A Zero Trust-Based Approach to Modern Cybersecurity Challenges in Software Development
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.63282/3050-922X.IJERET-V6I3P113Keywords:
Cybersecurity, Zero Trust Network Architecture (ZTNA), Secure Software Development, Identity and Access Management (IAM), HIPAA, Cloud Security, Regulatory ComplianceAbstract
The rapidly shifting digital landscape, with increased complexity of software systems and the utilization of cloud systems, mobile technologies, and continuous deployment methods, has presented cybersecurity threats as never before. The application of conventional models, which can be characterized as the perimeter-based castle-and-moat strategy is no longer enough to counter sophisticated threats like supply chain vulnerabilities, ransomware, and insider assaults. As a paradigm, the Zero Trust Network Architecture (ZTNA) is designed to address these weaknesses as a groundbreaking solution based on "never trust, always verify." This article discusses applying the concept of Zero Trust (ZT) to modern software development, exploring how the concept can be integrated into the DevSecOps pipeline to ensure identity, device, and code integrity checks are performed at each stage of development. Some of the most significant aspects considered in relation to enabling the creation of resilient, safe systems include Identity and Access Management (IAM), endpoint security, network segmentation, SIEM, DLP, CASB, and threat intelligence. Furthermore, the paper addresses the topic of cybersecurity vulnerabilities in DevOps and CI/CD pipelines, as well as the concepts of data privacy and regulatory compliance standards, including HIPAA and GDPR. Finally, the challenges of the implementation of the ZT, which are the integration with the legacy systems and the computational requirements, are addressed with the assistance of strategic advice on safe and scaled implementation
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