This master thesis deals with the concept of Zero Trust (ZT) in the context of Software-Defined Networking (SDN). It explores its potential to improve network security in the face of increasing cyber threats and data breaches. Despite its growing popularity, the effectiveness of the ZT model has not been sufficiently researched and evaluated in practice. This underlines the need for independent testing and a deeper understanding of its application. Therefore, the following research question was defined: “How can the Zero Trust model be integrated into a Software-Defined Networking environment to create a more secure and resilient network infrastructure?”

This study contributes to this knowledge gap by assessing the implementation of ZT in an SDN environment, analysing its strengths and weaknesses, and identifying opportunities for optimisation. Developing a ZT framework is a tangible outcome, encapsulating the insights gained through the assessment process. This framework provides a structured approach for organisations seeking to implement ZT in their SDN environments. These include features like granular access control, continuous authentication, and micro-segmentation. The thesis also addresses the organisational challenges and trade-offs associated with the integration of ZT in SDN environments and proposes mitigation strategies.

The findings underscore the effectiveness of adopting ZT principles in SDN, creating a more secure and resilient network infrastructure. The study contributes to the body of knowledge by providing practical insights to guide enterprises in enhancing their network security. It highlights ZT’s potential benefits and limitations, laying a foundation for further exploration and improvement in network security.