Palo Alto Networks (PANW) Certified Cybersecurity Entry-level Technician (PCCET) Practice Exam

A Zero Trust network security model is based on which security principle?

1. Due diligence

2. Least privilege

3. Non-repudiation

4. Negative control

The correct answer is: Least privilege

The Zero Trust network security model is fundamentally based on the principle of least privilege. This principle posits that individuals and systems should only have access to the resources and information necessary for their specific tasks or roles, and nothing more. By limiting access rights to the bare minimum needed, organizations can significantly reduce the attack surface and minimize the potential damage from insider threats or compromised accounts. Zero Trust operates under the assumption that threats could exist both outside and inside the network, meaning no user or device should be trusted by default, regardless of whether they are inside or outside the organization's perimeter. This approach encourages strict verification for every request, ensuring that only authenticated and authorized users can access sensitive data and systems. In essence, by prioritizing the least privilege principle throughout the Zero Trust architecture, organizations create a more secure environment that helps in mitigating risks related to data breaches and cyber attacks.