It’s not your imagination; Zero Trust (ZT) is everywhere these days. Indeed, one study reports that 96% of security decision-makers say ZT is critical to their organization’s success, and another study notes that 51% of business leaders are speeding up their deployment of ZT capabilities. But exactly what is Zero Trust and why is it the top security priority for organizations around the globe?

Modern organizations depend upon a dizzying array of software: operating systems, word processing applications, HR and financial tools, backup and recovery solutions, database systems, and much, much more. These software assets are often vital for critical business operations — but they also pose important security risks.

Modern IT environments typically include a wide range of applications: software developed in house, hosted software platforms, open-source tools and purchased solutions. Because these applications access sensitive systems, data and other IT assets, cybercriminals are eager to exploit them during attacks. CIS Control 16 offers application software security controls for strengthening your organization’s security posture.

The Center for Internet Security (CIS) publishes Critical Security Controls that help organization improve cybersecurity. CIS Control 9 covers protections for email and web browsers.