Managing Network Security

Summary

There is no doubt that network security for manufacturers is a top priority now more than ever. Controls engineers are constantly looking for ways to stave off cyberattacks and put action programs in place to help reduce security risks. The risks at the operational technology (OT) level are continually changing and keeping up with protecting a company’s operational technical infrastructure may seem time-consuming and costly. However, there are ways to ensure the safety of a company’s products, property and processes in a concise and cost-effective way.

Use proper Ethernet switches

On the most basic level, one of the ways to ensure security against outside hackers is to use the proper industrial Ethernet switches.

Some companies are happy with just the essential levels of networking, settling for low-cost options. This will get them the bare necessities to run their plant floor operations, usually in the form of an industrial unmanaged switch. These switches are an excellent option for networks with a control panel used for a plug-and-play option that has a fixed configuration. This keeps the information technology (IT) personnel from having to set up encryptions, prioritize channels, or create segregated devices to manage traffic and data. The downside of unmanaged switches is that they do not provide security functions.

Companies that have large networks may seek to have more than the basic functions of an unmanaged switch. With a slight increase in cost, the effectiveness of a lean managed switch can give controls engineers on the plant floor the peace of mind they need when running their systems. Lean managed switches can be configured to a company’s specifications, can monitor settings, turn off unused ports, set up and manage encryptions, as well as help protect the network and data from active threats. Virtual Local Area Networks (VLANs) can also be installed that reduce security risks and help increase network performance.



WAGO’s family of industrial Ethernet lean managed switches are designed to meet security and redundancy requirements and can be easily maintained by plant floor technicians. Emphasis has been placed on creating an intuitive and easy-to-use interface. The diagnostic dashboard allows quick system troubleshooting, even if users have no IT knowledge. With each port configured for specific connections, not only can transmission errors be detected, but improper connection or active threats can be revealed as well. Depending on the network size, switches come with either eight or 16 ports with two extra small form-factor pluggable (SFP) slots for connecting fiber optic cable for longer connections.

Looking ahead

Having a safe and secure network to help protect plant floor data and information should be paramount to ensuring a company’s ability to thrive in today’s digital age. While you may want or need to take more high-end security measures, simply making the change from an unmanaged to a lean managed industrial switch could save you from the major headache caused by a cyberattack.

_{This feature originally appeared in the AUTOMATION 2023: Cybersecurity & Connectivity ebook published in September.}