Data security in the IIoT is only going one way
The Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) is a rapidly growing field that brings together operational technology (OT) and information technology (IT) to improve efficiency and productivity in industrial settings. However, with this increased connectivity comes a greater need for data security. The traditional method for maintaining security was to implement an air gap, a physical disconnect between systems with differing security requirements. However, with the advent of the internet and the need to share data across domains, this approach is becoming increasingly obsolete.
One solution to this problem is to focus on security at the physical layer of the OSI model. The OSI model is often used in discussions about security and it is divided into seven layers, with the Application Layer at the top and the Physical Layer at the bottom. The Physical Layer is responsible for converting data into electrical, optical, or radio frequency (RF) signals that can be physically transferred over a connection. It is at this layer that most successful hacks begin, with attackers gaining access to a network through unsecured USB drivers or other physical connections.
To address this vulnerability, many experts are turning to hardware-based security solutions, such as data diodes. A data diode is a one-way network device that allows data to flow in only one direction, effectively creating a physical barrier between networks with differing security requirements. By adding a data diode at the physical layer, organizations can increase their protection from cyberattacks and ensure that sensitive data remains secure.
nother solution is to implement deep packet inspection (DPI) at the physical layer. DPI is a method of analyzing network traffic at the packet level, which can detect and block malicious traffic before it reaches higher layers of the OSI model. While it is difficult to add DPI to detect threats at the PHY layer, it is possible and it could be used as an additional layer of security.
In conclusion, the rise of the IIoT has led to an increased need for data security in industrial settings. The traditional air gap approach is becoming obsolete, and experts are turning to hardware-based security solutions such as data diodes and deep packet inspection at the physical layer to protect against cyberattacks. By focusing on security at the Physical Layer, organizations can better protect their sensitive data and ensure the integrity of their industrial systems.
