homepage
Menu
Open menu
  • Training
    Go one level top Back

    Training

    • Courses

      Build cyber prowess with training from renowned experts

    • Hands-On Simulations

      Hands-on learning exercises keep you at the top of your cyber game

    • Certifications

      Demonstrate cybersecurity expertise with GIAC certifications

    • Ways to Train

      Multiple training options to best fit your schedule and preferred learning style

    • Training Events & Summits

      Expert-led training at locations around the world

    • Free Training Events

      Upcoming workshops, webinars and local events

    • Security Awareness

      Harden enterprise security with end-user and role-based training

    Featured: Solutions for Emerging Risks

    Discover tailored resources that translate emerging threats into actionable strategies

    Risk-Based Solutions

    Can't find what you are looking for?

    Let us help.
    Contact us
  • Learning Paths
    Go one level top Back

    Learning Paths

    • By Focus Area

      Chart your path to job-specific training courses

    • By NICE Framework

      Navigate cybersecurity training through NICE framework roles

    • DoDD 8140 Work Roles

      US DoD 8140 Directive Frameworks

    • By European Skills Framework

      Align your enterprise cyber skills with ECSF profiles

    • By Skills Roadmap

      Find the right training path based on critical skills

    • New to Cyber

      Give your cybersecurity career the right foundation for success

    • Leadership

      Training designed to help security leaders reduce organizational risk

    • Degree and Certificate Programs

      Gain the skills, certifications, and confidence to launch or advance your cybersecurity career.

    Featured

    New to Cyber resources

    Start your career
  • Community Resources
    Go one level top Back

    Community Resources

    Watch & Listen

    • Webinars
    • Live Streams
    • Podcasts

    Read

    • Blog
    • Newsletters
    • White Papers
    • Internet Storm Center

    Download

    • Open Source Tools
    • Posters & Cheat Sheets
    • Policy Templates
    • Summit Presentations
    • SANS Community Benefits

      Connect, learn, and share with other cybersecurity professionals

    • CISO Network

      Engage, challenge, and network with fellow CISOs in this exclusive community of security leaders

  • For Organizations
    Go one level top Back

    For Organizations

    Team Development

    • Why Partner with SANS
    • Group Purchasing
    • Skills & Talent Assessments
    • Private & Custom Training

    Leadership Development

    • Leadership Courses & Accreditation
    • Executive Cybersecurity Exercises
    • CISO Network

    Security Awareness

    • End-User Training
    • Phishing Simulation
    • Specialized Role-Based Training
    • Risk Assessments
    • Public Sector Partnerships

      Explore industry-specific programming and customized training solutions

    • Sponsorship Opportunities

      Sponsor a SANS event or research paper

    Interested in developing a training plan to fit your organization’s needs?

    We're here to help.
    Contact us
  • Talk with an expert
  • Log In
  • Join - it's free
  • Account
    • Account Dashboard
    • Log Out
  1. Home >
  2. Blog >
  3. Best Practices for Securing Your Network with Zero Trust Network Access
SANS_social_88x82.jpg
SANS Institute

Best Practices for Securing Your Network with Zero Trust Network Access

Zero Trust Network Access has emerged from the rapidly evolving world of cybersecurity as a critical strategy for protecting networks.

August 16, 2024

Zero Trust Network Access (ZTNA) has emerged from the rapidly evolving world of cybersecurity as a critical strategy for protecting networks. In a recent webinar, Chris McCormack, Director of Product Marketing at Sophos, provided valuable insights into best practices for securing networks with ZTNA. Hosted by SANS Certified Instructor Matt Bromiley, the session covered how ZTNA can address modern cyber threats and why it is superior to traditional VPNs.

What is Zero Trust Network Access?

ZTNA is a security framework that fundamentally changes how organizations manage access to their networks. Unlike traditional security models that implicitly trust users once they are inside the network perimeter, ZTNA operates on the principle of “never trust, always verify.” This means that every access request, whether coming from inside or outside the network must be authenticated and authorized before access is granted.

