The shift to remote production workflows, initially spurred by the pandemic, has become the norm for many major broadcasters. This necessitates a more stringent security approach, leading to a surge in the adoption of Zero Trust Network Access (ZTNA) systems.

Unlike traditional security models that treat everyone inside the network as trustworthy, ZTNA operates on the principle of "never trust, always verify." Every user and device seeking access to network resources, regardless of location, must undergo continuous verification. “Remote production and mobile editing aren’t just pandemic holdovers—they’re now standard practice,” said Eric Elbaz, principal strategic engagement manager at Akamai. “Broadcasters need to meet their teams where they are—on location, at home, on the go—by using solutions like Zero Trust Network Access, encrypted file transfers and ongoing device monitoring.”

This model functions similarly to a diligent security guard, constantly checking credentials even for known users and monitoring for anomalies like access attempts from unusual locations or times. “Strategies should include implementation of robust access controls, such as multi-factor authentication and zero trust architectures, to limit access to sensitive materials only to authorized individuals,” said Terri Davies, president of the Trusted Partner Network (TPN).

The increased collaboration across geographical boundaries and the use of diverse devices introduce numerous security vulnerabilities. Sam Peterson, COO at Bitcentral, highlighted unauthorized access and data breaches as major threats. “In production specifically, threats like signal interception and network breaches endanger both the safety and confidentiality of media assets,” Peterson noted.

To mitigate these risks, broadcasters are layering security measures, including end-to-end encryption and continuous monitoring, alongside ZTNA. This comprehensive approach verifies user identity, secures data transmission, and detects potential breaches. This also extends to third-party vendors, with Davies emphasizing the importance of partner compliance to “raise awareness and fully understand their security preparedness so they can address vulnerabilities and reduce risk.”

Implementing ZTNA involves a substantial overhaul of security protocols, requiring asset inventories, data flow mapping, and the establishment of clear access control policies. It impacts all personnel, from production assistants to cloud architects, demanding adjustments to daily workflows. However, experts emphasize the benefits of enhanced security without compromising the flexibility and efficiency of remote production.