Key points:
- Zero trust is akin to modern, agile defense systems that scrutinize every object seeking entry
- Embracing zero trust is an investment in a school’s future–and also a commitment to safeguarding knowledge and innovation
- See related article: CISOs are increasingly nervous as cyberattacks lurk
Educators and administrators are holding their breath at the dawn of another academic year. They are well aware that schools are increasingly targeted by hackers, with 1 in 4 falling victim to cyberattacks in the past 12 months.
These hallowed halls of knowledge store vast amounts of sensitive data, from student records to financial information. Consequently, this makes them attractive targets. To make matters worse, growing connected device networks and remote learning opportunities present even more vulnerabilities.
A paradigm shift from traditional perimeter-based security to a more robust and dynamic approach is increasingly necessary. As a result, zero trust is gaming ground across all sectors as today’s go-to cybersecurity approach. For example, the White House is ordering all civilian government agencies to establish and implement a zero trust plan by the end of next year. Let’s explore why schools should follow this lead.
Leveraging zero trust in education
The traditional approach to cybersecurity revolves around perimeter-based security, a method that trusts anything within the organization’s boundaries. But as threats grow in sophistication, so must cybersecurity. Instead of fortifying the perimeter like medieval castles, zero trust is akin to modern, agile defense systems that scrutinize every object seeking entry.
Apu Pavithran is the founder and CEO of Hexnode. Recognized in the IT management community as a consultant, speaker, and thought leader, Apu is passionate about entrepreneurship and spends significant time working with startups and empowering young entrepreneurs.
- Cohort connections matter: Strategies to help graduate students persist and succeed - August 14, 2026
- Higher education needs better AI experiences, not more AI tools - August 12, 2026
- Beyond a keynote speaker: A strategic roadmap for AI in higher education - August 10, 2026