EXECUTIVE SUMMARY:
The zero trust framework is a cornerstone of modern cyber security threat prevention and defense architectures. At its core, zero trust calls for continuous verification of every request and transaction within a network — regardless of source or destination.
As cyber threats take on new characteristics, some organizations are looking to artificial intelligence in order to support the efficacy of zero trust implementations.
In this article, we’ll explore how AI can enhance zero trust initiatives. In particular, we’ll dive into how AI can render zero trust more capable and competent, providing practical insights that your organization can put into action.
How AI can complement zero trust
1. Adaptive access controls. Within zero trust, AI may be able to shift security from a more static operation to one that’s particularly dynamic and adaptive.
AI-powered zero trust access controls can flexibly modify and customize permissions based on immediate evaluations of users. The AI can intelligently ascertain whether to authorize or restrict users by reviewing contextual factors, such as user location, device status and behavioral trends.
In turn, this ensures that zero trust is continuously enforced, while simultaneously reducing administrative burdens and human error rates.
2. Privileged access management. With the integration of AI, privileged access management becomes more vigilant and effective. Employing AI-powered monitoring means that organizations can better enforce strict access controls and granular permissions – core tenants of the zero trust framework.
3. Advanced analytics. AI-based tools can aggregate and analyze information from a wide breadth of sources at near-lightning speed. In turn, CISOs can identify anomalous behavior at an expedited rate, leading to faster detection and mitigation of potential security breaches within the zero trust architecture.
4. Automated incident response. In a zero trust environment, where every access request is carefully reviewed, but the margin for error is non-zero, in the event that an incident manifests, AI can assist with incident response.
Further details
As time wears on, organizations are highly likely to integrate AI into zero trust architectures in a range of different ways. Exactly how remains to be seen, of course.
Nonetheless, even at this nascent stage, organizations can leverage AI within the zero trust framework to achieve a more dynamic, intelligent, and ultimately, more secure IT environment.
For further insights into artificial intelligence and cyber security, please see CyberTalk.org’s past coverage. For information about GenAI and zero trust, please click here.
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