EC: FL mGuard RS2000 and RS4000
Network Integration - Ethernet hardware: The new mGuard security devices feature improved hardware and easier configuration options, making it easier to support customers and add IT and security functions to an industrial network, even in a harsh environment. This is a Control Engineering 2013 Engineers' Choice Awards Honorable Mention.
The new mGuard line has improved hardware and configuration options. Like the original mGuard security devices, the new RS2000 and RS4000 variants provide all-in-one firewall, routing and virtual private network (VPN) capabilities in an industrial-rated package. This enables a machine builder, utility owner, or end user to provide network security, remote connectivity and other IT functions to the industrial network.
The RS2000 and RS4000 have metal housing and can operate between -20 C and +60 C, compared with 0 C to 55 C for the original RS variants. The RS4000 is currently awaiting UL Class I, Div. 2 approval, which will make it suitable for hazardous location environments, such as the oil and gas industry. The integrated SD card reader makes managing configurations much easier. Users can save a configuration on an SD card inserted in one mGuard. To use the same settings on another mGuard device, they can insert that card into a new mGuard. Even if the SD card is removed, the mGuard settings will remain, until reconfigured. The new hardware also features enhanced diagnostic and status information via LED and a 24 V output triggered on successful VPN initiation.
The RS2000 has a limited firewall ("accept all" or "drop all" options for incoming and outgoing traffic). The RS4000’s security features include a full stateful inspection firewall able to filter traffic on Layers 2 through 4, a user-based firewall, CIFS Integrity Monitoring, redundancy options and other advanced features. The RS4000 VPN and RS4000 can be upgraded to 250 tunnels via a separately sold license. The RS2000 can support two tunnels. The security functions bring much needed protection to the industrial network, preventing unwanted or unnecessary traffic from affecting critical control and automation devices. The VPN provides an easy and cost-effective means for providing support and communication to remote equipment.
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