Zero Standing Privileges vs. Traditional PAM: Understanding the Difference

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Securing privileged access is one of the hardest challenges in cybersecurity. Traditional Privileged Access Management (PAM) has long been the standard, but today’s threat landscape calls for something more dynamic: Zero Standing Privileges (ZSP).

This article breaks down the differences, showing why organizations are shifting from static, role-based models to just-in-time, least-privilege strategies.

The Five W’s of Privileged Access

Effective PAM begins with answering the Who, What, When, Where, and Why:

• Who - Identify privileged users and roles. Build a clear inventory and limit access based on job duties.
• What - Define the exact scope of privileged access across databases, systems, and features.
• When - Control the timing and duration of privileged access to reduce the window of risk.
• Where - Restrict access to approved systems, networks, and devices.
• Why - Ensure access is granted only for legitimate business needs.

This framework underpins both Traditional PAM and Zero Standing Privileges—but how they implement it is very different.

Traditional PAM

Traditional PAM is built on Role-Based Access Control (RBAC). Users are assigned static roles with predefined privileges, which simplifies administration but creates serious risks:

• Standing Privileges - Users retain access whether they need it or not.
• Over-Privileged Accounts - Static roles often exceed actual job requirements.
• Slow Adaptation - Changes require manual updates, delaying onboarding or de-provisioning.
• Compliance Challenges - Auditing and revoking access can be cumbersome.

While RBAC improves efficiency, it often leaves gaps that attackers exploit, especially when standing admin rights go unchecked.

Zero Standing Privileges (ZSP)

Zero Standing Privileges flips this model by removing permanent privileged access. Instead, rights are granted only when needed, for as long as needed.

• Just-in-Time (JIT) Privileges - Temporary elevation for specific tasks.
• Least Privilege by Default - Users start with no standing rights, minimizing exposure.
• Dynamic Access - Privileges expire automatically after use.
• Reduced Attack Surface - Eliminates unused or forgotten admin accounts.
• Operational Agility - Access adapts in real time to business needs.

This approach aligns with modern security frameworks like Zero Trust, where verification is continuous and access is always contextual.

Key Differences: ZSP vs. Traditional PAM

Why It Matters

• Traditional PAM offers structure and simplicity but struggles with flexibility.
• Zero Standing Privileges introduces agility, stronger security, and better compliance alignment.

For most organizations, ZSP is the logical evolution, particularly as threats escalate and compliance frameworks demand more evidence of least-privilege enforcement.

White Swan Security’s ZSP Advantage

White Swan Security helps organizations transition from static PAM to Zero Standing Privileges by:

• Implementing Just-in-Time privilege elevation.
• Enforcing least privilege without slowing operations.
• Providing continuous visibility and audit-ready reporting.
• Simplifying administration while improving user experience.

With ZSP, privileged access isn’t just managed, it’s secured, streamlined, and future-proof.