Exclusive: Modules boost security

Scalance S family of industrial Ethernet security modules from Siemens Energy & Automation Inc. offers the functionality and protection of a firewall and virtual private network (VPN), allowing only real-time, authenticated communication between authorized devices within the automation network.

Three models of Scalance S security modules from Siemens Energy & Automation offer firewall and virtual private network (VPN) functionality and protection.

Scalance S family of industrial Ethernet security modules from Siemens Energy & Automation Inc. offers the functionality and protection of a firewall and virtual private network (VPN), allowing only real-time, authenticated communication between authorized devices within the automation network. A software security client is also offered to set up IPsec-based VPN connections from a desktop or laptop.

Each year industrial plants lose tens of billions of dollars from network security breaches, points out Siemens E&A. Its new technology, it says, is intended to protect the plant floor from data manipulation, espionage, unauthorized access, and automated intrusions. Says Raj Rajani, Scalance product marketing manager, “The Scalance S security modules physically and electronically separate the automation cell from the enterprise, making automation network intrusions impossible.”

Available for new and existing industrial networks, Scalance S security modules come in three models that offer varying levels of functionality to meet any automation cell security need. Easy to install, the modules isolate the automation network from the rest of the enterprise. Settings may be saved on the C-Plug (memory module) to reduce maintenance costs.

Advanced Scalance S613 protects up to 64 devices and offers 127 VPN tunnels simultaneously. Designed to survive harsh plant environments, this module offers an extended temperature range from -4 to 158 °F (-20 to 70 °C). Standard Scalance S612 protects up to 32 devices in the internal network and offers up to 64 VPN tunnels simultaneously. Basic Scalance S602 provides firewall protection that may be used as an alternative to VPN tunnels with flexible access control. In addition to bridge mode, this module may also be operated in router mode to connect separate IP subnets.

“As production and office networks continue to merge, the risk of viruses and attacks at the plant floor will increase,” adds Rajani. “The Scalance S family of industrial Ethernet security modules provides the protection plants need when working with Ethernet technology at the automation level.”

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Siemens Energy & Automation