Understanding Modern Cyber Attacks

Chris McCormack began by explaining how modern cyber-attacks typically exploit unknown vulnerabilities and compromised credentials. These attacks often target old VPN clients, remote desktop systems, and unpatched software. “Old VPN clients or servers that are managing incoming VPN connections are becoming priority targets,” he noted, highlighting the increased risk due to the widespread adoption of remote work.

Attackers also use compromised credentials to gain unauthorized access to networks. “Brute force hacking attempts are successful in penetrating systems with poor passwords and the complete lack of multi-factor authentication (MFA),” Chris explained. Once inside, attackers move laterally within the network, using legitimate tools like PowerShell to avoid detection.

Strategies to Mitigate Cyber Threats

To combat these threats, Chris outlined several strategies:

  1. Reducing the Attack Surface: This involves keeping systems patched and minimizing the number of exposed systems. Ensuring robust patch management is crucial in preventing attackers from exploiting known vulnerabilities.
  2. Implementing Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA): MFA is essential for protecting against credential abuse. “You need strong passwords, and you need good next-gen endpoint technology as a backup defense,” Chris emphasized.
  3. Network Segmentation: Segmenting the network both physically and virtually makes it difficult for attackers to move around undetected. “Ensure there’s both software virtual and physical network segmentation of assets in your network,” he advised.
  4. Active Threat Hunting Tools: Traditional AV detection techniques often fail to spot legitimate tools used maliciously. Active threat hunting tools like XDR (Extended Detection and Response) and NDR (Network Detection and Response) are essential for identifying suspicious behaviors.

The Role of ZTNA in Enhancing Security

ZTNA has become a critical layer of protection against modern attacks, offering a superior alternative to traditional VPNs. Chris explained that ZTNA connects users only to specific applications or systems rather than providing broad network access. “ZTNA only connects a user to a very specific application or system, not the whole network,” he clarified.

Unlike VPNs, ZTNA assesses the health of the end user’s device before granting access. This ensures that compromised devices cannot connect to corporate networks, thereby reducing the risk of lateral movement by attackers. “ZTNA provides much better security than remote access VPN,” Chris asserted, pointing out that it removes vulnerable infrastructure and incorporates device health checks.

Best Practices for Implementing ZTNA

Chris outlined best practices for implementing ZTNA:

  1. Replace Legacy VPN Infrastructure: ZTNA should replace old remote access VPNs to eliminate vulnerabilities in clients and servers. “ZTNA uses a simpler, lighter agent concept that is more secure,” he noted.
  2. Integrate ZTNA with Endpoint Security: Ensure that your ZTNA solution is fully integrated with endpoint AV to prevent compromised devices from connecting.
  3. Use Strong Firewall and Email Security Solutions: Protect against phishing and malicious payloads that can exploit unknown vulnerabilities.
  4. Stay on Top of User Credential Management: Implement MFA and manage user credentials diligently to prevent abuse.
  5. Leverage Network Segmentation: Use firewalls, switches, and wireless access points to segment the network and prevent lateral movement.
  6. Deploy Advanced Threat Detection Tools: Utilize XDR and NDR tools to detect and respond to suspicious activities that traditional security measures might miss.

Sophos Solutions for Network Security

Chris highlighted how Sophos can help organizations implement these best practices. Sophos offers a comprehensive and integrated cybersecurity platform managed from a single cloud console, Sophos Central. This platform includes ZTNA for secure application access, network firewalls, wireless access points, and endpoint security products that work together seamlessly.

“Our network security platform includes ZTNA for secure application access,” Chris said, emphasizing the integration of ZTNA gateway functionality into Sophos firewalls. This eliminates the need for additional on-premises deployments and ensures secure access to apps and systems.

