Understanding Zero Trust Architecture

Zero Trust Architecture (ZTA) operates by continuously verifying the identity and integrity of devices, users, and applications. ZTA utilizes strict access controls, real-time monitoring, and dynamic policy enforcement to ensure that only authenticated and authorized users can access resources.

Traditional security models assume internal network traffic is trustworthy, whereas ZTA assumes all network traffic is a threat. This concept shifts the focus from assuming internal network traffic is trusted by default to verifying trust continuously—ensuring that only authorized users, devices, and applications are granted access.

Texas RE encourages Responsible Entities to review the National Institute of Standards and Technology Special Publication 800-207 for more information about zero trust.