We’re so close to 2025, y’all. That said, teams who are (or will be) utilizing a “Zero Trust” security model within their operations are on a sure-fire path to keeping essential Internet of Things (IoT) and Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) ecosystems protected.
Here’s why:
The proliferation of IoT/IIoT devices today is highly notable; one forecast we covered earlier this year expects the global IoT market to earn “$1.5 trillion by 2029,” and that’s just a shaving of the grander iceberg. Given the waves of real-time data that interconnected devices and systems relay, bad actors are more increasingly likely to seize the moment and infiltrate networks in order to gain access to — and siphon away — sensitive data.
But with robust zero trust practices actively in place:
- No single user or device is inherently “trusted” off the rip, thereby demanding identity verification and authorization before granting access to network resources.
- IIoT-centric networks can be divided into smaller, isolated segments — microsegmentation — which decreases the overall attack surface and limits lateral movement of attackers in case of a threatening breach.
- Critical infrastructure (e.g. of smart factories, manufacturing plants, fleet transportation, etc.) is better shielded from undue operational disruption, financial losses, and even physical harm to workers.
- Network access control (NAC) integrations can be properly established, further unifying security management systems as data and other resources are transmitted. (i.e. enhanced visibility and stronger policy reinforcement potential, as well; read here)
- Strict regulatory and compliance requirements for data security and privacy can be better met.
And trust us, there’s even more to glean from zero trust when it’s in place for IoT/IIoT developments.
That’s why we’re excited about an upcoming session at the Industrial IoT Conference, which will be taking place from February 11-13, 2025, at the Broward County Convention Center in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. The session in question is titled “Implementing Zero Trust to Reduce Security Risk,” and the panel there will dissect zero trust strategies and make cases for why they’re compelling when it comes to blocking vulnerabilities/exploits and keeping connected devices, equipment, and sensors protected.
“Ransomware, digital espionage, and cyber terrorism all point to the need for well-monitored systems and hardened security protocols in IIoT,” as one Industrial IoT Conference representative added.
We encourage you to join us! The aforementioned session will be taking place on Tuesday, February 11, 2025, from 11:00-11:45 AM. Consider registering here.
The Industrial IoT Conference is part of IoT Evolution Expo 2025 and the #TECHSUPERSHOW experience. Learn more here.
Edited by
Greg Tavarez
