In the era of increased connectivity, power management equipment is emerging as a critical component for ensuring cyber defense in enterprises. As more devices become interconnected, businesses must take necessary steps to protect potential entry points from cyber attackers. By striking a balance between connectivity and security, enterprises can gain the benefits of IoT and utilize advanced solutions like predictive analytics to streamline operations and make proactive, data-driven decisions.
One area that is becoming particularly vulnerable to cyber threats is power devices, which are being integrated into expanding network infrastructures. To address this issue, the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency and the Department of Energy issued a warning earlier this year, urging organizations to take immediate steps to mitigate attacks against network-connected uninterruptible power supply (UPS) devices.
To enhance cyber defenses and strengthen trust with customers, enterprises should evaluate their current cybersecurity strategies and incorporate power management. Gartner predicts that by 2025, 60% of organizations will prioritize cybersecurity risk in third-party transactions and business engagements. By demonstrating a comprehensive cybersecurity approach that includes power management, enterprises can assure customers and partners that they take network threats seriously.
To establish a strong cybersecurity benchmark, IT teams can refer to global safety standards provided by organizations like Underwriters Laboratories (UL) and the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC). These standards offer guidelines for implementing appropriate cybersecurity safeguards in network-connected devices, including those in the power management space. By deploying UPSs with certifications such as UL 2900-1 and ISA/IEC 62443-4-2, IT teams can have confidence that their devices were developed with cybersecurity in mind.
In addition to utilizing power management solutions with built-in cybersecurity capabilities, enterprises should employ best practices for power management technologies across their interconnected networks. These practices include using firewall and industrial security solutions, encrypting information, conducting routine security assessments, regularly updating antivirus software and antispyware, using advanced email filtering, establishing robust password policies and end point protection, and providing employees with cybersecurity awareness training.
Enterprises should also consider implementing remote firmware updates to ensure the latest features and security patches are installed. Choosing power devices that require cryptographic signatures for firmware updates can help prevent cybersecurity risks. Additionally, partnering with vendors that offer 24/7 monitoring in converged IT/operational technology (OT) environments adds an extra layer of protection and visibility for critical infrastructure.
Furthermore, power management software can provide an economical air gap solution by physically isolating secure networks from unsecured ones. Organizations like Grandeur Housing utilize this method to safeguard against ransomware attacks while enhancing overall cybersecurity. Power management software also allows IT teams to stay up to date with emerging cybersecurity threats like the Ripple20 vulnerabilities, which surfaced during the early days of the pandemic and put many internet-connected devices at risk.
To ensure ongoing protection against cybersecurity risks, enterprises can benefit from partnering with technology and solutions providers committed to safeguarding against emerging threats. This collaboration enables continuous monitoring of distributed networks and the ability to quickly implement necessary updates as new threats are identified.
While physical security may be overlooked, it is crucial for protecting power devices and other IT equipment. Attackers can exploit physical infrastructure to target critical data. Measures such as implementing smart security locks on IT racks can help ensure that only authorized personnel have access to these components.
As IT infrastructure becomes increasingly interconnected, enterprises must acknowledge the importance of assessing the cybersecurity capabilities of their power management equipment. Safeguarding every network access point against potential cyber threats is essential. By securing power devices as part of a comprehensive network defense, enterprises can confidently embrace connectivity without compromising cybersecurity.
About the Author:
James Martin is the global connectivity product manager at Eaton. With over a decade of experience promoting Eaton’s software and connectivity solutions, James has built trusted technical adviser relationships with channel partners, field sales, and sales operations. He can be reached at jamesmartin@eaton.com and more information about Eaton can be found on their company website at https://www.eaton.com/us/en-us.html.