With the end of Windows 10 support on the horizon, many organizations will be running hybrid IT environments—some devices upgraded to Windows 11, others still on legacy systems, plus a growing reliance on cloud apps. This mix creates complexity, and with complexity comes risk. To protect against modern threats, SMBs must adopt Zero Trust security.
What Is Zero Trust?
Zero Trust is built on a simple principle: never trust, always verify. Instead of assuming that users or devices inside a network are safe, Zero Trust requires continuous verification and least-privilege access for every request.
Applying Zero Trust Across Environments
- Identities: Enforce multi-factor authentication (MFA) and strong password policies.
- Devices: Monitor device health, patch status, and compliance before granting access.
- Networks: Use microsegmentation to limit lateral movement within networks.
- Applications: Protect cloud and on-prem apps with conditional access and monitoring.
- Data: Encrypt sensitive data both in transit and at rest.
Tactical Advice for SMBs
- Microsegmentation: Break networks into smaller zones with strict access rules.
- Least-Privilege Access: Give users only the permissions required for their role.
- Continuous Verification: Re-authenticate users periodically, not just at login.
- Phased Approach: Start with high-risk areas (e.g., finance apps) before expanding.
Why Now?
As SMBs juggle Windows 10 transitions, hybrid setups, and increasing cloud reliance, Zero Trust provides a consistent framework that reduces attack opportunities. It’s not just a security model—it’s a resilience strategy.
Zero Trust helps SMBs manage security during uncertain times, protecting data and operations no matter where or how work gets done.