Page 206 - Cyber Defense eMagazine RSAC Special Edition 2025

accelerates key processes such as labeling environments and implementing day-one policies, making
security measures more efficient and adaptive. By leveraging AI-driven automation alongside solutions
like ZTS, agencies and owners can proactively isolate threats while maintaining seamless operations,
strengthening their overall security posture.

Strengthening collaboration efforts is also essential. Critical infrastructure owners and agencies must
work closely with the federal government to share intelligence, enhance threat visibility, and develop
coordinated defense strategies. By integrating these advanced security measures, agencies can build
adaptive, resilient defenses that protect vital assets and maintain national security.

By modernizing security strategies and adopting proactive measures, critical infrastructure owners can
reduce operational risk, limit the impact of cyber intrusions, and strengthen national security.

Balancing Security with Operational Continuity

Striking the right balance requires a security strategy that enhances protection without introducing
inefficiencies or disrupting mission-critical functions. This means adopting solutions, like ZTS, that
integrate with existing infrastructure to help isolate threats while allowing normal operations to continue.
Agencies must also take a phased approach to modernization, testing and implementing security
upgrades incrementally to minimize operational disruptions and ensure efficiency. Additionally,
cybersecurity measures should be tailored to specific operational needs – rather than applying one-size-
fits-all solutions.

Meeting Today’s Threats and Charging Forward

As cyber threats continue to evolve, securing critical infrastructure demands a proactive and modernized
approach. Critical infrastructure owners can no longer rely on outdated security models that leave vital
systems vulnerable to ransomware and other attacks and ultimately create an environment that stalls
efficiency.

By adopting Zero Trust principles and implementing ZTS, agencies and critical infrastructure owners can
significantly reduce risks and strengthen national security. Balancing these measures with operational
continuity ensures that security enhancements do not compromise essential services. Through strategic
modernization, agencies can build resilient defenses that safeguard the nation’s most essential assets.

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