How to minimize risks in industrial network security and to comply with the European Union Cyber Resilience Act (CRA)

Cybersecurity in industrial automation is no longer optional – it’s essential. As Industry 4.0 advances, connected systems face growing risks from cyberattacks and evolving regulations. This article explores how Festo ensures compliance and reliability in cybersecurity and product security – and why the European Union’s Cyber Resilience Act (CRA) is significant for industrial network security.

Key Regulations and Standards Shaping OT Security Include:

• Cyber Resilience Act (CRA): Sets higher EU-wide security requirements for products with digital elements, especially connected devices.
• EU Machinery Regulation (EU) 2023/1230, applying from January 20, 2027, requires products to be protected against corruption and manipulation.
• EU NIS2 Directive (EU) 2022/2555, applying from Oct 18, 2024, sets higher cybersecurity requirements for essential and important entities.
• NIST SP 800-82: U.S. guide with best practices for OT architectures, threat mitigation, and response.
• A Software Bill of Materials (SBOM) listing all libraries and dependencies in a software product to improve transparency and security.
• IEC 62443: International standard for industrial control system security, from design to monitoring.
• ISA/IEC 61511: Addresses safety instrumented systems where safety and cybersecurity intersect.

What Are Industrial Control Systems (ICS) and Why Are They Critical for Cybersecurity?

Industrial Control Systems (ICS) are hardware and software solutions that monitor, control, and automate processes across industries such as manufacturing, energy, water treatment, and transportation. Key components include SCADA systems for remote oversight, Distributed Control Systems (DCS) for centralized plant control, PLCs for specific factory tasks, and HMIs that let operators visualize and manage processes. Beyond ensuring safe and efficient operations, ICS are critical for defending against cyberattacks that can disrupt essential infrastructure. The Cyber Resilience Act (CRA) highlights this urgency, and Festo will ensure product security and support customers with compliant and reliable automation solutions.

Your Step-by-Step Cybersecurity Compliance Checklist for the CRA

☑ Understand how the CRA affects machines, operations, and procurement.

☑ Confirm your suppliers’ CRA readiness now – do not wait until 2027.

☑ Use Festo’s advisories, statements, and security documentation for planning.

☑ Stay aligned with IEC 62443 and CRA requirements to avoid compliance risks.

☑ Rely on Festo as your trusted partner in product security.