The Zero Trust Security Advantage for CSPs: A Foundation for a Secure Digital Ecosystem
Cybersecurity demands are evolving rapidly as the way we conduct business shifts. Companies that fail to adapt to these changes are at risk of being hacked and suffering a data breach. In the past, communication service providers (CSPs) and other businesses relied on perimeter security architecture: using a border (firewall) to protect the network and enterprise data. Now, increases in remote workforces and wider use of cloud and edge computing mean more users and devices are working outside that border. Perimeter-based defenses alone are not sufficient.
Why Is Zero Trust Security Important for 5G and Digital Ecosystems?
5G and digital ecosystems are creating new opportunities for businesses, but they also introduce new security risks. 5G has a huge capacity for connections, which means there are more potential entry points for attackers. Digital ecosystems involve multiple partners sharing data, which makes it difficult to maintain a consistent security approach across the entire ecosystem.
In the first blog in this series, we described six components of 5G Zero Trust architecture. Zero Trust is critically important in a 5G world. In this blog, we'll compare Zero Trust security to the standard perimeter-based approach . We'll also discuss how CSPs can defend against the greater security risks introduced by their collaboration with enterprise partners to create digital ecosystems.
What Is Zero Trust Security?
Zero Trust security is an approach that protects applications and devices wherever they reside or outside the perimeter. It is based on the principle of "never trust, always verify." This means that all users, devices and applications must be authenticated and authorized before they are granted access to any resources (e.g., applications, devices, and data.)
Zero Trust Security vs. Traditional Approaches
Zero Trust security differs significantly from traditional approaches like perimeter-based security. Here are some of those differences:
More Partnerships and Connections Mean Greater Need for Strong Data Security
CSPs have become digital service providers, partnering with enterprises to develop innovative products and services that will transform healthcare, manufacturing, transportation and other industries. With its faster speed, lower latency and high capacity, 5G supports the development of Internet of Things (IoT) and lifesaving technologies such as vehicle safety systems, medical devices and connected ambulances that transmit patient information to the emergency room during transport.
