Education is an essential step in achieving a sustainable security posture

Starting on December 5th Westermo will host a series of webinars on the fundamentals of Cybersecurity in industrial networks.

Even though cyber-attacks continue to increase in scale, both in terms of numbers and the damage they can cause, many owners of Industrial Control Systems still have a long way to go to achieve a sustainable security posture. There are no easy solutions, but by focusing on a combination of people, processes and technology, Westermo can help in securing systems and assets.

"Most companies and authorities have realised that cyber-attacks are a real threat that must be taken seriously. Some have come a long way in protecting their systems and assets, while others have not taken their first step yet. We want to change that," says Niklas Mörth, Cybersecurity Product Manager at Westermo.

"There are many standards, directives and government agencies that define ways to deal with cybersecurity, for example the IEC62443 standard that tries to secure Industrial Automation and Control Systems or the ISO2700x-series that provide guidance in establishing an Information Security Management System. In my role, I often see that network owners are looking for simple solutions and easy answers. But in reality, there are no shortcuts, there is no single technology and there is no network device or a process that automatically makes your system secure. It's about working with a combination of people, processes and technology.

“Educating people in cybersecurity is an essential step, and starting on December 5th Westermo will host a series of webinars on the subject, where we will go through the basic aspects relating to securing industrial networks. We will mix practical applications with theory, concrete examples and advice. Anyone who wants to learn more about the fundamentals of cybersecurity for industrial networks will benefit from participating in these short lectures.

“There are many different processes and techniques that help in securing industrial networks, and Westermo has the tools that enable them to be easily created and maintained. For example, our configuration tool WeConfig makes it possible to quickly and easily apply basic security features, automate tedious processes such as adding MAC filters, document network configuration, and specify a security baseline. Basic security measures of this kind can often be overlooked because they are too complicated and time-consuming, but WeConfig overcomes these challenges.

“Technology changes rapidly and to remain at the forefront of new developments, Westermo has a dedicated cybersecurity team that continuously analyzes how the threat landscape is evolving. We are incredibly quick at detecting and rectifying any possible security vulnerability, and as all Westermo networking devices run the same operative system, WeOS, we can distribute updates and security patches faster than any other manufacturer. 

“Whether you have come a long way or if you are taking your first steps to securing your system and assets, Westermo will be a reliable partner for your people. We will provide robust and reliable technology, powered by WeOS, an operating system that is continuously updated to comply with the latest cybersecurity guidelines, as well as tools to build strong and simple processes.”