Zero Trust Architecture: Identity-Based Firewall Policies

Under the Zero Trust framework, identity-based firewalls are changing security by enforcing strict access control. While traditional firewalls depended heavily on network perimeters, remote working, cloud usage, and cyber threats can no longer be mitigated by that approach alone.

Zero Trust is based on verifying identities before providing access; security is built around it. This means that only authenticated users and devices can reach sensitive systems. Border routers can be rented only with identity-based policies; this flexible, scalable, and highly secure approach minimizes the need to invest in hundreds of thousands of dollars upfront for a new topological infrastructure.

Identity in Security

While traditional security models emphasized perimeter defense, with the assumption that anything inside the network was safe, this no longer works. Firewalls can be bypassed, phishing attempts can get credentials, and insider threats exist. This is the reason Zero Trust mandates verify never trust.

The identity-based firewalls ensure security based on:

• Authentication of users and devices prior to access
• Remove blind trust of networks
• Securing remote workers
• Enforcing stringent access policies

If you are renting a firewall that uses an identity-based policy, you are renting a solution that is designed to adapt as security needs evolve.

Enforcing Least Privilege

Least privilege access is one of the foundational concepts of Zero Trust. This means people have only the access they need to get their jobs done. Access is specific and narrowly controlled rather than general permissions.

How identity-based firewalls implement least privilege:

• User-based filtering – Rather than allowing access based on the user’s IP address, the firewall authenticates the users before granting access.
• Granular security policies — Users have different access capabilities depending on their role.
• Time-based access – Temporary permissions minimize security threats by offering access only when it is appropriate.
• Device-based control — Rights are limited to approved, protected devices.

Using firewalls which implement least privilege via identity and access preventions is vital for any rented firewall.

Use Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)

Just passwords are no longer sufficient. Cyberattacks have gotten too sophisticated. Even the best passwords can be compromised. Using multi-factor authentication (MFA) is another way to fortify things.

How identity-based firewalls support MFA:

• Two-factor authentication required – That is, using two verification methods, such as a password and a thumbprint, an authentication app, or an SMS code.
• Stopping unauthorized access — Attackers cannot access an application or service, even if the password is compromised, without the second factor.
• Risk-based – If a login request raises alarms, before granting access MFA adds additional authentication layers.

MFA integration is included with most firewall rentals, and keeps systems more secure than purchasing additional hardware, or more complex setups.

Role-Based Access

Rather than assigning a specific set of the same permissions to every user, role-based access control (RBAC) gives each individual only access to the data and applications necessary to do their jobs.

Identity-based firewalls carry out role-based access control (RBAC):

• Access rules defined – Users are grouped into roles like Admin, Employee, or Guest.
• Reduced attack surface – In case of an identity compromise, even in that case attackers won’t get complete access.
• Role-based dynamic access – When people change roles, their access is automatically updated.

RBAC ensures security is flexible and scalable as business requirements evolve by renting rather than paying for firewalls.

Continuous Validation

It also goes against Zero Trust, which isn’t one-off verification. Security solutions must continuously verify trust for access. Identity-based firewalls exceed static policies and conduct real-time validation.

This includes:

• Based on user behavior – Identifying inconsistent access patterns and notifying anomalies.
• Session-based authentication – Requires identity verification after defined intervals.
• Real-time risk assessment — If a login attempt suddenly originates from a different country, access is immediately blocked.
• Adaptive access policies – Security policies dynamically adjust when a threat is detected.

Zero Trust only works if you reap its benefits without the need for constant manual validation, and renting firewalls that support continuous validation is the only way to go.

The Need for Identity-Based Security: Why Rent Firewalls?

For businesses with Zero Trust implementations, firewall rentals are a no-brainer because:

• Affordable — No big upfront costs, predictable pricing.
• Scalability – You can upgrade or switch models as security requirements evolve.
• The most recent technology – Firewall with updated identity-based policies to ensure the highest level of protection.
• Expert support – Managed firewall rentals come with security updates and policy enforcement help.

Through identity-based firewalls, organizations improve access control, minimize cyber risks, and facilitate Zero Trust compliance.