Sophos also offers managed detection and response (MDR) services, providing 24/7 monitoring and expert response to cyber-attacks. “If you don’t want to build a SOC team that does threat hunting, we offer this managed detection and response service,” Chris explained, making it clear that Sophos aims to simplify cybersecurity management for organizations.

Chris McCormack’s presentation underscored the importance of adopting ZTNA as a critical component of network security. By replacing traditional VPNs with ZTNA, organizations can significantly enhance their security posture, prevent unauthorized access, and protect against sophisticated cyber threats. With comprehensive solutions like those offered by Sophos, organizations can implement best practices, integrate security measures, and leverage advanced threat detection tools to safeguard their networks in today’s complex cybersecurity landscape.

IMPLEMENTING A ZERO TRUST ARCHITECTURE is not a one-size-fits-all solution; it requires careful planning, implementation, and ongoing management. For those interested in delving deeper into the subject, SANS has recently released a Zero Trust strategy guide. This document is an excellent resource for anyone looking to learn more about the principles, implementation strategies, and benefits of adopting a Zero Trust Architecture in their organization.

Share:
TwitterLinkedInFacebook
Copy url Url was copied to clipboard
Subscribe to SANS Newsletters
Receive curated news, vulnerabilities, & security awareness tips
United States
Canada
United Kingdom
Spain
Belgium
Denmark
Norway
Netherlands
Australia
India
Japan
Singapore
Afghanistan
Aland Islands
Albania
Algeria
American Samoa
Andorra
Angola
Anguilla
Antarctica
Antigua and Barbuda
Argentina
Armenia
Aruba
Austria
Azerbaijan
Bahamas
Bahrain
Bangladesh
Barbados
Belarus
Belize
Benin
Bermuda
Bhutan
Bolivia
Bonaire, Sint Eustatius, and Saba
Bosnia And Herzegovina
Botswana
Bouvet Island
Brazil
British Indian Ocean Territory
Brunei Darussalam
Bulgaria
Burkina Faso
Burundi
Cambodia
Cameroon
Cape Verde
Cayman Islands
Central African Republic
Chad
Chile
China
Christmas Island
Cocos (Keeling) Islands
Colombia
Comoros
Cook Islands
Costa Rica
Cote D'ivoire
Croatia (Local Name: Hrvatska)
Curacao
Cyprus
Czech Republic
Democratic Republic of the Congo
Djibouti
Dominica
Dominican Republic
East Timor
Ecuador
Egypt
El Salvador
Equatorial Guinea
Eritrea
Estonia
Eswatini
Ethiopia
Falkland Islands (Malvinas)
Faroe Islands
Fiji
Finland
France
French Guiana
French Polynesia
French Southern Territories
Gabon
Gambia
Georgia
Germany
Ghana
Gibraltar
Greece
Greenland
Grenada
Guadeloupe
Guam
Guatemala
Guernsey
Guinea
Guinea-Bissau
Guyana
Haiti
Heard And McDonald Islands
Honduras
Hong Kong
Hungary
Iceland
Indonesia
Iraq
Ireland
Isle of Man
Israel
Italy
Jamaica
Jersey
Jordan
Kazakhstan
Kenya
Kiribati
Korea, Republic Of
Kosovo
Kuwait
Kyrgyzstan
Lao People's Democratic Republic
Latvia
Lebanon
Lesotho
Liberia
Liechtenstein
Lithuania
Luxembourg
Macau
Madagascar
Malawi
Malaysia
Maldives
Mali
Malta
Marshall Islands
Martinique
Mauritania
Mauritius
Mayotte
Mexico
Micronesia, Federated States Of
Moldova, Republic Of
Monaco
Mongolia
Montenegro
Montserrat
Morocco
Mozambique
Myanmar
Namibia
Nauru
Nepal
Netherlands Antilles
New Caledonia
New Zealand
Nicaragua
Niger
Nigeria
Niue
Norfolk Island
North Macedonia
Northern Mariana Islands
Oman
Pakistan
Palau
Palestine
Panama
Papua New Guinea
Paraguay
Peru
Philippines
Pitcairn
Poland
Portugal
Puerto Rico
Qatar
Reunion
Romania
Russian Federation
Rwanda
Saint Bartholemy
Saint Kitts And Nevis
Saint Lucia
Saint Martin
Saint Vincent And The Grenadines
Samoa
San Marino
Sao Tome And Principe
Saudi Arabia
Senegal
Serbia
Seychelles
Sierra Leone
Sint Maarten
Slovakia
Slovenia
Solomon Islands
South Africa
South Georgia and the South Sandwich Islands
South Sudan
Sri Lanka
St. Helena
St. Pierre And Miquelon
Suriname
Svalbard And Jan Mayen Islands
Sweden
Switzerland
Taiwan
Tajikistan
Tanzania, United Republic Of
Thailand
Togo
Tokelau
Tonga
Trinidad And Tobago
Tunisia
Turkey
Turkmenistan
Turks And Caicos Islands
Tuvalu
Uganda
Ukraine
United Arab Emirates
United States Minor Outlying Islands
Uruguay
Uzbekistan
Vanuatu
Vatican City State
Venezuela
Vietnam
Virgin Islands (British)
Virgin Islands (U.S.)
Wallis And Futuna Islands
Western Sahara
Yemen
Zambia
Zimbabwe

