Zero Trust: how to apply the zero trust model to your IT infrastructure

The Zero Trust approach is establishing itself as a new standard: trust no one and nothing by default, and verify everything continuously.

This model has emerged because the traditional way of protecting IT environments, based on a defined perimeter of trust, is no longer sufficient. Current security models must assume that every connection, user, or device could be a potential threat.

That is why it is essential to have a strategic partner to accompany your organization in this paradigm shift, helping you to implement progressive strategies to move towards more secure, auditable, and resilient environments.

In this article, we explain what the Zero Trust model consists of, what its pillars are, how to apply it according to the type of infrastructure, and where to start to achieve concrete results.

What is the Zero Trust model and why is it more than just a trend?

The Zero Trust model is based on a clear principle: never trust, always verify. This means that no user, device, or application has automatic access to resources, even if they are within the corporate network.

The concept was born more than a decade ago in response to growing internal threats, the growth of remote working, and the adoption of cloud services. Today, in the face of hybrid environments and increasingly sophisticated attacks, its adoption is key to minimizing risk and protecting critical data.

Unlike the traditional perimeter model, which assumes that everything inside the network is trustworthy, Zero Trust redefines the boundary: now the perimeter is in identity, device, access, and context.

Pillars of the Zero Trust model: beyond authentication

Zero Trust is not a single technology, but rather a strategy that combines different IT security practices and tools. Its fundamental pillars include:

• Identity and access with minimal privileges: Each user or system only accesses what is necessary. MFA (multi-factor authentication), periodic permission reviews, and granular control are implemented.
• Network microsegmentation: The network is divided into small zones to prevent lateral movement by an attacker. If one node is compromised, it does not spread to the entire environment.
• Visibility, monitoring, and continuous response: All access must be logged, analyzed, and managed. SIEM tools, automated alerts, and behavioral analysis are applied.
• Security policy automation: Access decisions are made in real time based on context: device, location, time, previous behavior, etc.

Implementing these pillars progressively allows you to strengthen your security posture without affecting daily operations.

Is Zero Trust feasible in on-premise environments?

Yes, although many Zero Trust implementations are developed in cloud environments, it is also entirely feasible (and recommended) to apply its principles in on-premise or hybrid infrastructures.

Common challenges:

• Legacy systems with low integration capacity.
• Lack of modern monitoring tools or MFA.
• Operational complexity for microsegmenting internal networks.

Possible strategies:

• Start with identity and access governance (Active Directory, privileges, MFA).
• Establish segmented network zones for critical systems.
• Incorporate visibility and auditing tools into local access.

The progressive adoption of Zero Trust in on-premise environments allows you to:

• Reduce the risk of lateral movement.
• Improve access traceability.
• Prepare the environment for a future migration to the cloud with greater security.

How to start implementing Zero Trust in your company?

There is no universal recipe, but there is a recommended path that many successful organizations are following. These are the first steps to implementing Zero Trust with a focus on concrete results:

1. Initial diagnosis

Map current assets, systems, users, and access points. Identify security gaps and uncontrolled processes.

2. Prioritization of critical environments

Start with the most sensitive: financial systems, personal data, exposed services, etc.

3. Integration with existing tools

Leverage and extend already installed solutions: Active Directory, firewalls, MDM, monitoring tools, etc.

4. Specialized technical assessments

An identity or infrastructure assessment allows you to understand the current level of maturity and define a tailored roadmap.

Frequently asked questions about Zero Trust?

We answer some common questions that arise when beginning to explore this security approach.

Is Zero Trust only for large companies?

No. Although large organizations tend to lead the way in adopting it, the model is scalable and can be implemented progressively in SMEs or smaller teams.

Does Zero Trust require changing the entire infrastructure?

Not necessarily. Zero Trust is based on principles and can be applied with existing tools, such as Active Directory, firewalls, and monitoring solutions.

How long does it take to implement Zero Trust?

It depends on the starting point and the desired scope. It is recommended to proceed in stages, prioritizing the most critical environments.

Is it mandatory to use the cloud to apply Zero Trust?

No. Although many modern solutions are cloud-based, the model can also be applied in on-premise environments with the appropriate adjustments.

What specific benefits does the Zero Trust approach offer?

Greater security, risk reduction, full access traceability, regulatory compliance, and readiness for future technological upgrades.

Zero Trust is not a trend

Zero Trust is a new security model that allows you to adapt to a context where trust must be earned, not assumed.

At Wezen, we can help you diagnose your current situation, prioritize actions, and move toward a more robust, frictionless security model tailored to your company’s reality.

Is your organization ready to take the first step toward a zero trust strategy? Write to us. We can help you get started.

Illustrative image: Google AI Studio (2025) Nano Banana (models/gemini-2.5-flash-image) URL

Sources:

• “What is Zero Trust? – Guide to Zero Trust Security” (CrowdStrike) — URL
• “Zero Trust Architecture” (NIST Special Publication 800‑207) — URL
• “What is Zero Trust?” (Microsoft Learn) — URL
• “What is Zero Trust security | What is a Zero Trust network?” (Cloudflare Learning Center) — URL
• “Zero Trust security model” (IBM Think) — URL