In industrial automation, data and communications security are of paramount importance. With the proliferation of programmable control software (PLC), interconnected industrial networks and the IOT, the need to protect these systems against cyber threats has become a top priority. The Transport Layer Security (TLS) communications security protocol plays a key role in this.
TLS: foundation and application
TLS is a cryptographic protocol widely used to secure communications on the Internet. Initially designed to ensure the confidentiality and integrity of data exchanged between browsers and web servers, TLS is now finding widespread application in a variety of fields, including industrial automation.
Securing industrial communications
In the context of industrial automation systems, TLS is used to secure communications between the various network components, such as PLCs, HMIs (Human Machine Interfaces), sensors and actuators. By setting up secure, encrypted connections, TLS prevents any unauthorised interception or modification of data and protects systems against cyber-attacks.
Compliance with the TLS standard
There are many benefits to implementing TLS in programmable control software, not least in terms of standards compliance. Standards compliance ensures that companies comply with data protection requirements, which is essential for maintaining quality and reputation. By complying with established security standards, companies demonstrate their commitment to quality and their ability to anticipate and prevent potential risks.
TLS in the straton software
STRATON AUTOMATION’s straton software incorporates a crucial security feature through the TLS (Transport Layer Security) protocol. This technology guarantees reliable authentication, ensuring the validity of the servers or clients with which a connection is established. This translates into a rigorous validation of the identity of the recipient, providing an additional layer of confidence in data exchanges. straton has implemented the OpenSSL library in several of its modules, including the 850, 870, DNP3, OPC UA, Modbus, T5 and MQTT protocols.
straton: Confidentiality and Protection Against Threats
Thanks to data encryption, each transmission is encrypted, reinforcing the confidentiality of the information exchanged. This security assurance is essential for companies operating in a variety of sectors, including energy, where critical infrastructure such as substations can be controlled remotely. By staying up-to-date with security vulnerabilities, straton ensures protection against emerging threats by supporting the latest versions of OpenSSL. As a result, organisations can be confident that their information is being transferred securely and reliably, ensuring business-critical operations run smoothly.
Conclusion
The importance of strengthening security in industrial automation systems cannot be underestimated, especially at a time when cyber threats are omnipresent. In this context, the Transport Layer Security (TLS) protocol plays a crucial role in ensuring the confidentiality, integrity and authentication of data exchanged within industrial networks.
By integrating this cutting-edge technology, as is the case with the straton software, companies can benefit from robust protection against cyber attacks while ensuring the reliability and security of their industrial operations. With secure connections, data encryption and proactive breach management, straton gives businesses the peace of mind they need to run their critical operations, while meeting the most stringent compliance and security requirements. By investing in security solutions such as those offered by TLS, businesses can not only protect their assets and sensitive data, but also ensure business continuity in an increasingly complex environment.
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