Companies need to adapt their IT‑ and security architectures to a working environment in which employees work from different locations, data is stored in multiple systems and numerous regulatory requirements need to be met. Traditional perimeter models reach their limits here.

Security architecture and zero trust: from principle to practice

A sustainable security architecture therefore combines zero trust principles such as continuous verification, least privilege and assume breach with clear guard rails, automation and measurable results. In this way, security becomes plannable, predictable and scalable, regardless of whether workloads are operated on premises, in the cloud or as software as a service (SaaS).

What we mean by a strong security architecture

A modern security architecture is aligned with business objectives and makes security decisions traceable. At its core are standardised architecture modules, standards and guidelines that are integrated into development processes, operating procedures and governance. This reduces complexity, prevents uncontrolled expansion of the toolset and creates transparency regarding risks and responsibilities for identities and devices, for networks and applications and for data.

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Our range of services is modular, pragmatic and impact-oriented

In the Assessment and Strategy module, we carry out a maturity analysis along the zero- trust domains, prioritise use cases and define a realistic target picture.
In the Architecture and Design module, we develop a reference architecture, derive guidelines and security patterns and specify risk-based access, segmentation, encryption and data access models.
In the Implementation and Enablement module, we pilot prioritised controls and automate implementation with Infrastructure as Code and Policy as Code. We integrate the results into operational processes and security operations (SecOps) and empower the teams involved through training and coaching.

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Procedure model with quickly visible results and secure scaling

We start with a common target picture and then analyse the existing controls. We create a target design and clarify priorities and dependencies. We develop a roadmap that makes business added value visible. We implement prioritised measures, automate their implementation and transfer the results to operations. We continuously improve effectiveness based on findings and feedback. Each work package delivers actionable results such as use cases, playbooks, policies or dashboards while strengthening governance.

Architecture Domains

We secure identities and access

by establishing strong authentication, implementing risk-based authorisation and applying just-in-time (JIT) and just-enough-access (JEA) models.
We increase the security of devices and endpoints

by testing device status as an authorisation criterion, hardening devices and enabling rapid response capability.
We protect networks and connectivity

by using micro and macro segmentation, utilising private access models and encrypting connections.
We strengthen applications and workloads

by establishing secure build processes, hardening runtime environments and protecting programming interfaces.
We protect data

by introducing classification and labelling, applying encryption and enforcing controls on the use of data.
We increase visibility and automation

by centralising and analysing security-relevant logs, setting up monitoring, automatically enforcing policies and using infrastructure as code.

Tech ecosystem & alliances

We integrate leading platforms such as

Microsoft,
Amazon Web Services (AWS) and
Google

and establish standardised policies, signals and workflows. The goal is a consolidated architecture that consistently enforces security rules and reduces operating costs. We do not commit ourselves to individual manufacturers.

Measurable results instead of promises

We work with you to define key performance indicators such as the time to detection and response, the reduction of overprivileged accounts, segmentation coverage or audit-proof audit evidence. We anchor these metrics in dashboards and regular reviews so that progress becomes visible and controllable.

Why KPMG

We combine expertise and industry understanding and use tried-and-tested methods and scalable architectural approaches.
We pursue an integrated approach that encompasses strategy, architecture, implementation and operational integration.
We value sustainable enablement and strengthen teams, processes and culture, not just technologies.