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Nozomi Networks and Schneider Electric's Breakthrough

In a significant advancement for industrial cybersecurity, Nozomi Networks Inc., known for its expertise in operational technology (OT), the Internet of Things (IoT), and cyber-physical systems (CPS) security, has partnered with Schneider Electric, a leading figure in energy management and automation. They have officially introduced the very first security sensor designed to be embedded within remote terminal units (RTUs), particularly using the Schneider SCADAPack 47xi Smart RTUs.

This pioneering deployment allows security and operational teams to gain unprecedented insights into the control device layer of their industrial automation systems, as well as the field assets they manage. This sophisticated capability enables users to analyze potential threats and counteract malicious activity without affecting current resources or disrupting essential networks.

According to Jay Abdallah, the Vice President of Cybersecurity Solutions and Services at Schneider Electric, “With the increasing cyber threats targeting crucial energy resources, our collaboration with Nozomi Networks empowers enhanced defenses in critical infrastructures.” Abiding by this strategic partnership, the Nozomi Arc Embedded within Schneider's RTUs transforms these remote terminal units into secure assets, endowing operators with the necessary visibility to tackle threats proactively.

Andrea Carcano, Co-founder and Chief Product Officer of Nozomi Networks, expressed the value of the collaboration, stating, “For over eight years, we have teamed up with Schneider to innovate better security solutions for energy management systems globally. The Arc Embedded feature now extends protective measures all the way through industrial control systems to the far reaches of field assets, safeguarding them from often-overlooked risks.”

Understanding Remote Terminal Units (RTUs)

RTUs serve as vital industrial devices responsible for collecting and transmitting data from various sensors and actuators located in remote areas, such as rural water pumping stations and electrical substations situated in rugged terrains. They function as the intermediary between field equipment and central control systems, facilitating real-time monitoring and management of industrial processes. Widely adopted across the oil and gas industry, as well as other critical sectors, Schneider Electric's SCADAPack 47xi Smart RTUs provide a budget-friendly and secure solution, elevating its appeal specifically designed for RTU applications.

The recent integration of Nozomi Arc Embedded into Schneider RTUs provides a revolutionary feature set, equipping security and operational teams with visibility into crucial data, including:

• - RTU Endpoint Status Updates: Insight into hardware/software inventory, vulnerability assessments, and resource utilization.
• - Level 0 Visibility: Arc Embedded can extract process variable data directly from the RTU, offering exceptional visibility into physical processes and device states without the need for external polling protocols.
• - Threat and Anomaly Detection: The system is capable of identifying suspicious behaviors such as USB connection changes, manipulation of control logic, firmware updates, and other interventions.

The Arc Embedded solution transforms the existing industrial control mechanisms into robust, secure assets. It provides a fully integrated security layer from an external vendor to bolster comprehensive protection for ongoing operational systems.

Availability and Future Implications

Arc Embedded is currently available for Schneider SCADAPack 47xi Smart RTUs through a subscription model, which can be procured from Schneider Electric, Nozomi Networks, or their extensive global network of channel partners. The introduction of this innovative product is expected to enhance cybersecurity measures across various industries, serving as a game-changer for asset management and operational efficiency.

As industries continue facing evolving cyber threats, the collaboration between Nozomi Networks and Schneider Electric underscores a commitment to securing vital infrastructures worldwide. Their innovative approach ensures that critical energy and resource management operations are well-protected against current and future cyber challenges.

For more details, interested parties are encouraged to read the Solution Brief for Nozomi Arc Embedded for Schneider Electric SCADAPack 47xi RTUs.