensuring that they are securely integrated and managed. 

Zero trust migration adoption is a critical component of IT modernization efforts. By adopting a zero trust approach, organizations can enhance their security posture, support cloud adoption, improve agility and integrate advanced technologies securely. 

For more insight into zero trust, visit www.cgi.com/zero-trust.