In a rapidly-evolving digital landscape, traditional network security models are no longer enough to protect against increasingly sophisticated cyber threats. The concept of zero trust networking has emerged as a robust solution, emphasizing that no user or device should be trusted by default. This approach is particularly relevant in sectors like higher education, where sensitive data and diverse user bases create complex security challenges.

Bramble Hub, with our partner 4C Strategies, have delivered networking solutions to a number of public sector organisations.

What is Zero Trust Networking?

Zero trust networking is based on the principle of "trust nothing, verify everything". Unlike traditional network models that rely mainly on a secure perimeter, zero trust assumes that threats can originate from anywhere, including within the network.

It focuses on verifying the identity and permissions of users, devices and applications before granting access to resources. This approach ensures that even if a device or user is compromised, the damage can be contained by limiting lateral movement within the network.

Key Principles of Zero Trust

Acknowledging the role of Zero Trust, the National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) outlined eight key principles for implementing a zero trust architecture:

1. Know your architecture: Understand all users, devices, services, and data within your network.

2. Know your identities: Clearly define user, service, and device identities.

3. Assess behaviour and health: Monitor user behaviour, device health, and service status.

4. Use policies to authorise requests: Implement policies to control access based on identity and context.

5. Authenticate and authorise everywhere: Verify identities at every interaction.

6. Focus monitoring on users, devices, and services: Prioritise visibility into user and device activity.

7. Don't trust any network: Treat all networks as potentially compromised.

8. Choose services designed for zero trust: Select solutions that support zero trust principles.

4C Strategies and Zero Trust Networking in Higher Education

4C Strategies has been at the forefront of helping higher education institutions transition to zero trust architectures. Their expertise is highlighted in projects with universities like Oxford Brookes and the University of Cumbria.

Oxford Brookes University

In their work with Oxford Brookes, 4C Strategies supported a comprehensive digital transformation project. This involved assessing the university's network infrastructure, developing a target architecture, and ensuring robust security measures such as access controls and threat detection. While the project did not specifically focus on zero trust, it laid the groundwork for future security enhancements by emphasising resilience, availability, and authentication.

The University of Cumbria

For the University of Cumbria, 4C Strategies played a critical role in designing a zero trust network strategy. This involved creating a roadmap for deploying a new network architecture that would support the university's digital ambitions while enhancing cybersecurity. The zero trust model was chosen to address the challenges of securing access for staff, students, and guests, both on and off campus, as the university migrated more services to the cloud.

Benefits of Zero Trust in the Public Sector

Implementing a zero trust architecture offers several benefits to public sector organisations:

Enhanced Security: Protects against internal and external threats by limiting lateral movement.
Flexibility: Supports hybrid work environments where users access resources from various locations.
Increased Visibility: Provides better insights into user access and behaviour.
Data Privacy: Ensures data security and compliance with regulations like GDPR.
Cost Efficiency: Reduces reliance on endpoint protection and minimises the need for extensive network segmentation.

Conclusion

As public sector organisations face increasing cyber security threats, adopting a zero trust architecture is becoming an essential part of a holistic approach to cyber security.

With their expertise and experience in the sector, 4C Strategies is well positioned to guide organisations through this transition. By embracing zero trust, organisations can ensure a more secure, resilient, and flexible network environment that supports their digital strategies and protects sensitive data.