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hydrogen production plants . This entails developing and implementing flexible yet robust security measures that protect against current threats and can adapt to future challenges .
To protect hydrogen production plants from cyber threats , it is crucial to pursue a layered defense-in-depth strategy . This concept , recommended by the international standard IEC 62443 , involves implementing multiple layers of protection to safeguard a network or system against attacks . Since no single security measure can provide complete protection , this strategy overlays diverse security mechanisms to create a multi-layered defense . An attacker must overcome multiple hurdles to compromise the system , significantly reducing the likelihood of a successful intrusion . This approach is divided into three critical levels , each tailored to specific vulnerabilities and risks : plant security , network security , and system integrity .
Plant security
Plant security encompasses a range of procedures to secure the entire facility , including both physical and digital protection mechanisms . This level focuses on preventing unauthorized physical access to critical infrastructure through conventional security measures such as secured building access and more sophisticated methods like key card systems for sensitive areas . Given the increasing demands on industrial security , plant operators face time and resource constraints that require proficient support . Siemens offers a range of tailored security services , encompassing everything from risk analysis and implementation of security measures to ongoing monitoring and regular updates . This comprehensive approach ensures optimal plant protection . Security assessments play a key role at this level , providing a thorough review of threats , vulnerabilities , and risks , along with recommendations for addressing identified security gaps . These assessments range from one-day on-site audits to comprehensive checks based on IEC 62443 standards to ensure that physical security measures such as access controls and organizational security measures such as policies and training are robust and effective .
Network security
With the growing convergence of IT and OT and the increasing need for remote access , network security becomes increasingly important . The goal of this layer is to protect automation networks from unauthorized access by closely monitoring all interfaces , whether between IT and OT networks or for remote access . Network segmentation , encrypted communication , and zero-trust principles ensure a secure architecture that separates critical areas and controls access through firewalls and secure authentication protocols . Segmenting security zones and securing communication between these segments are essential to prevent unauthorized data access and maintain system integrity . With the increase in remote work , this layer adapts to provide secure connections to development and production areas , with certificate-based , fully authenticated communication based on zero-trust principles playing a central role .
12 Hydrogen Tech World | Issue 16 | June 2024