Overcoming Cyber Security Challenges With Industry 4.0

The fourth industrial revolution has brought several next-gen technologies under one roof, driving transformations across many industries. Also known as Industry 4.0, it creates an intelligent software environment that is driven by automation across various enterprise processes. To achieve automation, it combines the most advanced technologies like Artificial Intelligence (AI), Internet of Things (IoT), Blockchain, ERP, and Cloud Computing. 

The advent of Industry 4.0 has streamlined and accelerated smart manufacturing processes, mainly through IoT implementation. At the same time, however, it has brought new operational challenges by exposing manufacturing data to the internet. Besides, the increasing instances of hacking, phishing, malware, DDoS attacks, brute force, and other types of attacks have raised serious concerns to strengthen cybersecurity. It is, therefore, essential to formulate an effective organizational strategy to strengthen cybersecurity systems in-line with Industry 4.0 technologies. Nevertheless, when monitored carefully, Industry 4.0 technologies can significantly reduce cybersecurity challenges.   

Let’s discuss the main cybersecurity challenges with the fourth industrial revolution and how businesses can overcome them.  

Overcoming Cyber Security Challenges 

Industry 4.0 has paved the way for a new era of connected devices, digitizing the manufacturing, warehousing, and supply chain processes. However, connecting these devices to the internet has imposed an even greater risk of cybersecurity. 

In smart manufacturing, as more and more devices are connected to the internet, it exposes them to the reach of hackers and black hats. These malicious entities can gain access to these devices for extortion. It also makes these devices vulnerable to data breaches. According to Security Intelligence, a single data breach in industrial manufacturing costs $5.2 million. Over the last decade, there have been several hacking instances and extortion cases, especially in the crypto and blockchain networks. As the modern-day smart manufacturing processes are greatly influenced by blockchain and IoT, it is essential to take stern preventive measures. 

Below are the key preventive measures that smart manufacturers must take to ensure an optimum level of cybersecurity. 

Also read Overcoming Smart Home Automation Challenge

Network Infrastructure

During the initial phases of network infrastructure design, it is essential to create an effective network security policy. These policies are written documents that outline usage terms and access permissions to formulate effective risk management strategies. Smart manufacturing companies must also adopt a strong password policy to develop immunity against DDoS and brute force attacks.

Network Updates

Keeping your enterprise network up-to-date is equally important to deal with potential security threats. Hackers will always look for small network vulnerabilities and loopholes to exploit the network. Needless to say, the old software versions are more prone to cyber-attacks. It is, therefore advisable to keep updating your business operating systems and protect them with the latest antivirus programs and firewalls.

Use of Firewalls

It is always advisable to install robust firewall applications to keep your organization safe from the looming cybercriminals. Despite being an indispensable part of the network security, many organizations, especially in smart manufacturing, do not use them effectively. A firewall application, when deployed in smart manufacturing, will continuously monitor the processes and block access to unauthorized personnel. 

Event Monitoring

Event monitoring is a critical part of smart manufacturing and must be followed diligently to ensure maximum protection against online threats. It ensures that all enterprise processes are performed exactly as planned with minimal disruptions from third-party entities.

Log Management

Log management is a critical business function that directly impacts the workforce productivity and overall operational efficiency. Effective log management enables business operators to gain better control over the manufacturing equipment and IoT devices. It further aids in troubleshooting glitches, avoiding system failure, and restricts data access on a departmental basis.  

You may also be interested in reading Understanding The Benefits Of Industrial Internet Of Things

 

The Bottom Line

Modernization in industries is essential to keep pace with the dynamically changing market trends. Industry 4.0 technologies are driving a digital transformation across many industries apart from smart manufacturing. While it raises some trivial security concerns, it can not undermine the greater benefits it delivers. Understandably, the cybersecurity concerns with Industry 4.0 are real but taking requisite precautions will enable enterprises to overcome these challenges for the greater good. 

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We are a 360-degree software development company that specializes in providing end-to-end IoT app development and enterprise blockchain solutions. Our development team is experienced in using Industry 4.0 technologies like blockchain, IoT, AI, and cloud computing to drive digital growth across industries. We have successfully completed several full-scale enterprise software development projects for startups, SMEs, and large-scale enterprises.