How Zero-trust Data Exchange Prepares You for NIS 2

In an era where cyber threats are continuously increasing in complexity and sophistication, there is no room for complacency in the cybersecurity of European organizations. The upcoming implementation of the NIS 2 Directive underscores the need for a robust security infrastructure that meets advanced data protection requirements. A strategy that is gaining increasing importance in this context is Zero-trust Data Exchange. But what makes this approach so crucial for NIS 2 compliance, and how can European organizations effectively implement it?

Why is Zero-trust Data Exchange now relevant in Europe?

The digital landscape in Europe is evolving rapidly, and with it, cybersecurity threats are growing. Given the stringent requirements regarding data protection and security, as established by the GDPR and more recently the NIS 2 Directive, European organizations must rethink their cybersecurity strategies. This is where Zero-trust Data Exchange comes into play, playing a key role in achieving high security standards and compliance with legal requirements.

The NIS 2 Directive brings stricter security requirements that force European companies to review and adapt their existing systems. Zero Trust provides a solid foundation for this, as it not only serves compliance with standards but also offers the flexibility to quickly respond to evolving threats. European organizations are therefore challenged to integrate this security approach to remain competitive and secure.

In 2025, Zero-trust security solutions are gaining increasing importance as they offer effective protection against modern threats. These solutions strengthen defense mechanisms by verifying every network interaction before access is granted. The integration of these technologies leads to improved security standards in companies that need to protect themselves against advanced cyberattacks.

What is Zero-trust Data Exchange?

Zero Trust is based on the fundamental principle “Never trust, always verify“. This model requires continuous verification and authentication of all users, devices, and even applications within the network. It places great emphasis on strict control of access to sensitive data and critical applications. The model assumes that threats can arise not only from external attackers but also from insiders, and therefore grants no implicit trustworthiness within the network. The philosophy of Zero Trust is a strategic response to the ever-increasing complexity and diversity of cyber threats. At the same time, it represents a proactive protective measure to strengthen the security architecture of companies. Organizations are increasingly relying on Zero Trust to track and verify every access point within the network. This can drastically minimize the risk of data breaches, unauthorized access, and potential security gaps. In practice, this means that every request and every data packet within the system is continuously and in real-time checked. This thorough and continuous examination ensures that both outgoing and incoming connections are checked to see if they comply with security policies. This ensures maximum security and prevents potential threats from going undetected or causing damage. Moreover, state-of-the-art technologies such as advanced authentication protocols and behavioral analytics are often used to implement even more comprehensive security measures.

How does Zero-trust Security work?

Zero-trust security is a modern security concept based on the principle of not trusting any user or device by default, even if they are within the network. Every access is strictly verified, authenticated, and authorized. This minimizes potential security gaps and protects sensitive data from unauthorized access.

Unlike traditional security models, Zero Trust assumes that no user or device is trusted. It employs strict authentication and authorization mechanisms to continuously verify and control access. This constant vigilance ensures that only legitimate requests are approved, regardless of the location or device from which they originate.

How to get started with Zero Trust

Zero Trust is a security concept aimed at minimizing threats both inside and outside the network. Instead of automatically trusting users, every request is validated. To start with Zero Trust, it is crucial to analyze your network infrastructure and develop a strategy that prioritizes identity and access controls.

Challenges in transitioning to Zero Trust

The introduction of a Zero-trust model can present several challenges for European organizations. These include the complexity of implementation, the need for ongoing monitoring and management of access rights, and ensuring that all measures comply with GDPR requirements. Additionally, Zero Trust requires comprehensive employee training to ensure a complete understanding and acceptance of the new security model.

In addition to technological adjustments, corporate cultures and processes must be realigned. The workforce must be trained in new security practices and apply them routinely. Furthermore, it is crucial that IT departments deploy the right tools and technologies to ensure continuous monitoring and analysis of anomalies in data traffic. These challenges must be proactively addressed to fully leverage the benefits of Zero Trust.

Zero Trust and NIS 2 Compliance

The NIS 2 Directive and the Zero-trust model are not coincidental parallel developments – they complement each other perfectly in their goals and requirements. NIS 2 requires companies to implement robust security measures that align precisely with the core principles of the Zero-trust approach.

Companies subject to NIS 2 regulation must implement a range of technical, operational, and organizational measures, including:

• Conducting regular risk assessments – Zero Trust supports this through continuous monitoring and evaluation of access patterns, allowing potential risks to be identified early.
• Ensuring supply chain security – With Zero Trust, external accesses are also strictly verified, increasing security across the entire supply chain.
• Use of encryption and multi-factor authentication – These are core elements of the Zero-trust model and directly linked to NIS 2 requirements.
• Network segmentation – Zero Trust implements micro-segmentation, ensuring the isolation of critical network areas as required by NIS 2.
• Regular review of security measures – Zero Trust requires constant adaptation and improvement, seamlessly fitting the NIS 2 requirements.

