Least privilege

The principle of least privilege (PoLP) is fundamental to constructing robust cybersecurity architectures. It asserts users should only have the bare minimum access required to perform duties. Architects must master least privilege to erect resilient protections. By restricting unnecessary access, risks are reduced, accountability is enabled, and attack surfaces shrink. In the context of zero trust, PoLP also applies to device identities, not just user identities. This is a comment to be applied throughout this chapter regarding least privilege.

Cybersecurity architects hold crucial responsibility for translating least privilege into technical implementations and governing policies. They must audit entitlements and align controls to curtail excess while empowering productivity. The most potent architects embed least privilege judiciously, not dogmatically, leveraging automation and awareness to balance security with usability.

This section will explore best practices...