Secure-by-Design CI/CD Pipelines: A Zero Trust Framework for Cloud-Native Deployment Automation

Abstract

The rapid evolution of cloud-native architectures and continuous deployment practices necessitates a fundamental shift in securing CI/CD pipelines. A novel zero trust framework introduces security controls as first-class entities within pipeline architecture, enforcing continuous verification throughout the software delivery lifecycle. The framework leverages policy-as-code, ephemeral build environments, and cryptographically verified artifact provenance to establish tamper-proof supply chains. Case studies demonstrate significant reductions in security incidents while improving deployment efficiency. The framework's adaptive risk scoring mechanism dynamically adjusts pipeline controls based on contextual threat intelligence and change impact evaluation, addressing the challenges of securing complex cloud-native deployments while maintaining velocity. The integration of machine learning enhances threat detection capabilities, while automated incident response mechanisms ensure rapid mitigation of security events. Implementation strategies emphasize incremental adoption, comprehensive team training, and continuous monitoring, establishing a robust foundation for secure software delivery in modern cloud environments.