What is Zero Trust Network Access (ZTNA)?
Zero Trust Network Access (ZTNA), is a modern cybersecurity approach that helps to protect data and reduce risk. ZTNA does not see users and devices inside the network as automatically trustworthy, assuming threats are present, ensuring that every access request must be continuously verified and authenticated before access to resources is granted.
ZTNA focuses on user identity and device posture rather than network location, ensuring that access decisions are dynamic, adaptive, and based on real-time assessments of risk. This makes ZTNA an essential component of a modern security strategy, particularly for organisations embracing hybrid work, multi-cloud security environments, or digital transformation initiatives, helping organisations achieve a zero-trust model.
How Does Zero Trust Network Access Ensure Network Security?
When a user attempts to access an application, ZTNA first authenticates their identity using methods like multi-factor authentication (MFA). It then assesses the security of the device they are using, checking for compliance with organisational security policies.
Once identity and device security are confirmed, ZTNA evaluates the context of the access request, such as the user’s location, time of access, and past behaviour. Based on this information, it applies access policies that dictate which resources the user can reach and under what conditions. If the user is approved, ZTNA establishes a secure, encrypted connection to the specific application they are authorised to access without exposing the broader network.
What sets Zero Trust Network Access apart is its continuous monitoring of user behaviour, ensuring that trusted application access remains secure even after initial authentication. If any risk or anomaly is detected, access can be revoked or re-evaluated in real-time. This dynamic, risk-based approach ensures that access is granted only to what’s necessary, enhancing managed network security while allowing flexible, seamless access for users.
Types of Zero Trust Network Access Models
While the core principles of Zero Trust Network Access remain the same, there are different models based on how access is arranged and where the enforcement happens. These models mainly fall into two primary categories, though some vendors blur the lines with hybrid approaches.
- Service-Initiated ZTNA (Inside-Out model) – The most common type of ZTNA, and is sometimes referred to as the “reverse access” model. When a user attempts to access an internal application, the ZTNA provider authenticates and authorises the request, then routes the connection back down to the application via the connector.
- Client-Initiated ZTNA (a.k.a. Device Agent Model) – In this model, the ZTNA client (an agent or app) is installed on the end user’s device and initiates the connection. The platform enforces policy locally on the device or at the point of entry.
- Agentless ZTNA – Some solutions offer agentless access via a browser, especially for third-party contractors or partners.
- Hybrid ZTNA – Many modern providers offer hybrid approaches that combine aspects of both service-initiated and client-initiated models. For example, an organisation might use service-initiated ZTNA for web apps and client-initiated ZTNA for access to internal databases or developer tools.
This flexibility allows companies to tailor access models to different user groups, devices, and applications, ensuring a more adaptable Zero Trust environment.
How to Implement Zero Trust Network Access
Successfully adopting a Zero Trust approach starts with a clear understanding of your organisation’s users, trusted devices, and data flows. The first step is to define access policies by classifying roles, responsibilities, and contextual factors such as location, device health, and time of access to define who needs access to what, under which conditions.
When implementing ZTNA, it’s crucial to integrate identity and access management (IAM) tools, including technologies like multi-factor authentication (MFA), single sign-on (SSO), and identity providers (IdPs) that ensure users verify their identity. For optimal security, these systems should be tightly coupled with your ZTNA solution to enable seamless, secure access.
It’s important to consider the use of Device Posture Checks to evaluate the health and compliance status of a device before granting access, such as antivirus protection.
A well-implemented network security model also includes continuous monitoring, allowing organisations to adjust access rights dynamically based on changing risk conditions or behaviour patterns.
What are the Security Benefits of Using ZTNA?
There are lots of critical security advantages to implementing Zero Trust Network Access.
Greater Visibility and Control for Security Teams
Instead of allowing broad network access, administrators can create fine-tuned access policies, track user behaviour, and detect anomalies in real time. This not only strengthens security but also simplifies compliance and audit processes.
Reduced Cyber Security Attack Surface
Applications are hidden from discovery, minimising opportunities for attackers to find and exploit vulnerabilities.
Stronger Access Authentication
ZTNA reduces the risk of unauthorised access. Requiring identity verification through multi-factor authentication (MFA) and integration with identity providers, it ensures only authorised users and devices gain access.
Continuous Security Monitoring
ZTNA solutions track every access attempt and session in real time, allowing organisations to detect suspicious activity and act immediately.
Choosing the right ZTNA for your Business
Selecting the right network security provider depends on your organisation’s specific needs, but there are a few key criteria to keep in mind.
First, consider how well the solution integrates with your existing infrastructure, whether it’s fully cloud-security based, on-premises, or hybrid cloud security. A good ZTNA platform should be flexible enough to fit your current environment and scale as your organisation grows.
User experience is also critical. The ideal platform balances strong security controls with a streamlined login experience, which improves adoption and reduces support overhead.
Additionally, look for solutions that offer granular policy control, real-time analytics, and built-in threat detection. These features empower your security team to proactively identify risks, respond quickly to incidents, and continuously optimise access policies.
Vendors who Offer this Service
Fortinet FortiClient
FortiClient, part of Fortinet’s FortiSASE and FortiGate NGFW offerings, provides ZTNA capabilities with a focus on endpoint security and network access control. It integrates with Fortinet’s broader security ecosystem to provide comprehensive protection.
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