Integrated Cyber Defense Strategies for the Modern Digital Ecosystem: Evaluating Zero Trust Models, AI-Driven Threat Intelligence, and Secure Cloud Architecture for Resilient Infrastructure Protection

https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.18207381

Abstract

The rapid expansion of digital ecosystems, driven by cloud computing, interconnected networks, and data-centric operations, has intensified the need for advanced and adaptive cybersecurity strategies. This study evaluates the combined effectiveness of Zero Trust Architecture, AI-driven threat intelligence, and secure cloud infrastructure in strengthening organizational resilience against evolving cyber threats. Using simulated cyberattacks, access control analytics, intrusion detection logs, and cloud performance assessments, the research examines how each component contributes to proactive risk mitigation and enhanced system reliability. The implementation of Zero Trust principles demonstrated substantial improvements in access governance, reducing unauthorized lateral movement and limiting attack surfaces. Meanwhile, AI-based threat intelligence engines significantly improved detection accuracy, enabling real-time identification of anomalies and automated incident response. Additionally, secure cloud architecture—with its encryption layers, segmentation controls, and dynamic policy enforcement—proved essential in sustaining system performance while maintaining strict security compliance. The integrated approach produced measurable gains in threat prevention, resilience, and operational continuity across public, private, and hybrid cloud environments. The findings confirm that traditional perimeter-focused models are insufficient for modern infrastructures and that a unified, multilayered defense strategy is crucial. This research concludes that organizations adopting intelligent, Zero Trust-aligned cloud frameworks can effectively navigate emerging threats and build a more robust, adaptable cybersecurity posture.