Sword Partners with ISA to Strengthen Cybersecurity Standards in Automation
Sword Partners with ISA to Strengthen Cybersecurity Standards in Automation
In a significant move to enhance cybersecurity standards in the field of industrial automation, Sword, a prominent player in IT investment and operational technology (OT) cybersecurity, has joined the ISA Global Cybersecurity Alliance (ISAGCA) and the ISASecure certification program. The announcement made by the International Society of Automation (ISA) emphasizes the organization's commitment to advancing cybersecurity measures to safeguard critical infrastructure.
What is ISAGCA and ISASecure?
The ISA Global Cybersecurity Alliance (ISAGCA) stands as a collaborative effort that aims to bolster awareness and education around OT cybersecurity. With over 50 member companies contributing to a collective revenue exceeding $1.5 trillion, ISAGCA focuses on standardizing practices and sharing knowledge vital for improving cybersecurity posture across diverse industries.
On the other hand, ISASecure is a certification program recognized globally that validates adherence to the ISA/IEC 62443 series of standards. This framework is designed specifically for industrial automation and control systems (IACS), ensuring that products and practices meet established cybersecurity benchmarks. This validation process is crucial for industry players looking to demonstrate and enhance the security capabilities of their systems and offerings.
Sword's Commitment to Cybersecurity
By joining both ISAGCA and ISASecure, Sword amplifies its commitment to security practices that follow industry standards throughout the OT lifecycle—from the initial system design and integration to ongoing operations and maintenance. Sword is determined to help critical infrastructure operators, manufacturers, and energy providers mitigate cybersecurity risks and enhance asset resilience in an increasingly complex digital landscape.
Stuart Townhill, a principal consultant at Sword, emphasized that their membership reflects a dedication to advancing operational cybersecurity through globally recognized standards and validation assurances. He stated, "Our customers require reliable methods to gauge their security maturity and build trust in their supply chains,” underscoring the significance of ISA/IEC 62443 and ISASecure as essential tools in achieving actionable security requirements and assessments.
Collaborative Efforts for Greater Adoption
Sword's involvement in ISAGCA will enable it to work collaboratively with renowned industry leaders to promote the widespread adoption and implementation of the ISA/IEC 62443 standards framework. This collaboration will not only enhance awareness but will also shape the guidelines that organizations need to establish robust cybersecurity measures.
Additionally, within the ISASecure initiative, Sword plans to advocate for best practices concerning secure development processes and maintain certification pathways. This effort aims to empower suppliers and end-users alike, by fostering a culture of continuous improvement and assurance in cybersecurity practices.
A Framework for Future Security
The ISA/IEC 62443 series serves as a comprehensive blueprint which encompasses the necessary elements—people, processes, and technologies—required to secure industrial automation ecosystems. Complementing this, ISASecure offers certification for products, systems, and development methodologies, which effectively assures asset owners and integrators of the security robustness of their solutions.
As Sword embarks on this new journey with ISAGCA and ISASecure, it anticipates playing a pivotal role in accelerating the adoption of cybersecurity standards across various sectors. This strategic partnership is expected to yield tangible benefits, ultimately leading to a more resilient industrial landscape that can better withstand emerging cyber threats.
Conclusion
The partnership between Sword and ISA not only highlights the pressing need for stringent cybersecurity measures in industrial sectors but also underscores the efficacy of collaborative efforts in navigating the complexities of operational technology cybersecurity. As both organizations work toward enhancing capabilities and fostering a secure environment, the journey towards achieving comprehensive cybersecurity in automation is set to witness substantial advancements.
For more information about the ISA Global Cybersecurity Alliance and ISASecure, please visit ISAGCA and ISASecure.
Topics Business Technology）
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