Harness the Power of Networking to Secure Industrial Operations
This white paper delves into the reasons for using a converged architecture in industrial networks, including how it delivers simplicity and cost savings.
Why are traditional security methods insufficient for industrial operations?
Traditional security methods often fall short because they rely on multiple point security products, which can increase costs and complexity. As industrial networks become more digitized and interconnected, the need for seamless communication between IT, cloud, and industrial networks grows. The airgap approach is no longer effective, and organizations need integrated solutions that provide visibility and enforce security policies across their entire operations.
How can organizations achieve visibility in their industrial networks?
To achieve visibility, organizations should first obtain an accurate inventory of all devices on their network. This involves using technologies like Deep Packet Inspection (DPI) to decode communication flows and gather asset information. By embedding DPI capabilities into networking equipment, organizations can monitor traffic locally and gain insights into device communications without the need for additional hardware, thus minimizing costs and operational overhead.
What is the role of segmentation in industrial network security?
Defining zones and conduits is essential for restricting communications between assets, which helps prevent the spread of attacks. Each zone should contain assets with similar security requirements, while conduits facilitate communication between zones under strict security policies. Organizations can leverage solutions like Cisco Identity Services Engine (ISE) to enforce these policies dynamically, allowing for easier management and adaptation as the industrial environment evolves.
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