DoD’s Zero Trust Strategy Requires a Zscaler Defense-in-Depth Approach

Introduction

Commanders, Mission Owners, and DoD IT Security Leaders hand-select Zscaler’s comprehensive zero trust architecture as the foundation for instantiating the Department of Defense's (DoD) Zero Trust Reference Architecture and Strategy, mandates and NIST 800-207 guidelines, ensuring robust protection for unclassified data through least-privileged access and continuous authentication.  

By integrating Zero Trust Network Access (ZTNA), Secure Web Gateway (SWG), Cloud Access Security Broker (CASB), and Data Loss Prevention (DLP), Zscaler ensures seamless, policy-driven security that prevents unauthorized access and data exposure. Its real-time analytics, automated threat response, and microsegmentation drastically reduce the attack surface, while identity-based controls like multifactor Authentication (MFA) and privileged access management (PAM) fortify access security. With Zscaler, defense agencies achieve unparalleled protection, compliance, and operational agility in an evolving cyberthreat landscape.

Core Zscaler Security and Compliance Capabilities

Zero Trust Principles Enforcing by Zscaler

• Least-privileged access: Zscaler's ZTNA ensures that users and devices are granted access solely to the applications and data necessary for their roles, minimizing the potential attack surface. This approach aligns with the DoD's emphasis on least-privilege access to enhance security. ​
• Continuous authentication: Implementing multifactor Authentication (MFA) and continuous user verification, Zscaler maintains strict identity verification protocols, reducing the risk of unauthorized access. ​

Zscaler’s Integrated Security Features

• Secure Web Gateway (SWG): Monitors and controls web traffic, blocking malicious content and ensuring compliance with organizational policies.​ 
• Cloud Access Security Broker (CASB): Provides visibility and control over data stored in cloud applications, enforcing security policies and detecting potential threats.​
• Data Loss Prevention (DLP): Monitors data in transit and at rest to prevent unauthorized sharing or leakage of sensitive information.​
• Browser Isolation: Executes web content in a secure, isolated environment, protecting endpoints from web-based threats.​
• Real-Time Threat Protection: Utilizes advanced threat intelligence and machine learning to detect and mitigate threats in real-time, ensuring proactive defense against emerging cyberthreats.​

Scalable Compliance and Cybersecurity for the World’s Largest Organization

Zscaler's platform is designed to meet stringent compliance requirements, including alignment with NIST 800-207 and the DoD Zero Trust Maturity Model. Its cloud native architecture ensures scalability, supporting the dynamic needs of defense operations without compromising security or performance. ​

By adopting Zscaler's integrated security solutions, organizations can effectively enforce zero trust principles, ensuring the protection of unclassified data while achieving compliance and operational efficiency.

Benefits for Commanders, Mission Owners, and IT Security Leaders

• Compliance with DoD and NIST Standards: Aligns with NIST 800-207 and DoD mandates
• Reduced attack surface: Eliminate implicit trust and enforce least-privilege access.
• Least-privileged access: Restricts access, preventing unauthorized lateral movement. 
• Continuous authentication and identity verification: Uses MFA and real-time identity verification. 
• Comprehensive data protection: Secures data in transit, at rest, and in use. 
• Real-time threat protection: AI-driven detection and automated threat blocking. 
• Secure web access with SWG and Browser Isolation: Blocks phishing and isolates malicious content. 
• Seamless cloud scalability: Eliminates bottlenecks with a cloud-native architecture. 
• Cost efficiency and reduced complexity: Consolidates tools, lowering costs and complexity. 

Take Action: Build a Resilient Zero Trust Architecture Today

As cyberthreats escalate and organizations embrace cloud-driven infrastructures, legacy security models like VPNs and perimeter defenses are no longer effective. Secure access service edge (SASE) delivers the security and compliance framework organizations need, combining Zero Trust Network Access (ZTNA), Secure Web Gateway (SWG), Cloud Access Security Broker (CASB), and Data Loss Prevention (DLP) to protect sensitive data and ensure compliance with NIST 800-207 and the DoD Zero Trust Maturity Model.

Don’t wait for the next breach. Start your SASE journey today to protect sensitive data, achieve compliance with NIST 800-207, and secure your future-ready enterprise. Contact us now to explore tailored solutions.