Note: Additionally, affected companies are required to classify themselves as “particularly important” or “important” entities, register with the relevant national cybersecurity authority, and report security incidents promptly. Zero-trust solutions with automated detection and documentation can significantly simplify and accelerate these reporting processes.

Zero Trust as an NIS 2 Requirement?

Although Zero Trust is not explicitly mentioned as a requirement in the NIS 2 Directive, the required security measures clearly reflect the core principles of this model. The directive demands a comprehensive, continuous, and proactive security approach – exactly what Zero Trust offers.

The biggest difference between traditional security models and Zero Trust lies in the approach to trust and access control:

• Traditional IT Security: Trusts everything within the network and primarily protects the perimeter (firewalls, VPNs).
• Zero Trust: Follows the principle “Never trust, always verify” – every request is continuously authenticated and authorized, regardless of its origin.

This mindset aligns with the spirit of the NIS 2 Directive, which requires companies to fundamentally rethink their cybersecurity measures and adopt a more holistic protection approach. Thus, Zero Trust can be considered an implicit requirement that helps companies meet the comprehensive security requirements of the NIS 2 Directive.

What are the application areas of Zero Trust?

Zero Trust is versatile and offers significant benefits to various industries and types of companies. The following application areas illustrate the flexibility and utility of this security concept:

• Cloud and Hybrid Environments: Zero Trust creates consistent security across different cloud platforms and on-premises infrastructures.
• Remote Work: Secure access controls for employees working from anywhere, without VPN restrictions.
• IoT Security: Protection for the growing number of connected devices in the corporate network.
• Application Security: Granular control of access to business applications and APIs.
• Data Privacy: End-to-end encryption and strict access controls for sensitive information.

By implementing Zero Trust, companies can:

• Granularly control access rights and restrict access to critical systems
• Detect unauthorized activities early and proactively prevent security incidents
• Minimize data leaks and internal security breaches by verifying every access request

Secure Data Exchange in Critical Infrastructure under NIS 2

Critical infrastructures (CRITIS) are a particular focus of the NIS 2 Directive, as their functionality is crucial for public welfare. Secure data exchange in these areas requires special attention and specific security measures.

Various CRITIS sectors particularly benefit from Zero Trust, as it helps them implement the stringent NIS 2 requirements:

• Financial Services: Zero-trust data exchange protects sensitive financial data and transactions through continuous authentication and encryption. Financial institutions can secure transactions while meeting regulatory requirements.
• Healthcare: Patient data is protected from ransomware attacks by segmenting networks and detecting suspicious activities early. Medical facilities can thus ensure service security and protect patient data.
• Energy Supply: Critical control systems are isolated and continuously monitored to prevent manipulation. This protects both the infrastructure and supply security.
• Transport and Logistics: Secure communication between different systems and locations is ensured without compromising operational efficiency.
• Public Administration: Citizen data and critical government functions are protected while keeping services accessible to the public.

The particular value of Zero Trust in CRITIS areas lies in its ability to protect critical data and systems without jeopardizing operational continuity. Granular access control and continuous monitoring enable secure data exchange, even in highly sensitive environments.

Zero Trust as an Economic Decision?

The implementation of Zero Trust involves costs – however, it is often cheaper than the potential fines and penalties that NIS 2 imposes for non-compliance:

• Zero Trust reduces the risk of data protection violations, which can incur high fines
• Companies minimize compliance risks by meeting the security requirements of NIS 2
• More efficient access management reduces long-term security costs

The exact cost-effectiveness of Zero Trust depends on factors such as company size, industry, and individual security requirements. Given the growing cybersecurity risks and stringent NIS 2 requirements, Zero Trust represents a strategically sensible investment to meet legal requirements and strengthen digital resilience.

Technologies and Tools for Zero-trust Implementation

To successfully implement Zero Trust, various technical solutions are available:

• Identity and Access Management (IAM): These systems enable precise control of user identities and access rights. They support the NIS 2 requirement for strong authentication through features such as multi-factor authentication.
• Network Micro-segmentation: Tools for micro-segmentation divide the network into isolated zones, preventing lateral movement of attackers and fulfilling the NIS 2 requirement for network segmentation.
• Data Protection through Encryption: Solutions for end-to-end encryption protect data during transmission and storage, as required by NIS 2.
• Security Monitoring and Threat Detection: These systems continuously monitor the network for suspicious activities and support timely incident reporting in accordance with NIS 2.

Steps to Implement Zero-trust Data Exchange

1. Identity and Access Management

A key component of the Zero-trust model is robust identity and access management. Multi-factor authentication, dynamic access controls, and continuous monitoring of user activities are essential components that contribute to ensuring the legitimacy of every request. Implementing these systems allows for regulating access to sensitive information, thereby significantly minimizing the risk of data leaks.

Particularly in the context of NIS 2 compliance, it is crucial for European organizations to modernize their identity management processes to meet increasing demands. This directly protects sensitive data from unauthorized access and fulfills the corresponding requirements of the directive.

