Describe the concept of "zero trust" in cybersecurity.

The concept of "zero trust" in cybersecurity fundamentally revolves around the principle that no entity, whether inside or outside an organization, should be trusted by default. This model emerged in response to the evolving threat landscape, where traditional perimeter-based security approaches became insufficient due to factors like remote work, cloud services, and increasingly sophisticated cyber threats.

Zero trust operates on the premise that both external and internal threats exist. Therefore, every access request must be thoroughly verified before being granted. This involves strict identity verification processes, continuous monitoring of user behavior, and the principle of least privilege, ensuring that users only have access to the data and systems necessary for their roles.

By assuming no entity can be trusted by default, organizations can better protect their sensitive information and minimize the risk of data breaches or insider threats. This proactive and comprehensive approach helps ensure robust security regardless of the user's location or their network status, ultimately leading to a more resilient defense against potential cyber threats.