What is frequently overlooked when implementing Zero Trust?

Implementing Zero Trust cannot be accomplished overnight. Even experienced IT managers often underestimate the effort required for Zero Trust. In this article, we explain which points are often overlooked in practice. 

Many IT decision-makers and security experts are convinced that the Zero Trust security model is an effective, if not the best, response to the current IT security challenges. It also offers numerous advantages for companies, which are widely acknowledged. However, in practice, however, planners and implementers often overlook some important points.

Why user acceptance is so important

Many users feel that implementing Zero Trust can decrease usability in their daily work. Without specialized solutions like single sign-on (SSO), users often have to log in and out of multiple systems to complete their tasks. In a Zero Trust environment, employees must authenticate more frequently than they did previously, which many find frustrating and time-consuming. Providing targeted training addresses this issue.

The introduction of Zero Trust significantly alters work processes and the work environment, and it is essential for users to accept these changes. Therefore, companies must consider their employees' needs early in the transition, involve them in the process, and provide ongoing support afterward. In some instances, the increased security measures may lead to a decline in performance. Users may experience delays and slower system responses due to continuous access checks. This issue is particularly evident in legacy systems or those with limited capabilities, which may struggle to maintain performance under these additional requirements.

How legacy systems often cause problems

Additional challenges arise by integrating old systems into a company's new Zero Trust infrastructure. In most cases, it is necessary to modernize or restructure these systems. Likewise, many underestimate the effort required for true interoperability and compatibility. After all, the various systems and applications should also be able to communicate with each other and exchange data in the future.

An often overlooked aspect is the financial and personnel resources necessary for transitioning to a Zero Trust model. Additionally, issues may arise if not all parts of the company are engaged in this shift. It's especially important for management and the board to fully support the transition.

Why the effort of zero trust implementation is often underestimated

It's now evident to every practitioner that implementing the Zero Trust concept is not an instantaneous process. Experience indicates that for small and medium-sized companies, the introduction typically takes at least six to twelve months, and it can sometimes take even longer. For larger companies, the implementation can extend up to three years due to their more extensive and complex IT environments.

There is no strict rule regarding the duration of implementation. It largely depends on the existing infrastructure and the specific circumstances of the company. For instance, the presence of legacy systems can extend the implementation time. Conversely, if cloud-based solutions are already in place, the process may be quicker

Where the future challenges lie for companies

The implementation of Zero Trust in a company does not mark the end of work; rather, it is an ongoing process. Continuous monitoring and adjustment of security measures are essential. Companies and organizations must regularly review and update their security protocols to address current threat levels. This proactive approach is crucial for ensuring the long-term success of Zero Trust implementation.

Phases and duration of a major Zero Trust implementation

Every Zero Trust implementation varies, making it impossible to establish a completely reliable timeline in advance. However, the following phases have been successfully applied in larger companies. Smaller companies typically require less effort in these areas

• Planning and analysis: This phase usually takes two to four months, but in some situations it can take much longer. It includes assessing the current security situation, setting the desired objectives, and drawing up an implementation plan.
• Pilot projects: In most cases, it is advisable to carry out one or more pilot projects to test the measures. Such a project usually takes three to six months. The actual duration depends on the size and complexity of the tested environments.
• Gradual implementation: Full implementation in all departments and areas of the company usually takes another six to eighteen months. This depends strongly on the size and nature of the infrastructure.
• Ongoing adjustments: Further adjustments and optimizations are necessary after implementation. Zero Trust is a continuous process and not a one-off measure that is completed on day X and then checked off.

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