Manufacturing Magazine September 2024 | Page 24

EXECUTIVE INSIGHT
Q . WHAT ROBUST CYBERSECURITY STRATEGIES CAN MANUFACTURERS ADOPT TO SAFEGUARD OPERATIONS ?

ยป The interconnected nature of Industry 4.0 necessitates a layered cybersecurity strategy . Zero-trust architecture treats everything with suspicion , requiring constant authentication for access .

This creates secure zones within the network , isolating critical automation systems from less critical areas like office email . This segmentation limits the damage if a single point is compromised .
For high-performance applications , secure private wireless networks like cellular-grade 4G / 5G campus networks offer a reliable solution with built-in security protocol , trusted by Communication Service Providers ( CSPs ) globally .
Additionally , AI and Machine Learning can analyse user and machine behaviour to identify potential cyberattacks before disruptions occur .
Finally , legacy systems should not be overlooked . While a complete overhaul might not be feasible , security upgrades and vulnerability assessments can significantly mitigate the inherent risks associated with older equipment .
Digital transformation in manufacturing necessitates a multilayered approach to secure legacy systems . Dedicated private networks isolate them from broader threats , while on-premises edge computing minimises data exposure .
Platforms that seamlessly integrate with existing infrastructure ease the transition . These actions , combined with continuous monitoring and adaptation ,
24 September 2024