IoT security fundamentals

Table of contents

1. The importance of the IoT
2. The security risks at a glance
3. Security measures for IoT security
4. Guidelines for IoT systems
5. IoT security: Things to be aware of
6. Quality products for IoT security

The importance of the IoT

The Internet of Things (IoT) has revolutionized the way we live and work. From smart home appliances to connected industrial machines to smart medical and healthcare gadgets, IoT devices collect and share data in real time to make our lives and work more efficient, convenient and informed.

According to expert estimates, the number of IoT devices will rise to over 75 billion by 2025. The increasing networking of devices and systems offers immense opportunities – also for industry.

IoT applications are, for example, a basic prerequisite for Industrie 4.0 automation processes, but they also play important roles in the areas of productivity enhancement, production control, maintenance, logistics and mobility. In manufacturing, the smart factory concept specifically relies on IoT or Industrial Internet of Things solutions to increase efficiency and adapt production or maintenance processes. High-performance sensors and actuators provide the necessary data or data exchange.

Experts predict that the trend toward Industry 4.0 could massively increase the number of attack vectors in industrial scenarios. Reason enough to take security precautions.

The security risks at a glance

• Lack of security configurations and IoT botnet attacks: Many IoT devices have been exposed to so-called botnet attacks in the past. In this case, the attacker penetrates the system via an unprotected port. IoT botnets often aim to overload network communications and subsequently disable service. Detecting IoT botnets is currently still very difficult.
• Insecure interfaces and services: Many IoT devices provide services and interfaces (such as web servers or cloud connections) that are potential points of attack. If these services and interfaces are not sufficiently protected, attackers can use them to access the device or the network.
• Lack of software and firmware updates: IoT devices often do not receive regular software and firmware updates. This means that known security vulnerabilities are often not closed, making them attractive targets for attackers.

Needless to say, security in the IoT is a complex and urgent problem. Careful planning and implementation of security measures are therefore required at all levels – from device design to network security and data protection.

Security measures for IoT security

IoT security is essential, especially for those applications that send or receive sensitive data. To keep in mind: Some devices act as gateways to computers, servers or other entities on the same network.

Given the growing importance of IoT and its security risks, it is important to implement comprehensive strategies and solutions to ensure IoT security.

What are the measures for IoT security?

• Prioritize IoT security and network security
• Implement data encryption and data protection measures
• Back up data on a regular basis
• Implement various monitoring tools to monitor the network
• Network segmentation or isolation of IoT devices within your own network
• Use virtual private networks (VPNs)
• Limiting connectivity to core functions only
• Regularly updating firmware to address security vulnerabilities.

These strategies and solutions guarantee that IoT devices and networks can be used securely without compromising operations or sensitive data. Significantly, IoT security measures require continuous attention and adaptation, as the IoT security threat landscape is constantly evolving.

Guidelines for IoT systems

GE, Microsoft and Dell EMC, along with the Industrial Internet Consortium, have taken it upon themselves to provide a guide of data protection best practices for IoT systems. This covers topics such as implementing security controls or conducting security audits and how to respond in the event of data leaks.

Other guidelines that are helpful in this context include:

• Industrial Internet Reference Architecture (IIRA)
• Industrial Internet Security Framework (IISF)
• National Cybersecurity Center of Excellence (NCCoE)
• National Institutes of Standards and Technology (NIST) report “Securing the Industrial Internet of Things”

IoT security: Things to be aware of

The rapid development and implementation of the Internet of Things offer numerous advantages and opportunities. At the same time, however, it also brings along new challenges and risks, especially with regard to data security and data protection. In this respect, it is essential that companies implementing IoT technologies take appropriate security measures.

A look into the future makes it clear that the importance of the IoT will continue to grow – and security requirements will increase accordingly, because: More and more devices and systems will be networked and generate and process huge amounts of data. Continuous efforts to improve IoT security are already essential in this context.

Are you interested in IoT systems and developments in the field of Industry 4.0? Or do you want to find out about current trends in this area? In the magazine article “Internet of Things & Industrie 4.0: Trends 2023” we provide information about innovations. Read it now!

High-quality and high-performance components are essential for the smooth running of IoT applications and the safe use of IoT devices. As a leading supplier of electronic components and systems, Bürklin Elektronik is a major player in the field of IoT equipment. Bürklin offers sensors, actuators, IoT bluething boards as well as the matching accessories – reliability, robustness and high performance are the hallmarks of these components.

If you have any questions about IoT or IoT security: The team at Bürklin Elektronik will be happy to address your concerns. Take advantage of the advice from our experts and find out about the latest models in the field of electromechanics or IT and PC technology! We will be happy to assist you.