By providing this information, you agree to the processing of your personal data by SANS as described in our Privacy Policy.

This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.

Tags:
  • Cybersecurity Insights

Related Content

Blog
SANS_-_Blog_-_Summary_of_the_New_SEC_Rules_and_Regulations_-_340x340.jpg
Cybersecurity Insights
September 25, 2023
Summary of the New SEC Rules and Regulations
Deciphering the details of the new mandates by Security and Exchange Commission
Lee_Kim.jpg
Lee Kim
read more
Blog
SCA_-_Blog_-_SANS_Cyber_Academy_Awards_108_Students_Scholarships_to_Launch_Careers_in_Cybersecurity_-_340x340.jpg
Cybersecurity Insights
September 14, 2023
SANS Cyber Academy Awards 108 Students Scholarships to Launch Careers in Cybersecurity
SANS continues its push toward diversity of the cyber workforce.
SANS_social_88x82.jpg
SANS Institute
read more
Blog
Blog - Network Engineer Salary Skills and Career Path
Cybersecurity Insights
August 9, 2023
Network Engineer Salary, Skills, and Career Path
Learn what it takes to become a network engineer.
thomas.jpg
Thomas Wolfe
read more
  • Company
  • Mission
  • Instructors
  • About
  • FAQ
  • Press
  • Contact Us
  • Careers
  • Policies
  • Training Programs
  • Work Study
  • Academies & Scholarships
  • Public Sector Partnerships
  • Law Enforcement
  • SkillsFuture Singapore
  • Degree Programs
  • Get Involved
  • Join the Community
  • Become an Instructor
  • Become a Sponsor
  • Speak at a Summit
  • Join the CISO Network
  • Award Programs
  • Partner Portal
Subscribe to SANS Newsletters
Receive curated news, vulnerabilities, & security awareness tips
United States
Canada
United Kingdom
Spain
Belgium
Denmark
Norway
Netherlands
Australia
India
Japan
Singapore
Afghanistan
Aland Islands
Albania
Algeria
American Samoa
Andorra
Angola
Anguilla
Antarctica
Antigua and Barbuda
Argentina
Armenia
Aruba
Austria
Azerbaijan
Bahamas
Bahrain
Bangladesh
Barbados
Belarus
Belize
Benin
Bermuda
Bhutan
Bolivia
Bonaire, Sint Eustatius, and Saba
Bosnia And Herzegovina
Botswana
Bouvet Island
Brazil
British Indian Ocean Territory
Brunei Darussalam
Bulgaria
Burkina Faso
Burundi
Cambodia
Cameroon
Cape Verde
Cayman Islands
Central African Republic
Chad
Chile
China
Christmas Island
Cocos (Keeling) Islands
Colombia
Comoros
Cook Islands
Costa Rica
Cote D'ivoire
Croatia (Local Name: Hrvatska)
Curacao
Cyprus
Czech Republic
Democratic Republic of the Congo
Djibouti
Dominica
Dominican Republic
East Timor
Ecuador
Egypt
El Salvador