2. Micro-segmentation

By dividing the network infrastructure into smaller, controllable units, known as micro-segments, security breaches can be confined to isolated areas, minimizing their impact. This strategy prevents threats from spreading unchecked throughout the network.

For companies working with sensitive data, micro-segmentation offers an additional layer of protection that ensures the safeguarding of information and meets the legal requirements of the NIS 2 Directive for network segmentation. This is particularly relevant for critical infrastructures such as energy or healthcare providers.

3. Encryption

All data transmitted within and outside the network must be encrypted to ensure the integrity and confidentiality of the information. Encryption ensures that even in the event of access by unauthorized third parties, the data remains unreadable.

Today, encryption is not just a good practice but a necessity to meet data protection and security requirements, as demanded by the NIS 2 Directive. This particularly protects data that could be exposed in a security incident.

4. Automated Threat Detection and Response

Implementing a powerful system for real-time threat detection and response is essential to quickly identify and counter potential security breaches. These systems use machine learning and AI to detect unusual patterns in network traffic and immediately initiate measures to mitigate damage.

By detecting and addressing security breaches early, companies can minimize damage and meet the NIS 2 requirements for rapid response and reporting. This directly supports the reporting obligations for security incidents.

Success Factors for Implementing Zero-trust Solutions

Change Management and Training Programs

Implementing Zero-trust solutions requires more than just technological adjustments. It is equally important to change the corporate culture so that new security practices are accepted and regularly applied. To achieve this, comprehensive training programs should be implemented to provide employees with a deep understanding and confidence in the new model. Successful change management can facilitate the transition and ensure that the new security measures are effectively implemented.

Support from Management

The introduction of Zero-trust approaches requires support from top management to ensure that the necessary resources are provided and that security measures are treated as a strategic priority. Leaders must raise awareness that cybersecurity is not just a technical necessity but a crucial factor for business success. Through management’s commitment, a sustainable security culture can be developed that protects the company in the long term.

Conclusion: Zero Trust as the Key to NIS 2 Compliance and Enhanced Cyber Resilience

In light of the NIS 2 Directive and the associated stricter cybersecurity requirements, implementing a Zero-trust data exchange model should no longer be an option but a necessity for European organizations. With its fundamental principle “Never trust, always verify,” Zero Trust offers a robust shield against external and internal threats.

The integration of Zero-trust strategies allows you to strengthen your security protocols and achieve NIS 2 compliance through robust authentication processes, micro-segmentation, and encryption, while also increasing resilience against cyber threats. This minimizes security risks and saves costs in the long run. (And also any potential fines.)

Through Zero Trust, European organizations can prepare for a future where data is exchanged securely, efficiently, and transparently – a crucial step towards a safer digital future in the European single market.

Kiteworks: Zero Trust for Maximum Protection of Sensitive Data

A proactive Zero-trust strategy not only provides protection but also the necessary resilience and agility for a secure digital future. The successful transition to a Zero-trust security model therefore requires a structured approach that goes beyond classic network security. Data classification, identity-based access controls, encryption, continuous monitoring, and cloud security are essential building blocks to effectively protect sensitive information, prevent unauthorized access, and consistently meet regulatory requirements. 

Kiteworks applies Zero Trust where it matters: directly at the data. Instead of relying solely on network boundaries, Kiteworks offers a Zero-trust Data Exchange Platform that authenticates every access, encrypts every transmission, and monitors every interaction – regardless of where the data is located. With Kiteworks’ features, the protection of sensitive information is ensured throughout its entire lifecycle.

• Comprehensive encryption of all data at rest and in transit with AES-256 technology
• Granular access controls with dynamic policies that adapt based on user behavior and data sensitivity
• Automated compliance checks for regulatory requirements such as GDPR, BDSG, and industry-specific standards
• Detailed logging of all access attempts with AI-supported anomaly detection and real-time threat response
• Ownerless editing without local file storage for secure document collaboration

By introducing Kiteworks’ data-driven Zero-trust model, you can reduce your attack surface, ensure compliance with data protection regulations, and protect sensitive content against evolving cyber threats.

The Private Content Network from Kiteworks offers sophisticated access controls that combine granular permissions with multi-factor authentication (MFA) to ensure that every user and device is thoroughly verified before accessing sensitive information. Through strategic micro-segmentation, Kiteworks creates secure, isolated network environments that prevent lateral movement of threats while maintaining operational efficiency.

Furthermore, end-to-end encryption protects data both during transmission and at rest with powerful encryption protocols such as AES 256 Encryption and TLS 1.3. Finally, a CISO Dashboard and comprehensive audit logs provide extensive monitoring and logging capabilities, offering companies complete transparency over all system activities and enabling a rapid response to potential security incidents.

For companies seeking a proven Zero-trust solution that does not compromise on security or usability, Kiteworks offers a compelling solution. To learn more, schedule a personalized demo today.