Zero-Trust Architecture for Critical Infrastructure

Published Nov 15, 2025 · 9 min read

Zero-trust for critical infrastructure requires adapting principles to OT constraints: deterministic traffic, legacy assets, and high availability. Start small, prove value, then scale.

Roadmap

1. Assessment: Map assets, data flows, and trust zones.
2. Design: Choose identity provider, micro-segmentation, and policy engine.
3. Pilot: Non-critical segment with tight observability.
4. Rollout: Phased expansion with automated policy testing.
5. Optimization: Continuous tuning, posture checks, and red-team validation.

Key Controls

• Strong identity with phishing-resistant MFA.
• Device posture verification for engineering workstations.
• Micro-segmentation for SCADA and corporate networks.
• East-west traffic inspection with encrypted flows.