# Augmenting Zero Trust Architecture to Endpoints Using Blockchain: A State-of-The-Art Review

arXiv: https://arxiv.org/abs/2104.00460 · HTML: https://mlsanity.com/paper/2104.00460/

## Key facts

- Cited by 2 papers in the map (data through 14 Oct 2026).
- First posted on arXiv 1 Apr 2021.

## Built on by (most cited first, 2 of 2)

- [Intelligent Zero Trust Architecture for 5G/6G Networks: Principles, Challenges, and the Role of Machine Learning in the context of O-RAN](https://mlsanity.com/paper/2105.01478/) (2021)
- ["X of Information'' Continuum: A Survey on AI-Driven Multi-dimensional Metrics for Next-Generation Networked Systems](https://mlsanity.com/paper/2507.19657/) (2025)

## Abstract (arXiv)

With the purpose of defending against lateral movement in today's borderless networks, Zero Trust Architecture (ZTA) adoption is gaining momentum. With a full scale ZTA implementation, it is unlikely that adversaries will be able to spread through the network starting from a compromised endpoint. However, the already authenticated and authorised session of a compromised endpoint can be leveraged to perform limited, though malicious, activities ultimately rendering the endpoints the Achilles heel of ZTA. To effectively detect such attacks, distributed collaborative intrusion detection systems with an attack scenario-based approach have been developed. Nonetheless, Advanced Persistent Threats (APTs) have demonstrated their ability to bypass this approach with a high success ratio. As a result, adversaries can pass undetected or potentially alter the detection logging mechanisms to achieve a stealthy presence. Recently, blockchain technology has demonstrated solid use cases in the cyber security domain. In this paper, motivated by the convergence of ZTA and blockchain-based intrusion detection and prevention, we examine how ZTA can be augmented onto endpoints. Namely, we perform a state-of-the-art review of ZTA models, real-world architectures with a focus on endpoints, and blockchain-based intrusion detection systems. We discuss the potential of blockchain's immutability fortifying the detection process and identify open challenges as well as potential solutions and future directions.