The Unified Namespace (UNS) is increasingly viewed as a critical architecture approach in manufacturing environments as it enables effective communication between devices, equipment, platforms, and systems. As with all technology architectures, cybersecurity is an essential consideration.
In this blog, we’ll give an overview of cybersecurity best practices to protect systems, data, and the UNS.
Cybersecurity Challenge
A UNS architecture creates a platform for the modernisation of manufacturing where key business objectives can be achieved such as improving quality, productivity, OEE, compliance, and operational competitiveness. As a result, UNS architectures are becoming essential for digital transformation success in manufacturing.
With all new technologies and strategies, there are challenges in addition to advantages and benefits. One of the challenges with a UNS architecture is cybersecurity.
Understanding UNS cybersecurity challenges is, in many respects, a simple equation. A UNS architecture enables the more widespread integration of devices, systems, and platforms to facilitate significantly enhanced communication via an MQTT (message queuing telemetry transport) broker.
More integration and communication combine to increase the potential attack surface in a manufacturing organisation, i.e., points at which bad actors and cyber criminals can attempt to intercept or infiltrate. The implementation of an MQTT broker is the best example of this increased attack surface.
A larger potential attack surface is an important consideration for all manufacturing companies, but it arguably has greater significance in the life sciences sector where issues such as patient safety and patient data are top of mind, in addition to valuable intellectual property.
A Balanced Approach
Cybersecurity risks should not prevent or delay the adoption of a UNS architecture approach. After all, the only way to get close to full protection against cybersecurity risks is to eliminate all integration and communication. This is not feasible in the modern world, so a balanced approach is needed, where cybersecurity considerations are at the top of mind when developing and implementing UNS solutions.
A balanced approach involves following best practices with robust cybersecurity protections while ensuring data can flow within the network without delays or restrictions.
UNS Cybersecurity Best Practices
Access Control
Controlling access to data, authorising clients to publish data, and authorising clients to subscribe to data are crucial steps to ensure the UNS architecture is secure. Best practices include:
- Implement role-based access control to assign permissions.
- Authenticate users with strong usernames and passwords.
- Define access control rules with access control lists (ACLs) to allow for more nuanced and detailed control.
Encryption
The MQTT messaging protocol doesn’t encrypt data by default, but most MQTT brokers support TLS (transport layer security). Therefore, TLS should be implemented to encrypt data while it is in transit. VPNs and secure WebSockets can be used as alternatives if TLS is not suitable.
Firewall
The UNS infrastructure should be secured with firewalls to block traffic that is either unexpected or unnecessary.
Data Governance
UNS cybersecurity best practices include adopting robust data governance processes. Implementing data standards, policies, and procedures are all essential elements of good data governance.
Training
It is important to train staff on data governance. Training should also be provided on the proper use of systems and the security implications that exist when there is deviation from procedures or a lack of vigilance.
Securing the Unified Namespace
Securing the Unified Namespace is essential and can be achieved with robust cybersecurity strategies that utilise access control protocols, technologies like encryption, and the skills of employees through training. Security in the Unified Namespace is also not a one-time effort. Instead, it should be ongoing, with continuous improvement being a central focus to protect operations and respond to new threats.
