Remote work isn’t going anywhere. But as teams work from kitchens, cafés, or co-working spaces, security risks multiply. That’s where Zero Trust comes in.
In this blog, we’ll break down what Zero Trust is, why it matters for remote work, and how to implement it. Whether you’re an IT leader or just trying to make your business more secure, this guide has you covered.
Zero Trust and Remote Work Security
The old way of thinking assumed that once someone was inside your network, they could be trusted. But with remote work, people log in from anywhere — home Wi-Fi, mobile devices, shared laptops — and that trust just doesn’t cut it.
Zero Trust flips the script. It says: “Never trust, always verify.” No matter who’s trying to access your data, their identity and device must be checked first.
Implementing Zero Trust helps:
- Reduce the risk of data breaches
- Keep remote access secure
- Control what users can and can’t do
- Meet regulations like GDPR or HIPAA
How Zero Trust Works
Zero Trust security isn’t a single tool – Zero Trust Architecture (ZTA) is a framework that combines all the tools, processes, and rules that make Zero Trust work.
This isn’t just tech — it’s a full strategy to protect users, apps, data, and devices, especially in a remote setting.
It works by:
- Verifying identity through solutions like Single Sign-On (SSO) and Multi Factor Authentication (MFA)
- SSO is a user authentication that allows the user to use multiple applications. Think of when you sign into Google and you can then access all the Google applications/products, such as YouTube, Google Maps, Gmail etc, without logging in again.
- MFA is a user authentication that requires the user to verify their login using a second method of verification. An example of this is when online transactions require you to verify the purchase with a code from your bank.
- Validating devices via Mobile Device Management (MDM) systems such as Microsoft Intune, ensuring only compliant, encrypted, and enrolled devices can access the network
- Limiting access using conditional access policies and risk-based access.
- Monitoring activity continuously using tools like Microsoft Sentinel, CrowdStrike, or Heimdal. These work by allowing you to set up automated rules. If suspicious behaviour (e.g., a login from an unusual location at 3 a.m.) is detected, they automatically disable the user account and trigger alerts to your assigned manager.
Why Zero Trust Architecture Is Important
Block lateral movement by attackers
Even if attackers gain entry through one account or device, Zero Trust ensures they can’t move freely within the system. Conditional access policies and segmentation isolate users and services.
Support compliance (Cyber Essentials, ISO 27001)
Many security frameworks require practices such as MFA, encryption, and audit logs. Zero Trust architectures align well with these standards, making certification and compliance reporting more straightforward.
Protect mobile and remote environments
With cloud-first tools, Zero Trust verifies access based on device health, location, and user behaviour—ideal for managing offsite teams and BYOD setups.
Build customer confidence
Demonstrating proactive cybersecurity measures builds trust with customers, investors, and regulators. It shows that your organisation values data protection.
As more businesses shift to hybrid and remote work, adopting ZTA helps ensure long-term protection. It’s a scalable, adaptable approach that evolves with emerging threats and technologies.
How to Implement Zero Trust Architecture for Remote Workers
Implementing Zero Trust Architecture can take some time and patience. However, getting started is essential for the long-term security of your business. Here’s a simple way to get started:
- Ditch the VPN: VPNs give too much implicit trust. Use Global Secure Access or Microsoft Entra Internet Access instead, which continually verifies identity, location, and device compliance.
- Set up MFA Everywhere: Make MFA mandatory for all apps and users. Enforce policies through Microsoft 365 admin settings or Azure AD.
- Use Security Service Edge (SSE): Although less common now, SSEs like Palo Alto Prisma or Zscaler provide additional network-based security layers, especially where firewalls are still relevant.
- Lock Down BYOD: Define a BYOD policy. Example rule: Only allow access from enrolled and encrypted devices running the latest OS. Use MDM like Intune to enforce this.
- Train Your Team: Run Zero Trust awareness sessions. Explain why they’re using MFA, why updates matter, and how they can report suspicious behaviour.
Challenges of Zero Trust Architecture
- Legacy apps that don’t support SSO or MFA
- Resistance from staff required to re-authenticate
- Slower logins due to policy enforcement
- Upfront investment in new tools and training
For example, one client was hesitant about ditching VPNs. We introduced Microsoft Global Secure Access and phased rollout of Intune. Initial resistance faded as users benefited from faster logins and reduced outages. Within six months, phishing incidents decreased by 60%.
The Future of Remote Work Security with Zero Trust
Zero Trust is evolving. With AI, machine learning, and automation, security checks will soon be faster and smarter.
Expect:
- More predictive threat detection
- Better user experiences with passwordless logins
- Stronger protections for mobile and BYOD environments
If you want to stay ahead of cyber threats, Zero Trust is the way forward.
FAQs About Zero Trust
What is Zero Trust security?
Zero Trust is a security approach that assumes no user, device, or app should be trusted by default — even if they’re inside your network. Everything must be verified.
How does Zero Trust help with remote work?
It protects access to apps and data, no matter where employees are working from or what device they use.
What’s the difference between traditional and Zero Trust security?
Traditional models trust users inside the network. Zero Trust assumes everyone could be a threat and requires constant verification.
Is Zero Trust expensive to implement?
It can involve upfront investment, but it reduces the long-term risk and cost of data breaches.
Can small businesses use Zero Trust?
Absolutely. Zero Trust isn’t just for enterprises. Small businesses can start with basics like MFA and access control.
FAQs About IT Backbone
Who is IT Backbone?
We’re a UK-based IT support and cybersecurity provider helping businesses stay secure, productive, and connected — in the office or remotely.
What services does IT Backbone offer?
We offer managed IT support, cybersecurity solutions, cloud services, Zero Trust implementation, and strategic IT consultancy.
Can IT Backbone help us implement Zero Trust?
Yes! We help organisations assess risk, set up policies, choose the right tools, and train staff to get the most from Zero Trust security.
If you’re ready to protect your remote team with a Zero Trust strategy, IT Backbone is here to help. Contact us to get started.
