Implementing tools such as multifactor authentication and privileged access management allows IT teams to provision and deprovision users with ease while maintaining security compliance. That’s because IAM is a prerequisite for zero-trust security, mitigating insider threats and data breaches.

Artificial intelligence allows cybercriminals to automate and scale their attacks. Agencies need robust cyber resilience programs not simply to protect against these new threats but also to recover when they succeed. That starts with combining cybersecurity, business continuity and disaster recovery practices.

The clock is ticking for federal civilian agencies. They must meet zero-trust objectives by Sept. 30. That includes deploying identity management, securing endpoint detection and response solutions, and encrypting network traffic. As the deadline nears, agencies are making their final moves.

Establishing a zero-trust approach has its challenges. Security professionals need leadership buy-in, adequate budgets and a strategy aligned with maturity models. Done right, streamlined security increases overall resilience, improves compliance and reduces risk.