1.8 Summarize evolving use cases for modern network environments

Zero Trust Architecture (ZTA)

📘CompTIA Network+ (N10-009)

Least privilege access is one of the most important principles of Zero Trust Architecture (ZTA). In Zero Trust, the network never automatically trusts a device, user, or application. Instead, access is always verified and controlled. Least privilege access supports this by ensuring that every user or system only gets the minimum level of access required to perform their tasks.

What Is Least Privilege Access?

Least privilege access means giving users, applications, and devices only the exact amount of access they need—nothing more.

If a user only needs to read data, they should not be able to edit or delete it.
If a server only needs access to one database, it should not have access to the entire network.

This reduces security risks, limits damage during attacks, and prevents unauthorized access.

Why Least Privilege Access Matters in ZTA

Zero Trust is based on “never trust, always verify.”
Least privilege supports this by:

1. Reducing the attack surface

With less access, attackers cannot move easily through the network.

2. Containing threats

If a single user account or device is compromised, the damage stays limited.

3. Preventing misuse

Users cannot accidentally or intentionally access areas they should not.

4. Supporting microsegmentation

Least privilege goes hand-in-hand with segmenting the network into smaller zones to control access precisely.

How Least Privilege Works in an IT Environment

1. Role-Based Access Control (RBAC)

Permissions are assigned based on job roles (e.g., accounting, HR, IT).
Roles only get the permissions needed for their tasks.

2. Attribute-Based Access Control (ABAC)

Permissions are based on attributes such as:

user identity
device type
location
time of day
security posture of device

ABAC allows more detailed and dynamic access decisions.

3. Just-In-Time (JIT) Access

Access is given only when needed and only for a short time.
After the task is completed, access automatically expires.

4. Continuous Verification

Even after access is granted, ZTA constantly checks:

user behavior
device health
session activity

If anything becomes suspicious, access is reduced or revoked.

5. Segmented Access

Network resources are divided into smaller segments, and each user/application gets access only to specific segments required for their tasks.

Examples of Least Privilege in an IT Environment

These examples avoid everyday analogies and use real IT scenarios:

Example 1: User Access to File Shares

A user in the finance team may:

access only the finance folder
have “read-only” permission on certain documents
have no access to HR or IT folders

Example 2: Application Access to a Database

An application might:

only access a specific database table
only read certain fields
be restricted from writing or deleting data

Example 3: Admin Privileges

An IT technician might:

manage user accounts
but not have permission to modify firewall rules or server settings

Example 4: Server Access

A web server:

communicates with an application server
but cannot directly access sensitive internal systems

Key Components Supporting Least Privilege in ZTA

1. Identity and Access Management (IAM)

Used to control:

who can access what
how authentication occurs
what permissions are allowed

2. Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)

Ensures identity is legitimate before granting access.

3. Privileged Access Management (PAM)

Controls and monitors administrative (high-level) accounts.

4. Device Compliance Checks

Devices must meet security requirements (e.g., updated OS, antivirus running).

5. Logging and Monitoring

Tracks all access attempts and behavior.
Helps detect unusual activity that may require reducing privileges.

Common Misconceptions for the Exam

Misconception 1: Least privilege means no access

Incorrect. It means only the required access, not zero access.

Misconception 2: Least privilege applies only to users

Least privilege applies to:

users
devices
applications
services

Misconception 3: It is a one-time setup

Least privilege must be monitored, updated, and enforced continuously.

Benefits of Least Privilege Access (Exam Focus)

Limits lateral movement inside the network
Reduces risk of insider threats
Minimizes damage from compromised accounts
Supports strong ZTA implementation
Ensures compliance with industry standards
Enhances visibility and control

How Least Privilege Fits into the Zero Trust Model

Zero Trust Architecture includes principles like:

continuous authentication
microsegmentation
device posture assessment
strict access controls

Least privilege is the core access control principle that ensures minimal permissions at all times.

Together, these elements create a security model where no device or user is trusted automatically.

Exam Tips for Network+ (N10-009)

Least privilege = minimum required access
Part of Zero Trust access control
Supports microsegmentation
Reduces attack surface
Uses roles, attributes, and policies
Dynamic and constantly verified
Applies to users, devices, and applications