Equatorial Guinea
Eritrea
Estonia
Eswatini
Ethiopia
Falkland Islands (Malvinas)
Faroe Islands
Fiji
Finland
France
French Guiana
French Polynesia
French Southern Territories
Gabon
Gambia
Georgia
Germany
Ghana
Gibraltar
Greece
Greenland
Grenada
Guadeloupe
Guam
Guatemala
Guernsey
Guinea
Guinea-Bissau
Guyana
Haiti
Heard And McDonald Islands
Honduras
Hong Kong
Hungary
Iceland
Indonesia
Iraq
Ireland
Isle of Man
Israel
Italy
Jamaica
Jersey
Jordan
Kazakhstan
Kenya
Kiribati
Korea, Republic Of
Kosovo
Kuwait
Kyrgyzstan
Lao People's Democratic Republic
Latvia
Lebanon
Lesotho
Liberia
Liechtenstein
Lithuania
Luxembourg
Macau
Madagascar
Malawi
Malaysia
Maldives
Mali
Malta
Marshall Islands
Martinique
Mauritania
Mauritius
Mayotte
Mexico
Micronesia, Federated States Of
Moldova, Republic Of
Monaco
Mongolia
Montenegro
Montserrat
Morocco
Mozambique
Myanmar
Namibia
Nauru
Nepal
Netherlands Antilles
New Caledonia
New Zealand
Nicaragua
Niger
Nigeria
Niue
Norfolk Island
North Macedonia
Northern Mariana Islands
Oman
Pakistan
Palau
Palestine
Panama
Papua New Guinea
Paraguay
Peru
Philippines
Pitcairn
Poland
Portugal
Puerto Rico
Qatar
Reunion
Romania
Russian Federation
Rwanda
Saint Bartholemy
Saint Kitts And Nevis
Saint Lucia
Saint Martin
Saint Vincent And The Grenadines
Samoa
San Marino
Sao Tome And Principe
Saudi Arabia
Senegal
Serbia
Seychelles
Sierra Leone
Sint Maarten
Slovakia
Slovenia
Solomon Islands
South Africa
South Georgia and the South Sandwich Islands
South Sudan
Sri Lanka
St. Helena
St. Pierre And Miquelon
Suriname
Svalbard And Jan Mayen Islands
Sweden
Switzerland
Taiwan
Tajikistan
Tanzania, United Republic Of
Thailand
Togo
Tokelau
Tonga
Trinidad And Tobago
Tunisia
Turkey
Turkmenistan
Turks And Caicos Islands
Tuvalu
Uganda
Ukraine
United Arab Emirates
United States Minor Outlying Islands
Uruguay
Uzbekistan
Vanuatu
Vatican City State
Venezuela
Vietnam
Virgin Islands (British)
Virgin Islands (U.S.)
Wallis And Futuna Islands
Western Sahara
Yemen
Zambia
Zimbabwe

By providing this information, you agree to the processing of your personal data by SANS as described in our Privacy Policy.

This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.
  • Privacy Policy
  • Terms and Conditions
  • Do Not Sell/Share My Personal Information
  • Contact
  • Careers
© 2025 The Escal Institute of Advanced Technologies, Inc. d/b/a SANS Institute. Our Terms and Conditions detail our trademark and copyright rights. Any unauthorized use is expressly prohibited.
  • Twitter
  • Facebook
  • Youtube
  • LinkedIn