What is IEC 62443?
IEC 62443 is an international series of standards developed for the Cybersecurity of industrial automation and control systems (IACS). The standard is intended to improve security in environments where Operational Technology (OT) plays a role, such as factories, power plants, and infrastructure installations.
This standard was developed by the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) in collaboration with ISA (International Society of Automation).
Purpose of IEC 62443
The standard provides guidelines and requirements for:
- Securing industrial networks and systems against cyber threats;
- Designing, integrating and maintaining secure industrial automation systems;
- Collaboration between manufacturers, integrators and end users.
Structure of the Standard
IEC 62443 is divided into four main sections (series):
| Series | Description |
|---|---|
| IEC 62443-1-x | Terminology, concepts and models – fundamental concepts and architecture. |
| IEC 62443-2-x | Policies and procedures – management of Cybersecurity and risk assessment. |
| IEC 62443-3-x | System requirements – technical security and network architecture. |
| IEC 62443-4-x | Components – requirements for hardware/software of devices such as PLCs, RTUs. |
Key Concepts
- Defense in Depth: Multiple layers of security to protect systems.
- Zone & Conduit: Segmentation of networks into security zones and the connections between them.
- Security Levels (SL): Four security levels, from SL 1 (basic protection) to SL 4 (highly sophisticated threats).
- Security by Design: Cybersecurity is taken into account from the start of system design.
Who is IEC 62443 for?
- End users (such as factories or utility companies)
- System integrators (who design and build systems)
- Component vendors (such as suppliers of PLCs or HMIs)
- Administrators and IT/OT teams (who maintain and secure systems)
Why is it important?
- Protects critical infrastructure from cyberattacks;
- Helps with compliance with laws and regulations (such as NIS2 in Europe);
- Creates a common language and structure for OT Security worldwide;
- Increases trust between vendors, integrators and operators.