Zero Trust is a security model that treats every access attempt as if it originates from an untrusted network. It emphasizes the need to authenticate every user and device before granting access to applications and data, regardless of their location or the network they are using. This approach is essential for managing the security of a cloud-connected, mobile, and remote workforce.

Establishing trust in a Zero Trust framework involves several steps: verifying user identities through scalable multi-factor authentication (MFA), gaining visibility into the security health of devices accessing applications, and enforcing adaptive policies based on user roles, device types, and locations. This ensures that only the right users and secure devices can access sensitive applications.

Adaptive policies in a Zero Trust model allow organizations to enforce granular, contextual access controls based on various factors such as user identity, device security posture, and geographic location. This means that access can be tailored to the specific needs of users while maintaining security, ensuring that sensitive applications are protected without hindering user workflows.