CIP Security meets a significant number of IEC 62443-4-2 requirements and implements robust and ubiquitous security technologies to achieve protection of the control system device. These technologies can be part of an IEC 62443-4-2 security certification, and apply to the system level through IEC 62443-3-3.

As devices are being constantly added to networks, device security is of paramount concern to asset owners. Complete system-level security must be built upon the foundations that consist of each individual component’s security functions, along with cybersecurity standards such as IEC 62443.

Data diodes offer a hardware-enforced solution to defend OT networks and safety systems, using one-way flow of data without allowing returning threats. As always, defensive strategies must still combine people, processes, and technology all working together to support OT network security.

To address security’s complex, changing nature, system designers need to understand security risks and their environment, along with the security tools they have to work with. Security experts recognize several elements of system security including physical security, policies and procedures, and network security.

IoT security is an umbrella term that includes network, internet, endpoint, API, cloud, application, container security and more. It’s about establishing a set of security strategies that work together to help protect your digital data. Security is an ongoing process that includes continuous monitoring and a clear response plan.

By following federal and industry standards and implementing a defense-in-depth approach to cybersecurity, hydrocarbon professionals in the oil and gas industry will be better prepared to prevent the financial, informational and physical risks that can result from a cyber-attack.

Industrial IoT (IIoT) offers the promise of business outcomes through the use of innovative technology. The challenge for industrial operations is to develop a balanced security stance to take advantage of IIoT innovation while maintaining the integrity of industrial security best practices.

Cyber-attacks have increased over time and require a more comprehensive, proactive approach for industry to protect critical systems. Protecting control systems will be an ongoing responsibility that everyone must share by following standards and implementing a defense-in-depth approach to cybersecurity.

Field devices of the future will combine sensing and actuating with manufacturing execution and control. These devices will not only be networked, but some of them will be directly connected to the enterprise system, internet and cloud services as well, which greatly increases cyber security risk within the system.

The CIP Security pull model allows a device to automatically request a certificate for use as a secure identity. After establishing a secure identity, the device can now participate in secure communications, and creates a mechanism for sending other needed configuration information in a protected manner.