Cybersecurity Consultancy – Integration with Functional Safety
In today world, cybersecurity is a topic widely recognized, with the imperative need for a secure ecosystem. Systems integrated into functional safety demand even greater attention compared to other areas, asfailures due to cyberattacks can have severe consequences.
Functional safety systems are built using established practices, processes, and architectures that can help to adress the cybersecurity-by-design concept. However, safety and security often have concurrent goals, such as the need for regular software updates (fast process) versus the need for safety approval (time-consuming process). From a normative perspective, while functional safety is based on the IEC 61508 series, cybersecurity for products is adressed by standards like the IEC 62443. Specifically for products, standards like IEC 62443-4-1, IEC 62443-4-2, and IEC 62443-3-3 play a significant role.
New regulations, such as the new Machinery Regulation and the upcoming Cyber Resilience Act, play vital roles in product development and set high standards, particularly for small and medium enterprises.
Integrating Cybersecurity in Your Functional Safety Environment
Integrating cybersecurity into functional safety requires a holistic approach, which includes conducting comprehensive risk assessments that encompass both safety and security aspects. This integrated risk analysis forms the foundation for designing systems that are resilient against cyber threats while maintaining functional safety standards.
Furthermore, fostering a culture of continuous learning and adaptation is crucial. Training employees to be vigilant against cyber threats, promoting a proactive approach to software updates, and encouraging collaboration between safety and security teams can significantly enhance the integration process.
Leveraging Synergies Between Security and Safety
Numerous sinergies can be found between security and safety. The security-by-design approach is based on a systematic development process, forming the foundation for any functional safety standard. For example, IEC 62443-4-1 outlines product development requirements. Many aspects, such as requirements management and configuration management, align closely with those considered in IEC61508. To ensure success, it is advisable not to reinvent the wheel.
Implementing New Cybersecurity Standards
Incorporating new cybersecurity standards like IEC 62443 into your development can be a difficult challenge. Nevertheless, we firmly believe that adapting these cybersecurity requirements to your development structure, reusing functional safety knowledge where possible, and striking the right balance between standards conformity and practical implementation are the keys to a successful project.
How We Can Help You
With a proven track record, we excel in integrating cybersecurity aspects in functional safety developments. We offer guidance through the IEC 62443 series, ensuring the right implementation for your company and products.
We provide support for your project in the following areas:
- Workshop/Training about IEC 62443
- Consultation on security-by-design processes (IEC 62443-4-1)
- Consultation on required security measures (IEC 62443-4-2 and state of the art)
- Consultation on conformity assessement (critical products as defined by, for example, the CRA)
Ready to integrate Functional Safety into your project?
Contact us now, and together, we will discover the perfect service for your needs.