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Cybersecurity

How Industrial-Strength Security Protects the Industrial Internet of Things

Billions of sensors are in use across manufacturing industries to generate data streams and monitor the ubiquitous Internet of Things (IoT). Connecting these devices creates both opportunity and risk as data flows faster. Secure connections for each sensor, at every step, are critical for data protection.

For decades, manufacturers primarily used highly secure private networks to control critical plant functions. This is known as Operational Technology (OT). But in recent years, oil and gas and other manufacturing industries have started considering and implementing IoT applications that enable more widespread and cost-effective monitoring and control of facilities, while also reducing costs and increasing flexibility.

By definition, Industrial IoT applications require moving data from existing private networks through the global internet to remote experts and supply chain partners. That requires security to be front and center. At Emerson, we see complex security measures that ensure critical operations data remain both accessible to those who need it – and safe from those who don’t.

 

Emerson's Four-Zone Security Framework

With 25+ years of experience in smart sensors, wireless technologies, and digital automation, Emerson delivers a wide array of secure, networked OT solutions to oil and gas and other industries. As a leader in Industrial IoT, we’ve seen one universal truth: the growth of Industrial IoT is successful when engineered securely across critical zones so that manufacturers can operate with confidence.

Emerson’s digital ecosystem helps manufacturers adopt Industrial IoT to automate processes and maximize efficiency across four zones:

Zone 1: Sensors

Real Time Integrated Security

  • Devices and wireless networks measure and track everything from energy efficiency and hazardous gas leaks to corrosion and maintenance needs. 
  • Designed with always-on security capabilities front and center, sensors include encryption and key management which makes it suitable for use in critical OT systems.

Zone 2: The “First Mile”

Secure Internet Gateway

  • The connections between a facility’s private OT network and the internet as the “first mile”. These are designed to allow companies to selectively connect highly secure OT data with highly secure private or cloud networks for real-time analysis. 
  • A secure “first mile” can be achieved using a tiered network infrastructure to connect the OT network to the internet. 
  • Tiered networks provide security by protecting different tiers with specialized firewalls and applications.

Zone 3: Data Storage & Software

Cloud-Based Intelligence

  • Many third-party application providers, like Emerson, are taking advantage of leading cloud computing environments (e.g. Microsoft Azure) that have already proven their strong security among IT departments of many leading corporations.  
  • This approach relies on services most companies have already vetted and have met the most stringent global security certifications and regional requirements.

Zone 4: People and Policies 

Access Control and Compliance

  • To maximize security and the value of data, manufacturers need to develop and enforce clear security policies for all employees who interact with IoT network elements.
  • Access to equipment, software, and facilities where Industrial IoT is deployed should be limited to employees with a direct need and strictly controlled. 

Industrial manufacturers are quickly learning that the right strategy for Industrial IoT adoption is a scalable one…beginning with a specific business problem to solve. With proven solutions in place for every layer of security, we see Emerson helping manufacturers adopt Industrial IoT technologies with confidence.

Ready to secure your IoT offerings? Learn how Emerson can help you secure Industrial IoT Solutions.

 

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